The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a breath of fresh air in the midst of a bustling metro area. Though downtown Atlanta lies a short drive south, it's easy to imagine that you're deep in the wilderness as you stand on the banks of the river surrounded by a lush forest. Here, you can float 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River, explore the park's many separate units, or hike and bike miles of well-kept trails. With its exceptional trout fishing, the region offers year-round angling opportunities. Most days are mild to hot, ensuring that you can get out and enjoy the park any month of the year.
RV camping is a wonderful way to lose yourself in the natural beauty of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Enjoy evenings around the fire and mornings overlooking the river in between cozy, restful nights of sleep. To make your trip easier, try an RV rental. RVshare makes it a breeze to choose and book the perfect motorhome in a location that's convenient for you.
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is spread over multiple units, each with a set of trails that are open to hiking and biking. If you want to be near the water, bring a picnic to enjoy by the shore or spend time fishing for trout and bass. No matter where you go, you'll find excellent dining and shopping within a short drive.
Hiking TrailsCreate routes of varying lengths and difficulty at the Sope Creek multi-use trails. Shared by bikers, walkers, and runners, these trails are popular for evening walks and weekend family outings. Some routes are hillier and more challenging, while others are flat and kid-friendly. Keep in mind that bikes are prohibited for 24 hours after it rains.
3726 Paper Mill Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067
7.1 Miles
Easy to Moderate
Flat and easy to navigate, the Cochran Shoals Fitness Loop is a beautiful spot to explore the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Come any day of the year for quiet morning walks through the trees, or join runners and bikers for an evening workout.
152 Columns Dr, Marietta, GA 30067
3.1 Miles Round Trip
Easy
Bowmans Island Trails
Located at the northern end of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area near Lake Lanier, the Bowmans Island Trails run through the forest and along the Chattahoochee River. Just down the road from the trailhead, you'll find a boat ramp, toilets, and river access. This trail network features a variety of shorter loops, so you can create your own route.
3650 Buford Dam Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
Varies
Easy
SightseeingThe Buford Dam runs across the Chattahoochee River, just south of Lake Lanier. At the dam, you'll find a beautiful park with spots for picnicking and viewing the river. Walk or drive over the dam itself for stunning views of the lake and river, or drive across. The dam is particularly interesting to see during the water-release periods.
1200 Saddle Dike #3, Buford, GA 30518
On a hot Georgia day, head to West Bank Park on Lake Lanier for an afternoon on the water. The park's beach is a great spot to relax or take a swim; you can also head over to the fishing jetty for a walk or a few hours of angling. If you have time, stick around to watch the sunset over the water.
2995 Buford Dam Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
Sprawling over 30 acres a few miles east of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, the Blue Heron Nature Preserve is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy a stroll. The Blueway Trail runs through the preserve, giving you the opportunity to walk through the woods and watch for the many different bird species that nest in the trees.
4055 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
MuseumsThe Smyrna History Museum offers a realistic look at the city's past. Here, you can explore exhibits that tackle key historical events, both good and bad. The museum is small but well-curated, and the friendly staff are always willing to answer questions.
2861 Atlanta Rd, Smyrna, GA 30080
Spend the afternoon admiring works of art at the Kasimir Museum. The majority of the exhibits feature art by members of the Kasimir family: Luigi, Tanna, and Robert. Of particular interest are the multiple-plate color etchings, which Luigi Kasimir refined and perfected to create stunning, highly detailed prints. Many of the family's works show scenes from their trips, taking you on a journey around the world from the perspective of an early 1900s-era traveler.
390 Roswell St NE, Marietta, GA 30060
If you're interested in trains or war history, don't miss a trip to the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Packed with historical photos and hands-on exhibits, it's fun for the whole family. While you're there, check out the General locomotive and the Glover Machine Works assembly line.
2829 Cherokee St NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsLove Street is packed with adorable and quirky gifts, home decor, and garden items. With a selection that includes cheeky decorative signs, locally made candles, and everything in between, it's a charming spot to browse.
1275 Concord Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080
Get out of the heat at The Shops at Belmont, which offers a selection of stores, spas, and restaurants. On warm evenings, stick around to have a meal on one of the many outdoor dining patios.
Atlanta Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080
Get ready to hit the trails in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area at Atlanta Cycling. Whether you need a bike or a replacement part, the friendly staff makes it easy to find the right item.
1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd STE 710, Roswell, GA 30076
Reserve an outdoor table at Ray's on the River to enjoy your meal with a view of the Chattahoochee River. This elegant spot offers a wide range of seafood, steaks, and hearty salads.
6700 Powers Ferry Rd NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30339
Heirloom Market BBQ isn't fancy, but it's legendary for its delicious barbecue. Grab a sandwich or a combo plate, and be sure to indulge in one or more of the fantastic side dishes.
2243 Akers Mill Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
If you're visiting the northern sections of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, the Just Round the Corner Restaurant is a great place for a casual lunch. The menu features snack-bar classics such as burgers, hot sandwiches, and wings.
1620 Buford Dam Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area stretches along 48 miles of the river in a variety of different units. To reach the Island Ford Visitor Center from Atlanta, head north on I-84 and turn north on GA-400 at Exit 87. GA-400 turns into Highway 19, which passes just west of the visitor center. If you're heading to the area around Lake Lanier, continue north to Cumming and head east on GA-20.
8800 Roberts Drive, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
Fee: Entry Fee (per vehicle) $5.0
Whether you live in Atlanta or you're coming in from elsewhere, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a beautiful balance to the bustling metro area. At your campsite, the natural beauty of the river and the forest surround you, creating a sense of wilderness that's usually tough to find so close to a population center. An RV is a wonderful way to experience the area, creating a comfortable bed and an excellent rest after days of hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming.
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