Forest Park Near Atlanta: What to Know About the City, Parks, and Green Spaces

When people search for “Forest Park Atlanta,” they’re usually looking for one of two things:

1. The City of Forest Park, a small city just south of Atlanta, or
2. Parks and green spaces in and around Forest Park and Atlanta.

This guide walks you through both: how Forest Park fits into the Atlanta metro area, what parks and outdoor options you’ll find there, and how it compares to larger Atlanta parks you may already know.

Where Is Forest Park in Relation to Atlanta?

Forest Park, Georgia is an independent city in Clayton County, directly south of the City of Atlanta and near Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

• Distance from downtown Atlanta: roughly 10–12 miles south
• General direction: along the I‑75 corridor
• Nearby areas: Hapeville, Lake City, Morrow, and College Park

Forest Park is part of the Atlanta metro area, so if you live in Atlanta or are visiting, you can get there fairly quickly by car and some bus routes.

Forest Park as a City: Quick Snapshot

While many people assume Forest Park is a neighborhood inside Atlanta, it’s actually its own city with local services and parks.

City of Forest Park (Government Offices)
745 Forest Parkway
Forest Park, GA 30297
Main line (commonly used city hall contact): (404) 366‑4720

You can contact the city for:

• Local ordinances and park rules
• Facility rentals (pavilions, community centers, sports fields)
• Community programs and recreation activities

Parks and Recreation in Forest Park

Forest Park has its own Recreation & Leisure system that manages local parks, sports facilities, and community spaces. These amenities are often quieter and more residential than major Atlanta destination parks, making them useful if you’re nearby or looking for something less crowded.

Key Features You’ll Typically Find in Forest Park City Parks

Most Forest Park neighborhood parks offer some mix of:

• Playgrounds for children
• Picnic areas and pavilions (some rentable for gatherings)
• Open fields for casual sports and fitness
• Walking paths or small loops
• Basketball or tennis courts in select locations

For the most accurate details on current park list, hours, and rentals, residents can contact the city’s recreation department through City Hall or check posted signage at each park.

Comparing Forest Park Green Spaces to Atlanta’s Major Parks

If you’re trying to decide whether to spend an afternoon in Forest Park or in one of Atlanta’s major parks, it helps to understand the differences.

At a Glance: Forest Park vs. Popular Atlanta Parks

If you’re staying in Forest Park or along I‑75 south of Atlanta, the city’s own parks are convenient for everyday recreation. If you want a full “Atlanta park” experience with skyline views, long trails, and big events, places like Piedmont Park or the BeltLine are the better fit.

Getting From Atlanta to Forest Park

By Car

Driving is usually the fastest way to get between Atlanta and Forest Park.

• From Downtown Atlanta: take I‑75 South toward Macon
• Look for exits around Forest Parkway or nearby local roads leading into the city
• Travel time varies with traffic, but it’s often around 15–30 minutes

Parking at Forest Park’s local parks is typically surface lots or street parking, depending on the specific park. Always follow posted signs and any residential restrictions.

By Transit

Public transit connections between Atlanta and Forest Park may involve:

• MARTA rail into the south side of Atlanta
• Bus connections extending into Clayton County (routes can change, so it’s best to check current schedules)

Transit is more practical if you already live or are staying on the south side, near existing bus corridors.

What to Do in and Around Forest Park

Even though Forest Park’s parks are smaller than Atlanta’s largest destinations, they serve a variety of everyday needs for residents and visitors staying nearby.

Everyday Outdoor Activities

In Forest Park’s local parks, people commonly use the spaces for:

• Short walks or light exercise
• Playtime for kids on playgrounds
• Pickup games on basketball or open fields
• Small family gatherings or weekday picnics

Compared to central Atlanta parks, these areas are often less crowded and more oriented to local neighbors than tourists.

Nearby Atlanta-Area Outdoor Options

If you’re based in Forest Park but want to explore Atlanta’s broader outdoors:

• Piedmont Park – large central park with multiple trails, dog parks, and open lawns
• Grant Park – historic neighborhood park east of downtown, with playgrounds and easy walking loops
• Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside and Westside Trails) – paved multi-use trails connecting neighborhoods, eateries, and public art

Driving from Forest Park to these spots typically takes 20–35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Safety, Rules, and Practical Tips

Whether you’re at a Forest Park city park or a major Atlanta park, similar common-sense guidelines apply.

General Park Etiquette

• Check posted hours at each park; many close at dusk.
• Follow leash rules for dogs and clean up after pets.
• Use designated grills and picnic areas rather than setting up in random spots.
• Respect neighbors in residential areas with noise and parking.

Staying Prepared 🌳

• Bring water, especially in Atlanta’s hot, humid months.
• In summer, sun protection and bug spray can make your visit more comfortable.
• If you’re organizing a larger gathering, check whether you need a reservation or permit from the City of Forest Park or the Atlanta Parks and Recreation office, depending on your location.

When “Forest Park Atlanta” Means Just “Forest” and “Park”

Sometimes people type “Forest Park Atlanta” when they simply mean they’re looking for:

• A wooded park near Atlanta
• Hiking-style or nature trails close to the city
• Somewhere that feels more like a forest than an open lawn

If you want a more forest-like experience near Atlanta, you might consider:

• East Palisades or West Palisades along the Chattahoochee River (northwest of downtown Atlanta)
• Cascade Springs Nature Preserve on the southwest side of Atlanta
• Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve or Panola Mountain State Park (a bit farther out, east of the city)

These are not in the City of Forest Park, but they’re reachable by car from anywhere in metro Atlanta and offer more rugged, wooded environments.

Who Should Consider Forest Park’s Parks?

Forest Park-area parks tend to be most useful if you:

• Live in or near Forest Park and want close-to-home green space
• Are staying near the airport and need somewhere nearby for kids to play or to stretch your legs
• Prefer a less crowded alternative to downtown Atlanta’s busiest parks for casual outdoor time

If your goal is a “must-see Atlanta park” experience with long walks, city views, and events, head to Piedmont Park, Grant Park, or the BeltLine. If you just need a convenient, local park south of Atlanta, the City of Forest Park and its neighborhood parks will likely meet your needs.