A Day of Natural Splendor: Exploring Gibbs Garden with Friends of Dearborn Park
Nestled in Ballground, Georgia, just an hour northwest of Decatur, lies the breathtaking Gibbs Garden. Spanning an impressive 376 acres, with the house and gardens occupying over 300 acres, Gibbs Garden stands as one of the nation’s largest residential estate gardens.
The vision for Gibbs Garden was born from Jim Gibbs’ extensive travels, spanning 15 years, where he explored gardens of every style across the nation and the world. Driven by a desire to create a world-class garden, Gibbs spent six years searching for the perfect location. His dream was realized when he discovered a site with a strong water source and beautiful mature trees covering a rolling topography, making it the ideal canvas for his masterpiece.
Gibbs Garden boasts an extensive collection of flora, including multiple varieties of Japanese Maples, rhododendrons (including an orange variety), hydrangeas, ferns, cherry blossoms, and, of course, azaleas, among many others. The garden’s design, with its winding 2.5-mile path, invites visitors to stroll leisurely, taking in the lush surroundings. The path is wheelchair and stroller accessible for most of the route, providing an inclusive experience for all visitors.
However, as you approach the midpoint and head towards The Manor House, the path becomes steep and is no longer wheelchair accessible. Despite this, the journey is well worth it.
Gibbs Garden is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, offering the perfect destination for your next hike or nature adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Gibbs Garden promises a day of awe-inspiring beauty and tranquility.
Plan your visit to Gibbs Garden today and experience the magic of this stunning estate garden.
Friends of Dearborn Park 
