Northbank Day Use Area Shelter

Open — The facility is currently open. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov, with some dates operating as first-come, first-served.

Notify on Availability Reserve

About

Located approximately 70 miles north of Atlanta in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, Northbank Day Use Area Shelter occupies a prime spot on top of Carters Dam with commanding views of the 3,200-acre Carters Lake. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility serves as a day use recreation area rather than an overnight campground, offering visitors a sheltered picnic area perfect for group gatherings and family outings. The area features multiple amenities including restrooms, a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. The shelter itself provides covered picnic space with scenic overlooks of the sparkling lake waters and rugged shoreline below. Visitors can access fishing spots along the undeveloped 62-mile shoreline and explore nearby hiking trails that wind through the foothills scenery. Carters Lake's pristine waters and relative solitude make it a favorite destination for those seeking natural beauty without crowds. The cities of Ellijay and Chatsworth are approximately 30 minutes away, providing convenient access to restaurants, grocery stores, and fuel. The facility is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mobile District and charges a day use fee.

Directions

From Atlanta, take Interstate 75 North to Exit 293. Turn right onto Georgia Highway 411 North and travel approximately 30 miles. Turn right onto Georgia Highway 136 East and proceed approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Carters Dam Road, continue almost 2 miles, and proceed straight into Northbank Day Use Area.