Take a trip back in time at McDaniel Farm Park in Duluth, where history and nature come together on 134 acres of beautiful landscape and wooded trails. Once a working cotton farm, the property has been carefully restored to reflect life on a 1930s Gwinnett homestead. You can check out the farmhouse, barns, and gardens, wander along shaded trails, or spread out a blanket for a picnic in the open fields. There’s even a farm-themed playground for kids and a dog park for furry friends. McDaniel Farm blends history, nature, and recreation all in one peaceful spot right here in Gwinnett!

 

📍 Location & Hours

  • Historic Entrance: 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth, GA

  • Park Entrance: 3020 McDaniel Road, Duluth, GA

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The historic office is open Saturdays from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Check gwinnettparks.com for current updates.

 

🏞️ What are things to do at McDaniel Farm Park?

Park Features & Amenities

  • 134 acres of farmland and open green space

  • Restored farm buildings: furnished farmhouse, barn, tenant house, blacksmith shed, carriage house, chicken coop, and more

  • Historic tours and educational programs

  • 3 miles of paved and natural trails (including connections between the Historic and Park entrances)

  • Farm-themed playground for kids

  • Two fenced dog parks (for large and small dogs)

  • Two picnic pavilions with grills and nearby restrooms

  • Vegetable and flower gardens

 

🐓 A Walk Through History

McDaniel Farm is like stepping onto the set of a living history exhibit. Originally acquired in an 1820 land lottery, the McDaniel family farmed the land for generations until 1999. Today, visitors can explore a restored 1930s farmstead complete with a furnished farmhouse, barn, blacksmith shed, well house, and even a tenant farmer’s home. Guided tours (available on select days) bring the stories of Gwinnett’s farming past to life, while the grounds themselves offer a self-guided look into rural heritage.

 

🚶‍♂️Paths, Loops, & Scenic Routes

McDaniel Farm is a great spot for an easy walk, jog, or just a stroll to take in the scenery. There are about 3 miles of paved and unpaved trails that wind through the park. One of the best surprises along the paved trail is the wooden swings set up under the trees, which are perfect for taking a break and enjoying nature. You’ll also catch the sound of running water from streams running along parts of the trail, which makes the whole place feel extra peaceful. The paths connect both park entrances, so you can start on either side and loop your way through.

 

🛝 Playground & Pavilion

Families will love the farm-themed playground located near the modern park entrance, plus the wide grassy lawns that are ideal for picnics or lawn games. Two picnic pavilions with nearby grills make it easy to host gatherings, while open hillsides offer plenty of room to spread out a blanket for a lazy afternoon.

 

🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Bring your four-legged friend along! McDaniel Farm has not just one, but two fenced dog parks side by side, one for small pups and the other for larger breeds. It’s the perfect setup for safe play and plenty of tail wags. Beyond the dog parks, the trails and open fields are also pet-friendly, so you can enjoy a walk or run together (just be sure to keep dogs leashed outside the fenced areas).

 

🌸 Photo Ops & Events

McDaniel Farm Park is full of scenic backdrops perfect for photos year-round. From rustic barns and antique wagons to flower beds and open fields, there are plenty of spots for capturing family portraits, engagement sessions, or just a casual nature shot. In spring and summer, blooming gardens add pops of color, while fall brings vibrant foliage across the trails and farmstead.

The park also hosts seasonal events like living history days, heritage tours, and farm-themed programs for all ages. Looking to host your own event? You can rent the historic area or pavilions for weddings, reunions, or community gatherings for a perfect blend of charm and convenience.

 

Plan Your Visit

Interested in renting a pavilion or booking a tour? Contact Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation:

Or visit the Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation website for facility reservations, park updates, and more.