The Binocular Site
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Georgia
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park covers about 2,900 acres to the northwest of Atlanta, Georgia. It was part of the Civil War's Atlanta Campaign, first being established as Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Site in 1917, and then being designated as a park in 1935. Three battlefield areas are located in the park, and are open to visitors. The battlefields, as well as the rest of the park, are connected by several miles of walking trails.
Because of its close proximity to Atlanta, the largest city in Georgia, there are concerns that the park may fall victim to urban sprawl and overuse. For the time being, it is an important park that offers a glimpse of American history. The need to preserve it as a National Historic Place somewhat limits the activities allowed in the park.
Hiking is encouraged, and dogs are allowed in the park, as long as they're kept on leashes and under owner supervision at all times. Camping is not allowed, and hunting is strictly forbidden. The park hosts a museum that offers exhibits about the park and its history as a Civil War battlefield. The Junior Ranger Program is geared toward kids, fostering education and an appreciation for history and wildlife.
While hiking and enjoying the scenery is encouraged, visitors are asked not to pick flowers or plants, to collect rocks, or to remove any other items from the park, even those that may not seem to have any historical significance. It's highly recommended that those walking through the park stay on the cleared trails. The grasses are known to host many ticks, and snakes are not uncommon.
Staying on the trail, wildlife, including birds can be observed with binoculars. Not only do several species of birds live in Kennesaw Park, many more migrate through the area each year. Just a few of the birds that can be observed include the red throated loon, Canada goose, Cooper's hawk, great horned owl, downy woodpecker, and the purple Martin.
The state bird of Georgia is the Brown Thrasher and you can find a checklist for birding activities in Georgia here.
Photo credit to Andrew Kalat, used with permission under the creative commons license. You can find out more about Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park here.
If you've visited Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, please take the time to share your experience and any tips or insight you have about this Georgia birding location below.
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