The National Park Service is offering free admission to national parks and monuments across the country April 16-24 in celebration of its centennial. All 11 national parks around Georgia will be participating in the event. Read about free hikes and festivals in Georgia's national parks for more ways to participate in this special occasion.
That week would be an excellent time to visit Fort Pulaski National Monument (912-786-5787) on Cockspur Island near Savannah. Regular admission to the monument costs visitors $7 per person over the age of 16. Fort Pulaski provides a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as indoor exhibits for history buffs.
The park has seven hiking and biking trails ranging from a quarter-mile walk to a 13-mile hiker/biker trail. Some trails are equipped with exercise stations and lead visitors to islands, lighthouses and along historical pathways, such as the Central of Georgia Railway. Picnic areas are scattered across the park for visitors to enjoy a meal while viewing the coastal scenery. You may even see a bald eagle, peregrine falcon, loggerhead sea turtle or manatee while exploring the island. Pets are permitted on the trails.
Kayaking and fishing along the Savannah River are popular activities, as well. You can acquire a fishing license from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and catch bass, bluegill and catfish in the area.
The visitor center includes a bookstore and museum. There are several showings of the short educational film, "The Battle for Fort Pulaski," which details the history of the fort and its purpose during the Civil War.
Guided fort tours are available seven days a week, and the park service offers a demonstration of historical weapons on Saturdays.
The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The bridge to Cockspur Island closes at 5:15 p.m.
Three other national parks offering free admission for that week are nearby, including the Cumberland Island National Seashore, Fort Sumter National Monument and Fort Frederica National Monument.
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