Georgia / Forsyth County

West Bank Park Shelters

Closed — Open year-round for reservations through Recreation.gov. Shelters are first-come, first-served during Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends.

About

West Bank Park Shelters is a scenic day-use facility located just north of Buford Dam on Lake Sidney Lanier in the forested foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains. The park features reservable group picnic shelters with lakefront views, providing an ideal setting for gatherings and outdoor recreation. The facility offers access to a designated swim beach, basketball court, playground, and restrooms, making it a popular destination for families and groups. Visitors can explore the Laurel Ridge Hiking Trail, a 3.5-mile loop accessible from multiple locations that offers spectacular views of the lake and Chattahoochee River. Lake Lanier itself boasts 38,000 surface acres, 690 miles of shoreline, and over 100 small islands, renowned for its aqua-blue water and variety of recreational opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch bass, catfish, and panfish, while water enthusiasts enjoy swimming, wakeboarding, and kayaking. The park is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and shelter reservations are handled exclusively through Recreation.gov for advance bookings. During Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends, shelters operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Alcohol, pets, and fireworks are prohibited at the facility. With approximately 11.8 million visitors to Lake Lanier each year, West Bank Park provides a beautiful setting for day-use recreation.

Directions

Physical address is 3500 Buford Dam Rd., Cumming, GA 30041. 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 the sign for West Bank Park. 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