Hard Labor Creek State Park in Rutledge, Georgia, has been a notable filming location for several movies and television productions, particularly during the 1980s. Its diverse landscapes, including forested areas, lakes, and cabins, have provided versatile backdrops for a range of cinematic projects.
Films Shot at Hard Labor Creek State Park
The park's serene yet adaptable environment has hosted the production of various films, from coming-of-age dramas to horror cult classics. Below is a detailed list of the prominent films and TV movies that utilized Hard Labor Creek State Park for their filming:
| Year | Title | Type | Notable Cast Members | Genre (Implied) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Little Darlings | Feature Film | Tatum O'Neal, Matt Dillon | Comedy-Drama |
| 1985 | Poison Ivy | TV Film | Michael J. Fox | Drama |
| 1986 | Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives | Feature Film | N/A | Horror |
Little Darlings, released in 1980, is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that notably captured the scenic beauty of the park as a summer camp setting. Following this, the park provided the authentic backdrop for Poison Ivy, a 1985 television film featuring Michael J. Fox in one of his early career roles. One of the most iconic horror franchises also made its mark at the park, with the 1986 slasher film Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives utilizing its atmospheric qualities to bring its chilling narrative to life, often depicting the camp environment where much of the terror unfolds.
These productions underscore Hard Labor Creek State Park's significant contribution to the film industry, particularly for projects seeking a natural, rustic, or camp-like setting.
