Radium Springs Gardens
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM; Closed Mondays
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Free parking lot on-site
- Access
- Paved sidewalks and boardwalks are wheelchair-friendly, though some natural dirt trails and historic stone overlook areas have uneven terrain.
As one of Georgia's Seven Natural Wonders, this historic site features a stunning, crystal-blue natural spring pumping 70,000 gallons of water per minute. Visitors can stroll through beautifully restored gardens and explore the hauntingly scenic stone ruins of a 1920s casino.
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Once dubbed one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia," Radium Springs Gardens is centered around a magnificent artesian spring that pumps 70,000 gallons of clear, 68-degree water per minute from an underground cave. In the 1920s, it operated as a bustling luxury resort complete with a grand casino.
Today, visitors can wander through beautifully restored gardens and admire the historic stone ruins of the former resort, which was partially reclaimed by nature after devastating floods in the 1990s. The contrast of the crumbling stone colonnades against the eerie, turquoise-blue waters and towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss creates a surreal, photogenic landscape.
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the park serves as a serene sanctuary for local wildlife and a peaceful retreat for travelers along the Flint River. It stands as a resilient testament to Georgia's natural beauty and its rich history of early 20th-century tourism.
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parkVisitor Tips
- ◆ Bring a camera to capture the dramatic contrast of the historic stone ruins against the brilliant blue spring water.
- ◆ Check the park's operating hours before visiting, as access to the garden grounds is gated and typically closes at dusk.
- ◆ Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Flint River trail system for a longer outdoor excursion.
Heads Up
- ◆ Swimming, wading, and diving in the springs are strictly prohibited to preserve the delicate ecological environment.
- ◆ The stone ruins and overlooks can be slippery when wet; always stick to designated paved pathways and boardwalks.
- ◆ Be alert for local wildlife, including snakes and alligators, which are occasionally spotted in and around the water.
Common questions
Can you swim in Radium Springs?
No, swimming, wading, and boating are strictly prohibited in the spring to protect the natural environment. Visitors can view the turquoise waters from the surrounding walking paths and overlooks.
Are dogs allowed at Radium Springs Gardens?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor walking paths throughout the gardens. Owners must clean up after their pets.
Can you walk through the casino ruins?
Yes, visitors can walk through and take photos among the restored stone ruins, terraces, and colonnades of the former 1920s casino. The main casino building was demolished after suffering severe flood damage in the 1990s.