Georgia / Gilmer County

Woodring Day Use Area Shelter

Open — Open year-round for day use and shelter reservations. During peak season, parking may reach capacity and the area can be temporarily closed to new arrivals.

About

Woodring Day Use Area is located on Carters Lake in the North Georgia Mountains, approximately 70 miles north of Atlanta. The facility sits along the scenic shoreline of this 3,200-acre lake nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills. Day visitors enjoy access to a two-lane boat launch with courtesy dock, multiple picnic sites with stationary grills, and modern restroom facilities. The main amenity is a large group picnic shelter (CL-11) that accommodates up to 50 people and is available for advance reservation through Recreation.gov. The shelter has fixed tables and parking for up to 25 vehicles. Boaters launch onto the pristine waters to fish for bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish, or simply enjoy the solitude and scenic beauty of the undeveloped shoreline. The Amadahy and Oak Ridge hiking trails are accessible from Woodring Branch Road, providing opportunities for scenic walks through upland forests and along the lakeshore. During peak recreation season, the boat ramp and parking area can reach capacity and be temporarily closed to new arrivals, so early arrival is recommended. The nearby city of Ellijay, about 30 minutes away, offers restaurants, grocery stores, and other amenities. For overnight stays, the adjacent Woodring Branch Campground offers developed and primitive camping options.

Directions

From Atlanta: Take I-75 North to Exit 293, turn right onto GA-411 North and travel approximately 30 miles. Turn right onto GA-136 East, proceed across railroad tracks, then turn left onto Old Highway 411 North. Continue approximately 6 miles and turn right onto Highway 76. Travel approximately 3.5 miles and turn right onto Woodring Branch Road. Proceed almost 5 miles and continue straight into Woodring Branch Day Use Area.

Nearby Campgrounds