Enjoy These 7 Outdoor Activities in Columbus, GA
From whitewater rafting and hiking to canyon exploring and camping, there's plenty of great ways to have fun in West Georgia.
You don’t have to venture far to find fun-filled outdoor activities in Columbus, GA. From whitewater rafting down the Chattahoochee to exploring a canyon (yes, a canyon!), get ready to have plenty of great adventures in West Georgia.
In This Article
1. Dragonfly Trail
The Dragonfly is a network of asphalt trails that begins at the 14th Street Pedestrian Bridge and ends at Psalmond Road. Trail highlights include the RiverWalk, Fall Line Trace and several great views of the Chattahoochee River.
2. RushSouth Whitewater Park
Billed as “The South’s Premier Whitewater Park,” RushSouth features low-flow rafting and kayaking in the morning and then high-flow rapids in the afternoon. Other park attractions include ziplining, guided fly fishing, splash pads and an 18-hole disc golf course.
3. Columbus Botanical Garden
The popular garden spot has a walking trail where guests can view acres of growing herbs, vegetables, roses and other flowers. The garden often hosts events and horticulture seminars.
4. Standing Boy Creek State Park
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the state park lies on the shores of Lake Oliver and offers activities including swimming, boating, hiking and hunting. The park is also recognized for having the best mountain bike trails in West Central Georgia.
5. Callaway Resort & Gardens
This family getaway in Pine Mountain has 2,500 acres of award-winning gardens and forests. Attractions include overnight accommodations, restaurants, golf courses, a lakeside beach and miles of trails. Guests can also visit the Discovery Center and Butterfly Center, located on-site.
6. Providence Canyon State Park
The state park is known for Providence Canyon, sometimes called “Little Grand Canyon” and considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia. This rustic getaway has six backcountry campsites, three pioneer campsites and an abandoned homestead with a dozen 1950s-era automobiles.
7. Pine Mountain Trail
Backpackers can explore 23 miles of trailway that feature hardwood trees, rock climbs, mountain streams and 14 backcountry campsites. One of the most popular pathways is a 6.7-mile Wolf Den Loop that travels past beaver dams, Hogback Mountain and scenic waterfalls.
Get to Know Columbus
Want to learn more about living and working in Columbus, GA? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greater Columbus, Georgia.
