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Laura S. Walker State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,694 Google reviews · Running trail in Waycross, Georgia · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Laura S. Walker State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park near Okefenokee Swamp offering a variety of plants & animals, plus camping, swimming & more.
What runners say about Laura S. Walker State Park
“The park is always clean, and they have scheduled activities like archery you can sign up for!”
“For those who enjoy walking, there are trails leading deep into the forest that open up to a bridge with stunning views.”
“There is kayaking, canoeing, people water skiing, boating and enjoying the peaceful serenity of nature.”
Ms. Laura Walker is a stunning state park located on the northern edge of Okefenokee swamp — near Waycross, Ga. Beautiful old 🌲 and oak trees, water lilies, vibrant flowers, native wildlife and moss all around the park.
Great park with plenty to do! Everything was good on our visit. We went hiking on the trails and also did kayaking, both were a great experience. The park has a lot of amenities (worth looking them up if you’re planning a visit). Overall, it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy the outdoors.
We did not get to spend as much time here as we have wanted. We do not like that the hiking trails or across a road and are not contained inside the park. Camping facilities look to be fairly nice and also have a good space between them. Place was completely packed over the weekend. Lake is very beautiful and open.
I've only been to maybe four state parks, but this one is only second to Alabama. Well maintaind trails and facilities. The cabins are cozy and situated in quads that make them great for groups. There is kayaking, canoeing, people water skiing, boating and enjoying the peaceful serenity of nature.
Trail conditions & character
“For those who enjoy walking, there are trails leading deep into the forest that open up to a bridge with stunning views.”
“There is kayaking, canoeing, people water skiing, boating and enjoying the peaceful serenity of nature.”
“Except for the gravel that is disappointing and painful .”
“Great place to camp, nice restrooms, playground and beach for kids, hiking trails and bike rental.”
“It only costs a $5 parking fee, and there is a lot to do if you enjoy being out in nature!”
Plan your run at Laura S. Walker State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitegastateparks.org
- Phone+1 912-287-4900
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Waycross
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Okefenokee Swamp Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 2,034 reviews
Daytime-only park with boat tours, canoes, trails, reptile shows & a 90-ft. observation tower.
Gilchrist Park or Gibbs Street Park
3.8 ★★★★☆ 56 reviews
Family-friendly green space with a play area that includes swings and slides.
Waycross Scenic Parkway
1 ★☆☆☆☆ 1 reviews
Browntown Wilderness Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 77 reviews
Kid-friendly park with basketball and a boat ramp, as well as picnic tables and a public restroom.