Just north of St Marys in the southeast corner of the state, Cumberland island is Georgia's largest barrier island. Relatively undeveloped and steeped in history, the island can provide of the most awe-inspiring camping experiences on the eastern seaboard. Once a retreat to the wealthy industrialists of the turn of the century (a number of the Carnegie family's estates once blessed the area), it's now a well managed national seashore run by the US Department of the interior. Weekenders from Jacksonville and Savannah are buying up great homes in the area. See ResortScape's whole selection of Cumberland island area real estate.

At the other end of the state, just south of the border of Tennessee, sits northwest Georgia's Rock City. From the vantage point at the top of Lookout Mountain, massive rock formations loom large and locals make heady claims of views that allow you to see 7 states from one spot. To make this area your own, or to just get easy access to Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park, look for your weekend retreat anywhere in Fannin County. Just south is Pickens County, where the mountains of Big Canoe beckon.

While friends from Colorado might giggle at the claim, at 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald is Georgia's highest mountain. Picturesque all year long and home to a menagerie of local animals, the mountain provides an anchor and focal point to many great vacation and second home areas. Hiawassee, Blairsville and even Young Harris all have great options.