SEE THE WORLD ON FILM Visit a Georgia Park for Valentine’s Day

By Kathy Dean

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has planned events throughout the state that are perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration. There are date nights, hikes and more that offer romance and adventure. Visit gastateparks.org for more events and updated information.

Valentine’s Dinner and Dance

The drive to Fort McAllister State Park will be well worth it for this special evening. It starts with a candlelit dinner in a beautiful, historic setting. After the meal, you’ll have the opportunity to share period music, dancing and fireside chats with the park’s historical interpreters.

When: Saturday, Feb. 9, 6-8 p.m. Where: Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill 31324

Cost: $50 per person, $5 for parking. More info: Reservations are required; call (912) 727-2339.

Astronomy Night with Your Love

Look to the stars at Tallulah Gorge State Park for a perfect Valentine’s Night. Everyone meets in front of the Interpretive Center for an opportunity to look through the telescope and learn about the sky. This program does depend on the weather.

When: Thursday, Feb. 14, 6:30-8 p.m. Where: Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls 30573

Cost: Admission is $5, $5 for parking. More info: Call (706) 754-7981 for details.

Valentine’s Day Couples Hike on Panola Mountain

Enjoy a guided hike through Panola Mountain’s conservation area. You’ll watch the sun set over downtown Atlanta and have an opportunity to have your photo taken. Finish up with some chocolate-covered-strawberryinspired s’mores roasted over the campfire. Be sure to bring water, a flashlight and sturdy shoes!

If you miss out on the special Valentine’s Day Hike, sign up for one of the Moonlight Mountain Hikes, offered on Saturdays, Feb. 16 and March 23.

When: Saturday, Feb. 9, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Panola Mountain State Park, 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge 30281

Cost: Admission is $15, $5 for parking. More info: Space is limited; call (770) 389-7801 to reserve a place.

Ole Fashion Date Night on the Park

What’s more romantic than Mistletoe… State Park? In honor of Valentine’s Day, the park is offering a date night at the campground. Food will be prepared on a cast-iron skillet and there’ll even be homemade hot cocoa at the end of the program.

When: Friday, Feb. 15, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Mistletoe State Park, 3725 Mistletoe Road, Appling 30802

Cost: $20 per couple, plus $5 parking. More info: Save your spot by calling (706) 541-0321.

Sunset Boat Tour of the Swamp

Maybe the thought of a swamp doesn’t ooze romance, but you may be surprised as you relax on Billy’s Lake to watch an Okefenokee sunset. The lake is surrounded by wildlife — sandhill cranes and barred owls, even alligators — and you can glimpse them before the sun drops below the horizon. The boat tour is also offered on Saturdays, March 16 and April 13.

When: Saturday, Feb. 16, 5:30-7 p.m.

Where: Stephen C. Foster State Park, 17515 Highway 177, Fargo 391631

Cost: $15 to $20, plus $5 parking. More info: To learn more, call (912) 637-5274.