Explore Clayton County International Park: water fun, trails, picnics & family adventures near Lake Spivey. Plan your visit with tips, gear & reviews.
Clayton County International Park Guide with Activities and Essentials
Visiting Clayton County International Park is like finding a hidden gem just south of Atlanta. This family-friendly park near Lake Spivey is packed with exciting activities, beautiful scenery, and a bit of surprising history. Whether you’re looking to splash around, explore nature, or enjoy a relaxing picnic, this park has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll dive into all the fun things to do here and share tips to make your visit awesome. Get ready for a day of adventure and memory-making at one of Georgia’s coolest parks!
Direction From Atlanta Airport
Driving Directions (Approx. 20–25 minutes | 15 miles)
- Start at ATL Airport and take I-285 East from Camp Creek Pkwy.
- Merge onto I-75 South toward Macon.
- Take Exit 228 for GA-138 toward Jonesboro.
- Turn left onto GA-138 East.
- Continue straight for about 4 miles.
- Turn right onto International Park Blvd.
- Follow signs into Clayton County International Park.
Address for GPS
Clayton County International Park
2300 Hwy 138 SE, Jonesboro, GA 30236
About Clayton County International Park
Clayton County International Park, located in Jonesboro, Georgia, has a unique backstory. It was originally built for the 1996 Olympic beach volleyball games. Later on, the park’s beach was even used as the Cornucopia arena in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”! Today, the Olympic crowds are gone, and the movie crews have left, but the park has transformed into a year-round oasis for local families and visitors.
Despite its grand name, the park is basically a big, beautiful county park with lakes, playgrounds, trails, and a water park. Many people also call it “Lake Spivey Park” because it sits by Lake Spivey (a private lake). With hundreds of acres to explore, there’s plenty of room to roam and play. Now, let’s look at all the great things you can do here!
Things to Do at Clayton County International Park
Wondering about the things to do in Clayton County International Park? There are plenty of activities for all ages. Here are some of the park’s main attractions you won’t want to miss:
Spivey Splash Water Park
The park’s Spivey Splash Water Park features colorful twisting slides and pools that delight visitors of all ages. Families flock here on hot summer days to cool off and enjoy the water attractions. With everything from a lazy river to splash pads, there’s aquatic fun for everyone.
One of the biggest highlights is the lazy river – in fact, it’s the largest lazy river in Georgia. You can float gently along the winding waterway on an inner tube and relax under the sun. The water park also has tall twisting slides for thrill-seekers, a FlowRider surf simulator, and a shallow kids’ pool and splash pad perfect for little ones. Lifeguards are on duty, and there are lounge chairs and umbrellas for shade around the pools. Keep in mind, there’s an admission fee (around $15 per person) to enter Spivey Splash, and it’s typically open during the warmer months.
If you plan to enjoy the water park, remember to pack sunscreen and maybe a waterproof case for your phone. The JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch is a handy accessory that keeps your smartphone dry and safe while you float or zip down slides. It’s clear enough to even snap some photos in the lazy river, so you can capture those fun moments without worry about splashes!
- 2 Pack Universal size waterproof case dry bag, fits all smartphones up to 7 inches tall and 4 inches wide such as iPhone…
- Certified IPX8 waterproof level, specially designed for pools, ship, fishing, swimming, sailing, skiing, boating, kayaki…
- Super clear material ensures high response touch and smooth operation, perfect for taking photos and videos, allowing yo…
Hiking and Biking Trails
If you’re looking to stay dry and enjoy nature, the park offers walking and biking trails that wind through the woods and around the lakes. These paths are mostly flat and family-friendly – great for a casual stroll, a bike ride, or even a morning jog. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like ducks or turtles near the water. The paved paths make it easy for kids on scooters or bikes, and there are also a few dirt trails for a short hike under shady trees. It’s a refreshing way to soak up the outdoors.
You’ll find benches and picnic spots where you can take a break. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake. The park has a large group picnic area and pavilions you can rent, or you can simply lay out a blanket under the trees. A waterproof Scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket is perfect for this – it’s big enough for the whole family and has a water-resistant backing to keep everyone dry on the grass. Relaxing on a comfy picnic blanket by the lake while the kids play nearby is a perfect way to spend an afternoon at the park.
