20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake Lanier Islands

Lanier Park Beach is an oasis of fun and relaxation. Visitors enjoy spending time lounging on the white sand beaches and taking a dip in the crystal-clear Lake Lanier. For those looking to get active, there is waterfront playground equipment and plenty of opportunities for fishing or swimming. The park also features a large beach volleyball court with plenty of space to gather with friends and families. Whether its relaxing lakeside or an exciting game of beach volleyball.

Buford Dam is located in Gwinnett County, Georgia, and is part of the Lake Sidney Lanier Reservoir. Built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s, the dam spans approximately 1.1 miles of water. It serves as a key source of hydroelectric power for Georgia today – which stands at more than 3 billion kilowatt-hours per year – along with regulating water levels throughout the lake and providing recreational activities for Gwinnett County citizens.

Burton Mill Park is a nature lover's paradise! Stretching over more than 280 acres of woodlands, meandering creeks, sprawling meadows, and tranquil ponds. From bird watching and fishing at the ponds to horseback riding and exploring the trails on foot or bicycle. Spend an afternoon blissfully lounging by the lake before climbing up to take in panoramic views of the athletic fields or wander through miles of hiking trails that weave through dense forests filled with native wildlife.

Lake Lanier spanning over 38,000 acres, visitors to the lake can partake in a variety of activities such as fishing, skiing and sailing. There are plenty of places to stay on the shores of Lake Lanier from luxury resorts to rustic cabins, so no matter what type of vacation you're looking for there's something for everyone. For those eager to explore the area beyond just the lake there are plenty of venues nearby including botanical gardens, wineries and historical sites from the Civil War era.

E.E. Robinson Park is a hub of nature's beauty and fresh air for local residents to enjoy. Its sprawling 18 acres are filled with open green space, two playgrounds, picnic pavilions, access to trails, and an education and community garden. Visitors can take part in fishing at the pond or take a leisurely walk on one of the walking trails surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. Adjacent to the park visitors will find a tennis court and basketball court, perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Browns Bridge, is best known for its beautiful hiking trails and nature parks. Winding through lush forests and farmland it offers the perfect escape from city life. The bridge itself dates back to 1967, when it was built to connect two sides of Lake Lanier, which is a popular meeting spot for fishermen during migration season. Further along the trail visitors will find multiple points of interest such as a scenic waterfall, an old abandoned house, several picnic areas and even some wildlife.

Cherokee Bluffs, is a quaint mountain retreat that offers some of the best outdoor recreation in the area. Located at an altitude of nearly 2000 feet and tucked away in a beautiful valley surrounded by lush green hills, Cherokee Bluffs is the perfect spot to enjoy activities such as hiking trails, fishing spots, caving and swimming. For accommodations, visitors can stay at one of the many cabins in the area or camp within the park's campground.

Sims Lake Park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Located near the city of Lawrenceville, Sims Lake Park offers plenty of outdoor activities and attractions to keep one entertained. There are scenic trails that run through the lush woods, providing a perfect spot to explore the natural environment. The park also boasts an array of facilities, including an 18-hole disc golf course, two playgrounds with picnic areas, and four lighted tennis courts.

Indian Seats in Forsyth County, is home to one of the greatest examples of Native American relics in the Southeastern United States. This is evidenced by a series of ancient mounds, ceremonial stone seats and other sites, spanning more than a thousand years. In 1967, archaeologists uncovered numerous artifacts that indicated that Indian Seats had been occupied since at least 790 AD. Evidence found suggested that the area was home to a number of Native American cultures.

The Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center is an educational and cultural hub for people of all ages. It features eight interactive exhibits, which showcase the history, ecology, and culture of the county. While geared toward educating K-12 students on environmental sustainability and preservation strategies, the GEHC also has many exhibits and programs designed to stimulate learning among the general public.

George Pierce Park is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. Spanning 57 acres, the park offers plenty of room to play and explore. Activities like fishing, walking trails, and playgrounds are available year-round for visitors to enjoy. There is an Olympic size swimming pool with a zero entry feature that makes it incredibly kid-friendly. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are also covered pavilions with grills and picnic tables that accommodate up to 60 people.

The Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, is an educational and cultural hub for people of all ages. It features eight interactive exhibits, which showcase the history, ecology, and culture of the county. While geared toward educating K-12 students on environmental sustainability and preservation strategies, the GEHC also has many exhibits and programs designed to stimulate learning among the general public.

Sawnee Mountain is an oasis of awesomeness. Its magnificent views provide the perfect opportunity to relax and observe the untouched beauty of nature. With trails winding through wooded areas and towering rock formations, outdoor enthusiasts can explore while engaging with different species of wildlife. There are also many recreational activities to enjoy, such as camping, hiking, biking and fishing in nearby Sawnee Mountain Park and Lake Lanier Islands.

Coolray Field, is a multi-purpose baseball stadium. Home of the Gwinnett Stripers of the AAA minor league, this stadium opened its doors in 2009 and has been entertaining baseball fans from all over ever since. This 9,500-seat stadium contains features such as 17 luxury skyboxes, shaded picnic areas and plenty of concessions stands. Coolray Field strives to provide an unforgettable experience for every fan with concerts, festivals and regional events taking place year round.

River Forks Park is the perfect escape for nature-lovers. Spanning over 200 acres of meadows and densely wooded forest, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Georgia. The park is known for its scenic walking trails which are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike depending on your preference. Visitors can take advantage of the two lakes, one stocked with trout and another where you can rent rowboats in the summer months.

Little Hall Park provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. It spans over 83 acres along the shores of Lake Lanier. This park is home to a variety of attractions, including fishing piers, picnic shelters, trails for walking and cycling, and playgrounds to keep children occupied. Visitors can also rent out canoes and kayaks to explore the lake further. It offers a pavilion where visitors can gather around the fire ring and take in breathtaking views of the lake.

Surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and its picturesque mountain views, the park offers diverse recreational activities like camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, and more. With 3 miles of trails winding through the forested area of Fowler Park, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities with family and friends. In addition to the tremendous variety of outdoor activities, there are plenty of wildlife sighting opportunities as well.

The Big Creek Greenway is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the outdoors. At over eight miles in length, this beautiful path winds through four parks and multiple residential neighborhoods, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Whether it's a morning jog or an afternoon bike ride, visitors can find plenty of places to relax and take in the scenery as they move between one area and another. There are also picnic pavilions and restroom facilities.

Little Mulberry Park offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. You can spend time outdoors on the nature trails, taking in the sights of lush native plants, wildflowers, and wildlife. For more active pursuits, there is plenty to do such as disc golf and fishing. The park also features an open-air amphitheater for events such as concerts and movies. Supervised playgrounds provide hours of fun for kids while adults can kick back at picnic shelters where barbeque grills are available.

Chattapoochee Dog Park is a true dog lovers paradise. Dogs of all sizes can run free and frolic off-leash in the spacious wooded area that spans over 6 acres. The park also features large open green spaces as well as a scenic walking trail for dog owners who prefer to keep their pup leashed. Plenty of seating and amenities are available to make visitors’ stays comfortable, including benches, water stations and waste bag dispensers located throughout the park.