Georgia’s state parks system, one of the oldest in the nation, celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Founded in 1931 with the establishment of Indian Springs and Vogel state parks, in Flovilla and Blairsville respectively, the system now manages 48 state parks in all — one within a two-hour drive of every Georgia resident.

To celebrate, Georgia Public Broadcasting is creating a documentary, to air sometime this year. Georgia residents and visitors are invited to share their stories and memories of state parks by calling 800-549-4558 or going online at gpb.org/stateparks. Visitors are also asked to share photographs and postcards at F. D. Roosevelt State Parks in Pine Mountain on Sept. 17, and Jarrell Plantation in Juliette on Sept. 24. (Items may be used in the documentary, park brochures or other projects.)

Additional events also are planned, including photography exhibits, festivals, music and more. In fact, the Georgia State Parks Web site (gastateparks.org) has gathered a list of the “75 must-do things in Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites” — everything from sleep in the luxurious Lodge at Smithgall Woods (#2 on the list) to leash up your canine best friend for a stay in one of Georgia’s pet-friendly state park cottages (#64).

A daily parking fee is $4, or you can buy an annual pass for all parks for $40. Visitors can make camping and cottage reservations online 24/7 at GeorgiaStateParks.org or weekdays by calling 800-864-7275. Cottage reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance; a two-night minimum stay is required for weekend reservations. – Jennifer Weis