I was in the mood for a change of scenery and had some time off Wednesday, so I made the 80 mile trek from suburban Atlanta to this very nice state park. There's a 2.5 mile hike/bike trail that is quite challenging but a lot of fun. Follows the river for awhile then curves off into the woods, down a hill (and, of course, recognizing it's a loop, WILL be a "payback" uphill.) There are a couple additional shorter trails, but I didn't investigate them. Typical state park amenities... full bathroom facilities to freshen up afterwards, picnic tables, etc. I plunked a chair down next to the river and had lunch, then "drowned worms" for a bit afterwards.

The park is off State Hwy 72 between Elberton and Athens, about 40 miles from Hartwell to help lend some perspective. Might be a little bit of a road trip from Anderson, but perhaps worth it if you like a good trail run.