Don Carter State Park

Open — Open year-round from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Reservations available through Georgia State Parks reservation system.

About

Don Carter State Park is Georgia's first and only state park on the expansive 38,000-acre Lake Lanier. Situated on the northern edge of the reservoir where the Chattahoochee River flows in, this 1,316-acre park opened to the public in 2013 and has become a premier destination for water recreation and outdoor activities near metro-Atlanta. The park honors real-estate executive Don Carter, who served on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources board for 29 years and championed the establishment of Lake Lanier's first state park. The campground offers 44 RV sites equipped with water and electric hookups with 30/50-amp service, accommodating rigs up to 90 feet with 20 pull-through sites available. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, patio, and lantern post. A separate primitive camping area features 16 tent and hammock sites for those seeking a more rustic experience. Both camping areas are gated for overnight guest access. A dump station and gray water disposal areas serve the campground. Beyond camping, the park provides exceptional lake access through multiple boat ramps and docks, plus seasonal kayak, paddleboard, and aquacycle rentals. A large sand swimming beach with bathhouse offers relief on hot days. The park's 14.5 miles of multi-use trails through hardwood forest welcome hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Additional amenities include a visitor center, gift shop, fish cleaning station, outdoor fitness equipment, playground, and four picnic shelters. The park is open year-round with hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Directions

From Gainesville, GA, take US-129 N for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto North Browning Bridge Road and continue for about 2 miles to reach the park entrance.

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