There’s something about these late summer days. The golden light, the quiet breeze, the way everything feels just a little slower. It’s the perfect time to hit pause and head outside for a simple pleasure: a picnic.
As the days start to cool and the evenings creep in earlier, now’s your chance to roll out a blanket, pack your favorite snacks, and enjoy one of Cobb County’s beautiful local parks. From shaded lawns to lake views, these six parks offer some of the best settings in the county for a memorable end-of-summer picnic.
Lost Mountain Park
Lost Mountain Park in Powder Springs is one of those places that has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re showing up with kids, a fishing rod, or just a cooler and a blanket, this park makes it easy to settle in for a full afternoon.
There are two playgrounds, one with a shade structure to help beat the heat. The covered picnic pavilions are perfect for bigger groups, but you’ll also find plenty of grassy areas to set up your own space under the trees. If you’re up for a walk, there are wooded trails around the lake and it’s peaceful and not too crowded.
Sports fields and tennis courts stay active, so the vibe is lively without feeling chaotic. You can even fish at the lake (catch and release), or just enjoy the stillness while you eat.
Park hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Best for: Families, shaded play, and all-day outings
Morgan Falls Overlook Park
Morgan Falls Overlook Park in Sandy Springs is made for low-key afternoons. This park sits right along the Chattahoochee River, and the views are seriously calming. Porch swings face the water, and there's a grassy lawn perfect for spreading out a blanket and just relaxing.
If you're feeling a bit more active before or after your meal, there's a short hiking trail through the woods and a floating dock for kayaking or paddleboarding. Rentals are available if you don't bring your own gear. But even if you're just here for the picnic, you'll leave feeling recharged.
The pavilion is first-come, first-served (unless reserved), so you can usually find a shady table. There’s also a great playground nearby that’s a hit with younger kids, plus clean restrooms and a fire pit area for a cozy feel.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Scenic picnics, river breezes, and laid-back vibes
Thompson Park
Tucked away in Mableton, Thompson Park feels like a neighborhood secret. It’s not the flashiest park in the county, but it might be one of the coziest. There are shady trails, two updated playgrounds, and a peaceful pond where you can fish or just sit and watch the water.
If you're planning a picnic, there are tables and grills near the playgrounds, which is great if you want to cook on-site or just keep an eye on the kids while you eat. The walking trails loop through leafy areas that stay cooler even in the heat, making it a nice option for a late afternoon stroll before dinner. It’s a solid choice for a no-fuss, quiet picnic where you can still feel like you’ve gotten out in nature without leaving town.
Park hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Best for: Chill weekends, family time, and peaceful walks
Mabry Park
Mabry Park in East Cobb brings a peaceful, old-farm charm that feels just right at the end of summer. Set on what used to be a family-owned farm, the park features open meadows, a pond with fishing spots, and a farm-themed playground that kids absolutely love.
There are several picnic tables and covered pavilions scattered throughout the park, and the trails make it easy to find a quiet corner under the trees. The open fields are also great for tossing a frisbee, flying a kite, or just lounging in the sun while it lasts.
What really makes Mabry Park stand out is how calm it feels. The layout is thoughtful, and there’s a ton of natural shade, which makes it ideal for packing a lunch and staying a while.
Park hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Best for: Scenic surroundings, playground fun, and peaceful lunches
Swift-Cantrell Park
Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw is one of Cobb’s biggest and most popular parks—and for good reason. With over 40 acres, it’s got space for everyone, from little kids to skaters to joggers to dog lovers.
For picnickers, the draw is the big open lawns and covered pavilions. The playground is fully inclusive and fenced in, which gives parents a little peace of mind while they enjoy lunch nearby. There’s also a splash pad (open in summer), skate park, and even a dog park, so you really can bring the whole crew.
If you want more than just sitting and snacking, there are wide, paved walking trails you can loop before settling in. Restrooms, water fountains, and shaded areas are all available. It’s a great spot for gathering, stretching out, and making one last big summer memory.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Big groups, dog lovers, and high-energy outings
Proctor Landing Park
If you're looking for a picnic spot with water access, Proctor Landing Park delivers. Tucked along the shore of Lake Allatoona, this park offers sandy beaches, a marked swim area, and picnic tables with lake views. It’s a solid pick for families who want a laid-back day in the sun with plenty of space to spread out.
There are picnic tables scattered throughout the park, each one on a concrete pad and equipped with a grill. Trails connect most of the tables, so you can easily roll a cooler in without hiking through brush. For bigger get-togethers, the group pavilions offer lots of table space and multiple grills.
You’ve also got volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and restrooms nearby. But the biggest draw is the chance to cool off in the lake, lounge on the beach, and enjoy your lunch with a breeze off the water. It’s only open during the warmer months, so now’s the time to make the most of it.
Park hours: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., mid-April through mid-September
Best for: Beach days, lakeside grilling, and laid-back family outings
Make the Most of the Last Summer Stretch
September always sneaks up fast. One minute you’re in full summer mode, and the next you’re grabbing a sweater and wondering when the sun started setting so early. Before that shift hits hard, take a moment for yourself.
Pick a park. Pack something simple like fruit, sandwiches, cold drinks, maybe a little dessert. Grab a book, bring a friend, or just go solo. Let the season slow down around you for a while.
And if you do head out, snap a photo and tag the park. You never know who you’ll inspire to do the same before the clouds roll in.
Summer’s still here, at least for a little while longer. Let’s not waste it.
Leave a Reply