Big Haynes Creek Nature Center in Rockdale County opens new kayak launch

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA— The Big Haynes Creek Nature Center (BHCNC) has completed and opened its new state-of-the-art kayak launch designed for universal access and equipped with safety features and ADA functionality. The new amenity is suitable for kayaks and canoes and promises to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for all visitors, regardless of their physical abilities.

The kayak launch is situated along the purple trail at the boardwalk, just a short distance from the trailhead. From this launching point, paddlers can explore the wetlands, navigating through vibrant rookeries and lush vegetation while keeping an eye out for birds, beavers, turtles, and other wildlife. The wetlands area is a habitat for high-priority species, including prothonotary warblers and eagles.

The project was made possible through the generous support of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which selected the launch as one of six initiatives funded by the 2024 Wildlife Viewing Grant. The successful collaboration also involved local partners GMC Construction and Still Lumber, who provided additional funding and expertise.

“We are thrilled to open this kayak launch to the public,” said Dawn Tanner, event and conservation manager at the Georgia International Horse Park. “This project embodies our commitment to making nature accessible to everyone in our community and encourages a deeper connection to our wetlands environment.”

BHCNC does not provide kayaks or canoes at the location. Individuals interested in utilizing this new feature must bring their water vessels.

The Big Haynes Creek Nature Center, located at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.

For more information about the 2024 Georgia Wildlife Viewing Grant Awards, visit: https://georgiawildlife.com/dnr-new-wildlife-viewing-projects-awarded-grants.

For more information about Big Haynes Creek Nature Center and updates/photos for this project, please contact Dawn Tanner at dawn.tanner@conyersga.gov or visit: https://www.georgiahorsepark.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/BigHaynesCreekNatureCenter.

Pictured: City of Conyers Mayor Vince Evans getting into his kayak with ease using the new ADA-compliant kayak launch at Big Haynes Creek Nature Center.  Photo provided Big Haynes Creek Nature Center. 

Pictured:  City of Conyers Mayor Vince Evans and Melanie Furr, educational director of Birds Georgia, led the first organized paddle using the new ADA-compliant kayak launch at Big Haynes Creek Nature Center. The launch was partially funded through Georgia DNR’s Wildlife Viewing Grant and local partners, GMC Construction and Still Lumber. Photo provided Big Haynes Creek Nature Center.