Historic Park: Kolomoki Mounds in Georgia

Historic ParkThe burial mounds near the town of Blakely were built by the Swift Creek and Weeden Island tribes. Shown here is the Temple Mound.

From Reader's Digest

205 Indian Mounds Rd., Blakely, Georgia

This 1,300-acre park is both a recreational area and a mystery-shrouded archaeological site where seven mounds dating from A.D. 250 to 950 have been preserved. Kolomoki, with its mounds, plaza, and outlying villages, was an important population center for perhaps as many as 2,000 people.
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The largest of the mounds, known as the Temple Mound, rises from a base 325 feet by 200 feet to a height of 56 feet. It is believed to have had two distinct platforms at the top, each with a structure, which may have been a temple. Two smaller mounds proved on excavation to be burial mounds. One excavated mound is now housed by the museum; from a platform you can look down into the archaeological dig. The museum interprets events that took place at Kolomoki via a short film, dioramas, and exhibits of artifacts.



The two lakes in the park, together with Kolomoki Creek, offer fishermen ample opportunities for catching bass, crappies, bream, and catfish. Rowboats may be rented, and there is a boat-launching ramp, but motors are limited to 10 horsepower.



[post_ads]Hikers on the two short nature trails may see white-tailed deer, foxes, cardinals, hawks, and possibly an alligator. The park also has a swimming pool, two picnic areas, and a 24-site campground. Park open year-round; museum open year-round except major holidays. Admission charged for museum. Fee charged for use of pool.

See more at: Reader's Digest