What's the first thing that comes to mind? Heat.
Yep, for those college students who have left their tiny dorms to head back home to the southern parts of Georgia, one of the first thing that comes to mind is the rising temps and swarms of gnats and mosquitoes. But with those set aside, South Georgia has quite a few attractions for the bored college student at home for the summer.
The first of these summer suggestions is the classic pool day. That's right, find some time to soak up the rays and lay out with your closest friends for a day on the pool or the lake. South Georgia is home to many lakes, rivers, and creeks as well as a variety of natural springs located just across the Georgia-Florida line. Many springs, such as Blue Springs located in Madison Blue Springs State Park, offer a relaxing take on a summer day spent outside.
Not feeling a day spent on the water? That's OK! South Georgia also boasts a variety of state parks, including the Okefenokee Swamp. 684 square miles of land stretching across the Georgia-Florida line and several activities including tours and kayaking amounts to a quick day trip for any student in the surrounding area.
If the outdoors is your style, but you're not feeling the water or a state park, perhaps a trip down to Florida will do the trick. For those situated a short distance from the Georgia-Florida line, an entirely new set of options are present for you. One of which is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. If a day of exploring various plants and animals sounds like fun to you, go ahead and check it out! Those who are closer to Florida are also aware of the many opportunities for day trips to the beach! Load up a cooler and your closest friends to hit the road for a day of sun and sand.
Many Southerners know that even though there is lots to do in the summer, many plans can be ruined by the rising temperatures and heat that South Georgia is known for. So if the weather prevents any of your outdoor plans, stay inside and try out a few new hobbies! Take some time to finally try one of those recipes you found on Facebook, or try out a new activity such as yoga or even check out that new movie you finally have time to see, now that school is over.
Summer in the South can be brutal, but hopefully these suggestions offer a few ideas for those summer days when boredom strikes. If nothing else, try to set some time aside to hang out with the friends and family that have been dying to see you while you've been away at school for all these months.
