If you are looking for a quick, nature-filled day trip just outside of Atlanta, this is it! Panola Mountain State Park is just 15 minutes from the city and filled with recreational activities for all ages and interests. Panola Mountain is a 100-acre granite outcrop similar to Stone Mountain, but smaller. The park is the crown jewel of the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state. 
The park offers archery, geocaching, birding, plus tree-climbing and orienteering programs, which is a navigational sport. A paved trail is open for cycling, roller blading, jogging and leashed dog-walking. Forested trails are open for hiking and running, and the park features outdoor fitness equipment as well. Reservations are required for ranger-led hikes that teach about the rare plants and animals found in this habitat. To access the mountain itself, ranger-led hikes are required. The park has 5 primitive campsites, 4 picnic shelters and a lake pavilion, as well as an amphitheater, nature center and playground. Vaughters’ Farm is a remnant of DeKalb County’s rural past and a part of Panola Mountain State Park.