Playgrounds and Sports
For those who love to be active, the park has you covered. Kids will adore the playgrounds – there’s an outdoor playground with swings and slides, and even an indoor play area for rainy days. Sports enthusiasts can hit the courts at the 17-court tennis center. There are also large open fields where you can toss a frisbee. It’s a great idea to bring along a fun game to play on the grass. One popular choice is the Spikeball game set, a super-fun 2-on-2 bouncing ball game that’s perfect for the park. It’s easy to learn – you can set it up anywhere on the grass and start a friendly game.
The park also hosts events like occasional summer concerts and outdoor movie nights. Keep an eye on their event calendar – you might catch a live music performance or a “Movie Under the Stars.” If you plan on staying for a concert or movie night, a Coleman portable camping chair will keep you comfortable. These folding chairs are easy to carry and even come with a built-in cup holder (some models have cooler pouches for drinks). They let you sit back and enjoy the show without having to sit on the ground.
Lakes and Fishing
The park’s smaller lakes offer a peaceful change of pace. Fishing is allowed in these ponds (catch-and-release). Even if you don’t fish, you can enjoy walking around the water’s edge and spotting frogs, turtles, or dragonflies. There are picnic tables and grills by the lakes, so you could even have a little barbecue lunch with a nice view. If you have a lot to carry, a TOURIT insulated cooler backpack can keep your drinks and snacks cold while you find the perfect picnic spot. After eating, the kids can play by the shore while you kick back and relax.
Tips for Visiting the Park
To make the most of your trip, here are some handy tips and things to keep in mind when visiting Clayton County International Park:
- Check the Schedule: The park is open year-round, but attractions like Spivey Splash Water Park operate seasonally (usually Memorial Day through Labor Day). Check the Clayton County Parks website for the latest hours and any special events before you go.
- Admission and Rentals: Entry to the general park (trails, playgrounds, etc.) is free. However, the water park and certain facilities aren’t. For example, Spivey Splash tickets are about $15, and pavilion or event room rentals cost extra, so bring some cash or a card just in case.
- Best Times to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings on weekends tend to be less crowded. On hot summer weekends, the water park can get busy by afternoon. If you want a good spot by the pool or a picnic table in the shade, try to arrive when the park opens.
- Safety and Comfort: Lifeguards are on duty at the water park, but you should still keep a close eye on children. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and pack hats, sunglasses, and a bit of bug spray (especially in the summer).
What to Pack
- Waterproof phone case – The JOTO pouch keeps your phone dry so you can capture memories at the water park.
- Picnic blanket – For relaxing on the grass (a waterproof blanket like the Scuddles one is ideal).
- Folding camp chairs – Like the handy Coleman chairs, so you can sit anywhere comfortably (great for concerts or watching the kids).
- Cooler or insulated backpack – To keep your drinks and snacks cold. A cooler backpack like the TOURIT makes carrying everything easy.
- Outdoor games – Bring a frisbee or a game like Spikeball to have fun on the open lawn.
- Park Rules: Remember, no alcohol is allowed. Pets are welcome but should be leashed (there’s a fenced Bark Park if you bring your dog). Always clean up after yourself so the park stays clean and beautiful for everyone.
By following these tips and coming prepared, you’ll be set for a fantastic day at Clayton County International Park. Whether you’re zooming down water slides, pedaling under tall oak trees, or just lounging on a picnic blanket by the lake, this park offers a wonderful mix of adventure and relaxation.
Conclusion
Clayton County International Park truly has something for everyone. From the thrills of Spivey Splash Water Park to the peaceful serenity of its nature trails and lakes, it’s a place where you can fill your day with fun activities or simply unwind in a pretty setting. Families and travelers alike find that this park near Lake Spivey is a perfect spot to make memories without venturing far from the city.
In one visit, you might splash in the water, hike a trail, play a sport, and picnic under the trees. It’s no wonder locals cherish this place, and first-time visitors are surprised by how much it offers. Next time you’re looking for an affordable, enjoyable day out in the Atlanta area, remember Clayton County International Park. Pack your picnic gear, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore this hidden gem – it might just become your new favorite weekend spot. If you’re eager to explore more of Georgia, you might also love visiting Helen. Check out our 11 Fun Things to Do in Helen, Georgia – Full Travel Guide for another awesome adventure!
