Wildlife Viewing Guide
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Wildlife Viewing Guide |
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Lake
Richard B. Russell State ParkDescription: One of Georgia's newest and, for now, least-known state parks, this nearly 3,000-acre park with over 7 miles of trails provides plenty of opportunities to find a quiet spot for uninterrupted wildlife viewing. Surrounded on three sides by Lake Russell, the park is an oasis for both humans and wildlife. The majority of the site is forests of oak, hickory, sweetgum, flowering dogwood, and black gum. Dense stands of redcedar have grown up in what were once cotton and tobacco fields. Open fields add to the diversity of habitats, and therefore the diversity of wildlife. Numerous small, protected coves are favorite spots for waterfowl, wading birds, and beavers.
Viewing Information: This protected site has become a refuge for large numbers of wildlife. White-tailed deer and turkey populations are very large and they are frequently seen. Downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, and red-bellied woodpeckers are common in these quiet woods. Canada geese, ducks, mergansers, and loons might be seen during the fall and the winter months. Rabbits, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and opossums are best seen at dawn and dusk. The lake coves and adjacent small streams harbor snakes, turtles, and salamanders.
Directions: From Elberton, travel GA Hwy. 77 north 2 miles. Turn right on Ruckersville Road, and travel 7 miles to park entrance on the right.
Management: Georgia DNR, Parks and Historic Sites Division, 706-213-2045 (Visitors Center)
Closest Town: Elberton, GA
Site Notes: interpretive programs, rowing area and dock, historic structure
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