I'm on my way to southern Georgia for a weekend camping with the Georgia Conservancy, but with a drive of over four hours and plenty of time to spare, I thought it would be nice to stretch my legs along the way. My first stop takes me to what has been deemed one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia, Radium Springs. Known as "Skywater" to the indigenous peoples and later as "Blue Springs" to the Colonials, trace amounts of radium were discovered in the water around 1925 and this largest natural spring in Georgia was given a new moniker.
During the late 1800's and early 1900's, this site was a popular tourist attraction. A resort, golf course, and many other amenities were built in and around the large pool. Gorgeous blue waters rise from a deep cave system at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit year round and provide a moderate environment for fish and other aquatic species.
Today, the ruins of the once popular resort remain, though the main structure was demolished in 2003 after several successive floods had damaged it beyond repair. A short walk around the various stone walls and other features provides great views of the spring and the fish swimming within it. From the large pool, the waters flow south and soon join the Flint River. With a light fall breeze blowing through and no one else around, it's a very serene experience. It's time to return to the jeep though and get back on the road.
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