June is recognized in the US as Great Outdoors Month. Combined with the end of school and warmer weather, that makes it the perfect time to plan some outdoor recreation and fun for the whole family.
What originally began as Great Outdoors Week in 1998 was expanded to Great Outdoors month in 2019, just as the nation sought a break from the original restrictions made necessary by the COVID pandemic. Today, both the federal government and 30 states recognize June as Great Outdoors month.
But what can you and your family do to enjoy the Great Outdoors in Cobb County during this month of celebration? Here are four free -- or almost free -- Cobb County outings that can be enjoyed by the whole family:
Climb a Mountain. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers a plethora of outdoor options. The most popular is climbing to the peak, where you'll enjoy great views of Atlanta and the northern mountains. But you also can walk through the woods and dip your toes in a creek on other trails. Parking is $5 per day, so it's "almost" free.
Bike Paved or Off-Road Trails. Bicycle riders can enjoy the Silver Comet Trail, which follows an abandoned railroad route in West Cobb. In Marietta, the Mountain-to-River trail starts downtown, and heads north to Town Center Mall, ending at Bells Ferry Road. Or, if off-road mountain biking is more your speed, check out the 30+ miles of wooded trails at Allatoona Creek Park. There's no charge or parking fees at most of these sites.
Splash the Day Away. Whether you want to swim or splash, there's a low-cost option for you in Cobb County. The Seven Springs Water Park features two water slides, a lazy river and a splash pad area with zero depth entry. And Sewell Park Pool offers a traditional outdoor swimming pool option. Plus, the Splash Pad at Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw is another great family option featuring a fountain spray, ground geyser, jet stream, magic mist and multiple sea silhouettes. All charge small admission fees.
Rule the Waves and Beach. Whether you prefer paddling a stand-up board, canoe or kayak, all are options on the "no-motors-allowed" Lake Acworth. And, on weekends, you can rent most right at Acworth Beach. If you prefer more power on the water, gas-powered engines are allowed on Lake Allatoona. Of course, fishing is great on these lakes, too. You'll pay parking fees to access most parks, and any equipment rental charges.
More on Local Hiking
If you enjoy a good hike, check out these other locations near Cobb County:
Great Dam Views at Cooper's Furnace
The View from Panoramic Pine Mountain
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