Squirrel-sized dining spots are popping up all over Henry County, Georgia as part of the new “Bushy Tail Art Trail”, a creative public art project both squirrels and people can enjoy.
There are currently just over a dozen of the mini picnic tables on the Bushy Tail Art Trail with plans for more. The project is overseen by Visit Henry County, Georgia’s Artist Consortium.
The diminutive picnic tables are uniquely painted by local artists, and then thoughtfully placed throughout the county in various public parks and outdoor spaces.
The fun and colorful artwork encourages people to explore and enjoy public art and the out-of-doors in a brand new way.
I can’t resist a good scavenger hunt, so I spent a few hours squirrel sleuthing on my own. Fresh air, exercise, and public art – what’s not to love?
My first stop was Clark Community Park where I took to the paved loop trail in search of hidden treasure. The little tables are not super obvious which makes the hunt all the more exciting.
About three-fourths of the way around the loop, I spied a picnic table strapped to a nearby tree. Much to my delight, I arrived just as a squirrel was leaving.
A crisp fall leaf had fluttered onto the table’s surface, but I like to think that the squirrel put it there to reserve the table for later.
I instinctively reached out to remove the leaf before taking a photo, but I quickly changed my mind.
Nature is always best left untouched.
Next, I stopped by J.P. Moseley Park for a look-see. I strolled around the walking trail and noticed a turn-off for a hiking trail.
I turned onto the forested hiking trail and almost immediately came upon a brightly colored picnic table with an aviation theme. Cute!
My next stop was Memorial Park where you can stroll the fitness loop while looking for bushy tail artwork. I had no luck but later found out the table was temporarily removed.
Despite not seeing the art, it was lovely to stretch my legs. I also enjoyed a visit with a stray cat—if you know me, you know I’ll stop everything when I spy a cat.
Also in Memorial Park, you’ll find an entry point to the Reeves Creek Trail. It’s a beautiful trail, but I didn’t have time to walk to its picnic table.
My final stop was at the Henry County Welcome Center, where I found the most elaborate picnic table of the day—a magical Alice in Wonderland-themed creation.
I love a touch of whimsy, don’t you?
If you’re looking for a year-round family-friendly activity in Henry County, GA or you enjoy quirky and unusual finds, I can’t recommend this artsy adventure enough!
If you’re lucky, you may spot a bushy-tailed friend enjoying a meal at one of the squirrels-only dining establishments while you’re hopping the trail. Get outside and explore Henry County, Georgia!
Note: Please remember that the squirrel picnic tables are not meant to be touched by people. But you can still take selfies! (Post them on social with #BetterExplored.)
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