Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have planned several family-friendly activities in celebration of “National Kids to Parks Day” on May 21. Sponsored by the National Park Trust, the celebration encourages children to explore public lands. In Georgia, the parks are offering paddle trips, archery classes, field day games, colonial toys and more. Many events are free and parking is $5. Families can stay overnight in the parks’ campgrounds, cabins and yurts — turning their outing into a mini-vacation.

Kids to Parks Day at Chattahoochee Bend

Saturday, May 21, 2016 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Chattahoochee Bend State Park – Newnan, GA

This day is packed full of fun and educational activities for kids. Bring lunch, snacks, and water, and be prepared for the outdoors. 10 a.m. starts a guided nature hike; 1 p.m. is nature crafting; 3:30 p.m. is creative play with the Imagination Playground. Pre-register for each program in advance. $5 per program. $5 parking. 770-254-7271.

Creature Feature

Saturday, May 21, 2016 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA

Can turtles leave their shells? How many types of venomous snakes live in Georgia? Are salamanders reptiles? Learn the answers to all of these questions and more as a Panola Mountain Ranger introduces you to our reptilian residents in this live animal show. Meet in the Nature Center. Space is limited, so please call to register in advance. $2 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

A map of more than 60 state parks and historic sites can be found at www.GaStateParks.org, and the list of events is on www.GaStateParks.org/kidstoparks. Participants are encouraged to share their photos on Instagram with hashtags #gastateparks and #kidstoparks, and to post their favorite moments to the Georgia State Parks Facebook page (www.facebook.com/georgiastateparks).

For more information on any of these great events happening around Atlanta, visit www.GaStateParks.org/events.