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Not every state has such a unique set of amenities the way Georgia does.
The Peach State has mountains, rivers, beaches, and a beautiful coast looking out onto the Atlantic.
That means that no matter what kind of excitement a group is looking for, there’s a park to fulfill those interests.
That also means taking care of the terrain, wildlife, and visitors is a big responsibility.
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If this sounds like an adventure you’ve been waiting to take, get ready for a career change.
Here, we’re going to take you through everything you need to know to become a park ranger in Georgia.
Requirements to Become a Park Ranger in Georgia
When it comes to working in a state park, an applicant should enjoy being outdoors and at least overseeing the recreational activities available.
Additionally, being able to communicate with visitors using patience and knowledge is paramount.
Other than that, prospective rangers should be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
A bachelor’s degree with coursework related to the position is the expected educational minimum.
If you have experience as a police officer or park guide, that can be used to help qualify.
Park Ranger Duties in Georgia
As mentioned, the variety of parks varies greatly.
The furthest park to the north is Black Rock State Park, bordering North Carolina and nestled in the mountains.
To the south is Crooked River State Park, which is right by the ocean and Florida.
So, the individual duties will depend on what part of the state your park is in.
No matter the location, rangers will be doing a lot of walking across land.
Part of the job includes protecting the natural resources within the park limits.
Being aware of the ground status at any time is a top priority.
Aside from the park specifics, the other half of the job is the people you encounter.
Whether they have questions, need help, or would like a tour of the park, visitors make the park.
Without them, there would be no funding.
So, being available for a number of visitor requests is to be expected.
That includes facilitating activities and events.
State Parks in Georgia
- A.H. Stephens State Park
- Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge
- Black Rock Mountain State Park
- Chattahoochee Bend State Park
- Chief Vann House Historic Site
- Cloudland Canyon State Park
- Crooked River State Park
- Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site
- Dames Ferry Campground
- Don Carter State Park
- Elijah Clark State Park
- Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site
- F.D. Roosevelt State Park
- Florence Marina State Park
- Fort King George Historic Site
- Fort McAllister State Park
- Fort Morris Historic Site
- Fort Mountain State Park
- Fort Yargo State Park
- General Coffee State Park
- George L. Smith State Park
- George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge
- Georgia Veterans State Park & Resort
- Hamburg State Park
- Hard Labor Creek State Park
- Hardman Farm Historic Site
- High Falls State Park
- Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site
- Indian Springs State Park
- Jack Hill State Park
- James H. (Sloppy) Floyd State Park
- Jarrell Plantation Historic Site
- Jefferson Davis Memorial Historic Site
- Kolomoki Mounds State Park
- Lapham-Patterson House Historic Site
- Laura S. Walker State Park
- Len Foote Hike Inn at Amicalola Falls
- Little Ocmulgee State Park and Lodge
- Magnolia Springs State Park
- Mistletoe State Park
- Moccasin Creek State Park
- New Echota Historic Site
- Panola Mountain State Park
- Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site
- Providence Canyon State Park
- Red Top Mountain State Park
- Reed Bingham State Park
- Sapelo Island and Reynolds Mansion
- Richard B. Russell State Parke
- Robert Toombs House Historic Site
- Rocky Mountain Recreation & Public Fishing Area
- Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site
- SAM Shortline Excursion Train
- Seminole State Park
- Skidaway Island State Park
- Smithgall Woods State Park
- Stephen C. Foster State Park
- Sweetwater Creek State Park
- Tallulah Gorge State Park
- Traveler’s Rest Historic Site
- Tugaloo State Park
- Unicoi State Park and Lodge
- Victoria Bryant State Park
- Vogel State Park
- Watson Mill Bridge State Park
- Wormsloe Historic Site
Salary
If you’re interested in becoming a park ranger in Georgia, the average pay is $40,622.
However, depending on experience and area, the salary can range from $33,000 up to $49,000.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Atlanta | $40,622 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | $38,430 |
| Columbus | $37,348 |
| Savannah | $38,588 |
| Athens-Clarke County | $40,335 |
| Macon | $38,315 |
| Roswell | $40,468 |
| Albany | $37,749 |
| Marietta | $40,507 |
| Warner Robins | $38,200 |
Regional Salary in Georgia
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens-Clarke County, GA | 40 | $78,980 | $37.97 | $125,530 | $49,960 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 200 | $86,710 | $41.69 | $126,720 | $51,190 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular state park in Georgia?
Stone Mountain Park.
There are around four million bodies roaming around the historic park each year.
That number has a lot to do with the fact that Stone Mountain has several programs going on throughout the year.
Do park rangers get benefits in Georgia?
Aside from getting a hearty dose of fresh air, park rangers work for the state government.
That means they get all the health, financial, and retirement benefits of other government workers.
Are park rangers in Georgia required to wear uniforms?
Yes.
Uniforms are part of the dress and grooming standards that come with the position.
How many people work for the state parks in Georgia?
The state parks fall under the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Within that agency, there are about 2,500 employees who work to keep the parks running.
Positions such as game wardens, biologists, and environmental engineers are all part of the system.
Is there a senior discount for visiting the state parks of Georgia?
Yes.
An annual pass will be 50% off for patrons 62 and up.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Wildlife Conservationist
Park Ranger by State