Do you want to take an inexpensive yet memorable vacation but find yourself stumped about where to go? You may want to check into the state parks that offer hotel accommodations in a part of the country in which you are interested. You may be surprised to find beautiful, peaceful, and comfortable accommodations at very affordable prices.

We tried this recently in the Georgia mountains. While we braced ourselves for a rustic, camp-like experience, we were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves in a contemporary lodge that looked more like a Hilton or Marriott than a cabin.

While there were more affordable options ($59 a night), we pampered ourselves with a junior suite with a big porch with rocking chairs and a spectacular mountain view for $89 a night! We would have easily expected to pay at least twice that if it were not part of the state park system.

The meals (mostly buffet or family style) were pretty good and very inexpensive as well. There were many free and low cost recreational activities available in and near the state park, such as hiking, fishing, rafting, or boating, but of course, we chose to shop in the many nearby quaint shops and antique stores.

While most of the state parks hotels are priced below comparable accommodations outside of state parks, there is quite a variation of price as well as accommodation type (chalets, cabins, cottages, lodges, and more standard hotel-like facilities). Some even offer supervised activities for children.

If you are interested, you better call quickly… these parks are popular and fill up fast.

To see the Amicalola Falls State Park where we stayed as well as several other available throughout GA, visit www.georgiastateparklodges.com or call (800) 864-7275.

Rates: Dec-April $59-69; May-Sept $79-89; October $79-$109

If Georgia isn't where you're headed, check out the sites on the next page to begin your search for the perfect family getaway: