KINGSLAND GA - Travel is a major contributor to our local economy and to mark this year's National Travel & Tourism Week, the local tourism industry is joining hundreds of travel entities throughout the country in a rally to highlight travel's significant contributions on the local and national economy and illustrate why travel matters in a vocal and visible way. The goal of this traditional campaign is to create a greater appreciation of travel and tourism's impact on our local economy and the more than 10 million workers nationwide whose jobs depend on travel. Let's shine a spotlight on this vital industry and its benefits to our community.

Travel industry partners are encouraged to participate in the Georgia Visitor Center's annual travel rally "GEORGIA ON MY MIND DAY" on Friday, April 12th. Georgia On My Mind Days, sponsored by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, are celebrated around the state by the tourism industry and communities to increase the awareness and partners are able to showcase to area visitors the southern hospitality Georgia is known for.

Locally, this special day is hosted by the Georgia Visitors Center located at I-95N @ Exit 1 and will consist of a circus atmosphere with live entertainment, Coastal Georgia's finest communities showcasing their signature foods, giveaways and other promotional items. Attendees will also enjoy educational exhibits, animal visits, and cultural displays. Event activities will commence at 11:00 a.m. and last until 2:00 p.m.

In addition, during the Georgia On My Mind Day event, the City of Kingsland will be conducting the Annual Kingsland Royal Arrest with a special appearance by the City's Royal Mascot, Kingsley the Lion. Joining in the festive spirit, the Kingsland CVB and Welcome Center will be offering a tasty sample of popped fresh popcorn and icy snow cones. The St. Marys CVB and Welcome Center will be clowning around and offering visitors a taste of the area by offering homemade bread-pudding with peaches baked by a member of their weekly community market.

The Georgia Visitors Center welcomes every and all area tourism industry partners to showcase their products and services to the many visitors that travel through the visitors center that day. There is no registration fee (yes, it is FREE!!) and there will be plenty of outdoor exhibit space available. In addition, the local community and all area residents are invited to attend this fun-filled day of celebration.

Please mark your calendar and plan to participate in this year's event by contacting the Georgia Visitor Information Center 2424 Haddock Road, Kingsland, GA 31548 or ph: 912-729-3253. We look forward to seeing you there!!

2011 Economic Impact of Travel on Camden County 

In 2011, travel was a significant sector of Camden County's local economy generating $78.50 million in direct visitor expenditures while creating $2.24 million in local tax revenues. On an average day in Camden County, visitors spent $215,068 per day on tourism-related expenses which support 740 local tourism industry jobs.

Additional Resources & Statistics

• Official Press Release 
• Tourism Economic Impact on Camden County 
• Tourism Economic Impact on the Georgia Coast 
• Tourism Economic Impact on Georgia 
• US Travel Facts