Hi there, Adventure Friends!

Let’s start with some trivia

Which NFL Hall of Fame cornerback hails from Folkston?

• A) Deion Sanders

• B) Champ Bailey

• C) Darrell Green

• D) Rod Woodson

Answer after the article (at the end of the text!)

Answer: B) Champ Bailey

I’m your guide to unforgettable family-friendly adventures. If you’re looking for a

destination that blends outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and a touch of history, let

me introduce you to Folkston, Georgia! Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, this

little town is a dream come true for families who love nature, wildlife, and wellness-

friendly escapes.

Let’s dive in and discover why Folkston deserves a spot on your travel list!

Why Folkston?

Folkston may be small, but it’s packed with big experiences. Here’s why you and your

family will love it:

✅ Gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp – One of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the U.S.
✅ Outdoor Adventures Galore – Hiking, paddling, and wildlife spotting for all ages.
✅ Small-Town Hospitality – A friendly atmosphere where locals treat you like family.
✅ Stress-Free Travel – No big-city crowds, just peaceful surroundings and fresh air.

If you love nature, history, and a little bit of railroad magic, Folkston has it all! 🚂🌿

Top Things to Do in Folkston

1. Explore the Okefenokee Swamp 🐊

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is the crown jewel of Folkston. Covering nearly

700 square miles, this swamp is a natural wonderland filled with alligators, birds, and

endless water trails.

🔹 Paddle Through the Swamp – Rent a kayak or canoe and glide through cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
🔹 Take a Boat Tour – A guided ride lets you see the wildlife up close (without getting your feet wet!).
🔹 Hike the Boardwalk – The Chesser Island Boardwalk is a must-do, leading to a stunning observation tower with panoramic views.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars! The birdwatching here is next level. 🦅 Just watch your

bags—they’re curious and love to explore your stuff, too.

2. Visit the Folkston Funnel 🚂

Train lovers, get ready! Folkston is famous for the "Folkston Funnel," one of the best

places in the U.S. to watch trains.

🚄 Over 60 trains pass through town every day!
📸 There’s a railfan viewing platform with comfy seats and speakers to hear train radio chatter.
🎈 Kids love waving at the engineers—sometimes they even honk back!

Even if you’re not a train enthusiast, there’s something mesmerizing about watching these

giant locomotives roll through town.

3. Take a Step Back in Time at the Chesser Homestead 🏡

Want a glimpse into old-fashioned life in Georgia? Head to the Chesser Homestead, a

beautifully preserved farmstead from the early 1900s.

🌿 See how families lived off the land—without electricity or modern conveniences.
🍲 Learn about traditional cooking and farming techniques.
📖 Listen to stories about the hardy pioneers who made their home here.

It’s a fun history lesson in real life, and kids will love exploring the rustic wooden

buildings and imagining life in the old days.

4. Hike the Nature Trails 🚶‍♂️🌿

If you love staying active on vacation, Folkston has plenty of beautiful hiking trails to

explore.

🥾 Upland Discovery Trail – A short, family-friendly walk with shady paths and wildflowers.
🌳 Suwannee Canal Recreation Area – Great for spotting deer, turtles, and (if you’re lucky) river otters!
🦋 Butterfly Garden Trail – Perfect for little explorers who love colorful critters.

Walking through these peaceful trails is like hitting the reset button—a perfect way to

unwind and connect with nature.

5. Savor Local Eats & Healthy Treats 🍴

After a day of adventuring, it’s time to refuel with some delicious local food. Folkston

may be small, but it has some big flavors to offer!

🥗 Okefenokee Restaurant – Try their famous catfish or a fresh garden salad with local veggies.
🍳 Whistlin’ Dixie Café – A cozy spot with hearty, home-cooked meals (and fantastic biscuits!).
🍓 Local Farm Stands – Pick up fresh fruits, honey, and homemade jams from roadside markets.

If you’re like me and love eating fresh, local, and wholesome, Folkston won’t disappoint!

Stay Active & Rejuvenate 🌞

Even on vacation, it’s important to keep moving and stay balanced. Folkston makes it

easy with:

🧘 Yoga in the Park – Local instructors sometimes offer outdoor sessions under the shade of giant oak trees.
🚲 Biking Around Town – The roads here are quiet, perfect for family bike rides.
💦 Swimming & Fishing – Nearby lakes and rivers are great for a cool-down dip or a fun fishing session.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to take a deep breath of that fresh Georgia air—it’s like therapy for

the soul!

Why Folkston is Perfect for a Family Getaway

At the end of the day, Folkston is special because it offers a refreshing break from the

ordinary.

✔ Easy, Stress-Free Travel – No hectic crowds or long lines, just pure relaxation.
✔ Balance of Adventure & Wellness – Active fun mixed with peaceful downtime.
✔ Authentic & Memorable – A small-town experience filled with heart and history.

Whether you’re paddling through mystical swamps, waving at thundering trains, or

hiking under towering pines, Folkston gives you something special: time to slow

down, explore, and reconnect as a family.

Pack Your Bags—Folkston Awaits! 🎒

So what are you waiting for? Grab your backpack, your adventurous spirit, and your

favorite people, and come see what makes Folkston, Georgia, such a hidden treasure.

💚 Stay curious, stay active, and stay healthy, my friends!

Your Travel Buddy🌟

P.S. Don’t forget bug spray, comfy shoes, and a camera—Folkston’s beauty deserves to be captured! 📸🚶‍♂️

P.P.S. Answer: B) Champ Bailey