Camp Martha Johnston offers a balanced outdoor experience for adventurers near Lizella, Georgia. With diverse trails, hands-on skills opportunities, and rich natural surroundings, it’s the premier spot for both casual day explorers and seasoned nature enthusiasts.
Adventure Tips
Bring Sturdy Footwear
Trails combine soft dirt paths with rocky sections and exposed roots that require good traction and ankle support to prevent injury.
Start Early
To avoid Georgia’s midday heat and capture cooler morning air, plan your hikes to begin before 9 a.m., especially in summer months.
Carry Adequate Water
Limited water refill points along the trails mean you should bring at least 2 liters per person to stay properly hydrated.
Watch for Wildlife
Maintain a respectful distance from deer and foxes, and be alert for quiet animals crossing trail paths, especially near dawn or dusk.
Why Camp Martha Johnston is Lizella’s Premier Outdoor Playground
Camp Martha Johnston, operated by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, stands out as the must-visit destination for outdoor activities around Lizella, Georgia. Sitting on over 600 acres of mixed hardwood forests and open meadows, the camp offers a blend of challenge and tranquility that appeals to hikers, campers, and nature lovers alike.
The hiking trails here cover varying distances, with the most popular loop stretching approximately 3.7 miles. Expect gentle elevation gains of around 400 feet that coax adventurers through shaded pine and oak groves, while the terrain balances well-maintained dirt paths with occasional rocky stretches that demand steady footing. The forest around you is alive—maps and trail signs are clear, but so is the call of the wind teasing the leaves and the distant murmur of creeks daring you further into the wild.
Beyond hiking, Camp Martha Johnston excels in offering practical outdoor experiences that build confidence and skill. Whether you’re learning to navigate by compass or pitching your first tent, the camp’s open fields and wooded clearings provide perfect hands-on opportunities, paired with the region's unpredictably crisp mornings and warm Georgia afternoons.
Access is straightforward from Lizella, about a 15-minute drive, making it easy to plan day trips or weekend getaways. Parking areas are ample but arrivals during peak season require early timing to secure spots. It’s advisable to bring sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes to handle the mixture of soft earth and stubborn roots. Hydration is key—water stations are limited, so carry enough for your group, especially in warmer months.
For families, the camp’s layout offers safe yet immersive explorations, while seasoned hikers will appreciate those subtle shifts in elevation and shaded vantage points overlooking the Ocmulgee River valley. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as white-tailed deer and occasional red foxes, which avoid human interaction but reward patient watchers.
Plan for early mornings or late afternoons for your trek to catch vibrant bird song and avoid midday heat. Spring brings blueberries and the shy bloom of mountain laurel; fall floods the canopies with amber and rust tones, offering prime photo ops. Summer can be humid, so morning hikes are preferable.
Whether sharpening navigation skills, enjoying panoramic views, or simply soaking in the brisk outdoor air, Camp Martha Johnston’s blend of natural testing ground and peaceful retreat gives it the edge as Lizella’s go-to outdoor venue. The land is fiercely itself—wild, welcoming, and ready to challenge in equal measure.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Macon
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Macon special.
No landmarks available
We're still collecting detailed landmark information for Macon. Check back soon for updates!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the trails at Camp Martha Johnston suitable for children?
Yes, several trails are family-friendly with manageable distances and mostly flat terrain. However, adult supervision is recommended on rockier sections and near creek crossings.
Is camping allowed at Camp Martha Johnston outside of organized Girl Scout events?
Camping is primarily reserved for Girl Scout groups, but occasional public events and private rentals can allow camping with prior permission.
Can I bring my dog to Camp Martha Johnston?
Pets are generally not allowed on the property to maintain a safe environment for wildlife and visitors. Check current rules before planning your visit.
What unique wildlife might I see on the trails?
Aside from common white-tailed deer and squirrels, keep watch for red foxes, barred owls, and a variety of songbirds that animate the woods throughout the year.
Are there fishing opportunities near the camp?
Nearby creeks and sections of the Ocmulgee River offer fishing spots. Anglers should check local regulations and have valid permits.
Is there cell phone coverage at Camp Martha Johnston?
Coverage can be spotty in heavily forested areas and valleys. It’s best to prepare for limited service, particularly for emergencies.
Recommended Gear
Hiking Boots
Provide support and traction needed on mixed terrain, protecting ankles from twists.
Layered Clothing
Allows flexible temperature management during cool mornings and warm afternoons.
Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
Critical for maintaining hydration where water sources are scarce or unreliable.
Insect Repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and ticks at bay during the warmer, humid months.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "The small overlook near the northern ridge offers rarely visited panoramic views of the Ocmulgee River valley."
- "A shaded fern grotto off the main loop trail provides a quiet spot for rest away from busier parts of camp."
Wildlife
- "White-tailed deer move quietly through woods at dawn."
- "Red foxes are elusive but sometimes spotted near the camp perimeter."
- "Numerous bird species, including pileated woodpeckers and red-shouldered hawks, inhabit the area."
History
"Camp Martha Johnston has served as a foundational outdoor education center since the mid-20th century, fostering skills and stewardship among generations of Girl Scouts in Georgia."