Emanuel & Candler Counties
Date Established: 1975
Original Acreage: 1,355 Acres
Current Acreage: 1,634 Acres

The land was originally purchased through the Heritage Fund as a historic area and was named Parrish Pond Recreation Area. The name came from the original owner and developer of the land, James Parrish. In 1980, the area became a state park and was named after the local politician, George L. Smith, who was instrumental in purchasing the land for the state. In 1988, thirteen additional acres were purchased as a buffer zone from development and to build a house for use as staff residence. In 1997, 266 acres were purchased to expand the park with a boat ramp and parking area, pioneer camping area, three-mile trail, and four additional cottages.

The park interprets Georgia history through the 1880s covered bridge and gristmill. Water recreation is available with boating and fishing in the 400-acre lake. Natural recreation is available on the sand ridge trails with the opportunity to see the gopher tortoise.

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