Don Carter State Park RV & Campground Guide

Lake Lanier is the ideal spot for fishing. This area is known for its largemouth bass, catfish, and spotted bass. Before you hit the water, check with the office to see if you need a Georgia fishing license.

Geocaching is allowed at the park. However, you will want to be mindful of the local environment, whether you are placing a cache or hunting for treasure. Many of these caches can be found near the swimming beach or along various locations on the trail.

Don Carter State Park is a haven for birdwatching, especially bald eagles and eastern bluebirds. You might even hear the red-bellied woodpeckers or see the wild turkeys roaming throughout the forest. Along with birds, you will want to watch out for white-tailed deer, squirrels, raccoons, and foxes.

Sometimes, the park will host an astronomy party led by the rangers or a local expert. If there is no event, you are welcome to view the night sky with an overnight stay. The park's open spaces are excellent spots to get an unobstructed view of the sky.

Throughout the year, you can marvel at the dogwood trees, mountain laurels, and wild azaleas that fill the park. During the summers, you may also see butterfly weed, wild geraniums, and columbines in the valleys. If you travel farther into the woods, there are many green ferns in the more shaded areas of the park.

If you want to take a short loop, consider the Dogwood Trail. This route is an excellent trail for families or beginning hikers. The Boundary Trail is a bit more challenging as it takes you deeper into the woods. For those who want to get a scenic view, the Overlook Trail is the best way to experience a picturesque hike.

Lake Lanier is the largest reservoir in Georgia. The lake can accommodate everything from sailboats to pontoons and motorized boats. If you have your own vessel, there are two boat ramps in the park.

Since there is plenty of water traffic, you will want to stick to the designated areas for swimming. There is a spot along the shore that is set up for swimmers. These calm waters are a great place to splash around in the summertime.

The park has multi-use trails that can be used for bikers. These trails have moderate terrain, but they can be enjoyed by both beginning and experienced riders. Since hikers share the space, make sure to keep a safe distance and reduce speed on the path.