Panola Mountain State Park

2620 GA-155 N, Stockbridge, GA 30281, USA

Address:	2620 GA-155 N, Stockbridge, GA 30281, USA
Phone:	+1 770-389-7801
Site:	gastateparks.org
Rating:	4.6
Working:	7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM 7AM–10PM

Location

Photos 20

Reviews 11

Keith Deininger

Decided to try out a new biking trail this past weekend when it was sunny and warm for the first weekend in February. What a great treat it was riding out here. Very few people on the trail and loads of ups and downs to get a real workout. No flat rail road trails here. Theres several locations that you can park, but we chose to park at the main parking lot. The ride out and around the lake and back was 5.28 miles. Would have rode for much longer but didnt know if they lock the gates at dusk. Came to find out that the gate at the MAIN parking area will automatically open for you if its closed after dusk so you can get out. However, if you park down by the lake, that lot is physically locked and you will not be able to get your car out until morning. You need to know this if you plan on staying overnight at one of the 5 primitive camp sites they have. You need to make sure that you have all your provisions with you before the gate is locked. So if youre out riding to one of the side trails to the Monastery or to StoneCrest Mall, make sure that you have enough time to get back before they lock the gates, otherwise youll be camping out for the night in your car. If you are going to be biking a longer route, then youll maybe want to park in the lot down at the lake. You can also bring in any non-motorized boats like a kayak or canoe, there is no boat launch, so your just going to need to wade in if you want to paddle. Electric trolling motors up to 10hp are allowed but absolutely no gas. All boaters must have a USCG approved BCD, you dont need to register with the park rangers, but it would be wise to in the event of an emergency. So will we be back? Definitely! Enjoy!

Stephen T

I went here with some friends to go on the bike trails. Im fairly new to biking and went with my Walmart hybrid bike. Ill say this, it was definitely a workout! Its pretty hilly here. As a beginner with biking, I had to walk up a couple of the hills on the way back from the monastery. The monastery was about 11 miles I think from one end to the other. It was closed though cause it was Sunday, but you could still go in the church. Get your camera ready because the sanctuary is worth snapping a picture of. The park itself is nice. Its not the most scenic place in the world, but it has enough shade cover and change of scenery to keep you interested in a 20+ mile bike ride. When riding, make sure to bring lots of water, because if the monastery is closed, theres no water functioning water fountain (only the bathroom sink, which we werent sure if the water was potable). There is a gas station off the bike trail closer to the monastery though. That gas station was a life saver for us! I definitely plan on coming back for another good workout. For my friends with road bikes, it was much easier so dont let my review intimidate you.

Ayonna McClure Webb

Early Sunday, I decided I wanted to try this place out for a walk/run/hike. I drive by every day and always wanted to check out the scenery. I arrived around 8a and parked at the 155 entrance. The cost to park is $5/day or $50/year. Debating on whether or not I will go enough to purchase an annual pass. There are plenty of different parking lots. This one probably could house roughly 15 cars, I believe. The trail was paved and the scenery was beautiful. I walked to the 2 mile mark and back. Going was a breeze since it was mostly slight downhill. Coming back, well... it was uphill. LOL! It was definitely a good workout. I got my 4 miles in and almost 9k steps. Next time I go, I will park at another entrance so that I can see difference scenery and maybe I will bike next time (as soon as I purchase a bike)!

A Davis

Panola Mountain State park is a jewel, very close to the heart of Atlanta. The staff at the visitors center couldnt be nicer, and will provide guidance on how to rent bikes, boats etc. They regularly run a number of fun activities - day and night hikes, wildlife focused events etc. A really great place to visit for an afternoon. The playground is also a hit with kids and the newer sections of trail that lead (eventually) to Arabia Mountain and beyond on great for cyclists or for getting out and walking on a lovely day.

Alisha Story

We were very diapointed in the archery targets today, almost all of the 22 were so worn out that your arrow goes right through, not to mention trying to keep score is very difficult being that you can not see where the scoring rings are. The course is very well groomed but we would not recomend this place to go shoot... to make matters even worse you have to pay $10 per person to shoot this course... where does that money go???? Its very obvious it is not used for the 3d targets...

Lise Donnelly

This is a great park. I love it not only because its 15 minutes from my house, but also the variety of activities, both self- and staff-led. The mountain itself is accessible only via guided hikes, which are held quite regularly; I highly recommend the moonlight hike, which finishes with a campfire and smores. The staff is fantastic and theres lots of stuff to do here. Picnic! Playground! Archery! Tree climbing! Reptile Day! Homeschool Thursdays!

A Private User

This is certainly one of the most underated state parks in Georgia. I live just a few minutes from it and I thoroughly enjoy it every time I visit. I never tire of the nature w alks and stopping at an over look to see majestic Stone Mountain appearing to the northeast. It is such a wonderful peaceful place to take a piçnic lunch and spend the day. Dont miss the museum. Also if you are in the area long enough sign up for the overnight stay.

Alisa Newsome

We have been going to Panola for years! Our scout troop volunteers for Friends of State Parks Day, my kids take archery lessons, and we enjoy various programs throughout the year! One of our favorite things is the guided hike. The interpreter is phenomenal and a GREAT example for girls! What a better way to have them interested in Nature and also show that girls can be anything and be AWESOME!!

Miss Bret Townsend

If you want nature... Its here. Would like for a little more signage on trails and pathways to ensure you are on the right track and more intuitive map posted at the entrance. The experience was great. Def going back. Also helps that this place has cell signal for those of us alone or who want to see WHERE along we are, unlike nearby Arabia Mountain Trail that doesnt.

David Crow

Beautiful with extensive bike trails and a lake. Much bigger than I had thought. The Nature Center has some nice exhibits including live reptiles. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Ample picnic areas are clean. We hiked for about 5 miles on the paved path. We will return for guided tour of the mountain which is restricted except for guided tours.

Orin Bey

From the bike and walking trails to the events at the park this is a family must. We have done the tree climbing and archery classes and will be returning for more. The gift shop and viewing center are really cool for the family to browse. I will be coming back to cast some rods soon to see whats in the water. Love the outdoors love this park.