F.D. Roosevelt State Park

After three delightful nights at Florence Marina State Park, it was time for our merry caravan to hit the road again. With trailers hitched and spirits high, we set off for the short journey to F.D. Roosevelt State Park. If you’ve never experienced the thrill of following another travel trailer, it’s a bit like a slow-motion chase scene from a movie. Picture attempting to stick together through towns, navigating traffic lights, dodging semi-trucks, and dealing with impatient drivers who seem ready to perform circus stunts just to avoid being stuck behind us. It’s an exercise in patience and can lead to much frustration.

However, all the built-up tension melted away as we pulled into F.D. Roosevelt State Park. The serenity of the surroundings immediately calmed us. The smooth waters of the lake, reflecting the rolling hills and expansive blue sky, embraced us. Nestled in the trees and rolling hills of Pine Mountain, Georgia, F.D. Roosevelt State Park has a woodsy charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, when life moved just a tad slower.

Our first mission was to locate our campsite and get set up. With 116 sites to choose from, this was no small feat. We eventually persevered and found ourselves facing a difficult uphill and blindside back-in site—challenge accepted. The teamwork that followed was a flurry of activity that could only be described as an unrehearsed ballet. After much back-and-forth, and perhaps a few choice words not suitable for print, our trailer was finally leveled and set up. Success!

Eager to explore, we wasted no time and made our way to Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Little White House in nearby Warm Springs. Roosevelt first came to Warm Springs in 1924, seeking a cure for polio in the therapeutic waters. He liked the area so much that he built a charming six-room colonial-style house in 1932.

Walking through its rooms, I felt a sense of somber nostalgia. The house remains much like it was when FDR passed away there in 1945, during a portrait sitting. The unfinished painting is on display in an adjacent museum, which also showcases many personal items, including FDR’s Ford with hand controls and a collection of walking canes given to him over the years.

Leaving the Little White House, we drove to Dowdell’s Knob. This scenic spot, nearly 1,400 feet above sea level, offers a wide panoramic view of the valley below. Roosevelt often came here to rest and relax while contemplating world issues. He even built a stone grill for formal picnics with dignitaries and enjoyed more casual gatherings with fellow polio patients.

Standing there, it was easy to see why FDR found solace in this place. The view was nothing short of spectacular, and the peaceful ambiance provided a perfect backdrop for reflection. Even at seven months old, our granddaughter wiggled and danced, sensing this was a happy place.

The next day, seeking a different kind of adventure, we headed to Wild Animal Safari. If you’ve never had the chance to hand-feed animals from the safety (or lack thereof) of a vehicle, you’re in for a treat. We opted to rent a safari van painted like a zebra—definitely worth the additional fee to avoid getting our own truck scratched and slobbered on.

And boy, was it an experience! It was part Disney ride part Jurassic Park. No sooner than we drove through the gate than we found ourselves surrounded by a menagerie of eager animals. From gentle giraffes poking their heads in for a snack to more enthusiastic ostriches pecking away, we laughed and marveled at the variety of animals. Our granddaughter giggled and cooed when she came face-to-face with a zebra. It was a fantastic way to spend the day, and I highly recommend it for families and animal lovers alike.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park, with its mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and unique adventures, provided us with a memorable stop on our journey. The park’s inviting charm and the surrounding attractions ensured there was never a dull moment. Whether it was navigating the uphill campsite, reflecting on history at the Little White House, enjoying the breathtaking views from Dowdell’s Knob, or feeding curious creatures at the Wild Animal Safari, each experience added a special touch to our trip.

As we packed up and prepared to head to our next destination, I couldn’t help but reflect on how traveling with family brings us closer together. So, here’s to the road ahead, slow-motion chase scenes and all—may it always lead to new adventures and cherished memories.

Until next time—happy days and safe travels!