Georgia / Gwinnett County

Buford Dam Park Shelters

Closed — Closed for the season. The park operates seasonally and typically reopens in spring.

About

Buford Dam Park Shelters offers three reservable group picnic shelters in a scenic day-use park on Lake Sidney Lanier, one of Georgia's most popular recreation destinations with 690 miles of shoreline. The park provides access to a designated swim beach in a protected cove, the Laurel Ridge Hiking Trail which loops 3.5 miles with views of the lake and Chattahoochee River, and recreational facilities including a basketball court, soccer field, and playground. The shelters accommodate small group gatherings with advance reservations required through Recreation.gov. The park is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and operates seasonally, typically closing for winter months. Located in the forested foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, the setting provides aqua-blue lake waters and spectacular scenery. Fishing opportunities include bass, catfish, and panfish. The park also connects to other USACE parks and is near Lake Lanier Islands. Alcohol, pets, and fireworks are prohibited at this facility. Shelters operate first-come, first-served during Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends.

Directions

From Georgia Highway 400, take exit 14 to Highway 20 east, turn left onto Sanders Road, at first stop sign turn right on Buford Dam Road. After crossing the dam, turn left when you see Lanier Project Management Office sign. From Interstate 85, take exit 111 and head north on Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road. Continue approximately 10 miles to Buford Dam Road. Turn left on Buford Dam Road, turn right at the Lanier Project Management Office sign.

Nearby Campgrounds