20 Attractions to Explore Near Carters Lake

Carters Dam, is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. This dam, completed in 1977, helps to control flooding in the area by providing flood storage for the Coosawattee River. Along with its important role in managing the surrounding environment, it also provides recreational opportunities for locals such as kayaking and fishing. For those looking for some relaxation, there are also vast picnic grounds available on site.

Carters Lake, is truly a unique destination. Nestled within the Appalachian foothills, it offers breathtaking views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake itself covers over 3,200 acres of glassy clear water, perfect for fishing and recreational boating. It's also popular with hikers and campers due to its abundance of trails and public camping sites. Birdwatchers can spend leisurely days scoping out ospreys, bald eagles and wood ducks among other species of birds.

Fort Mountain Lake is a man-made lake, which was created as part of the Vogel State Park in the 1930s and is now a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and camping. Nestled in the beautiful folds of the North Georgia Mountains, it lies within its own serene wilderness setting. Within the lake itself lies many distinct features that add its charm to visitors, such as sunken trees, islands, drops offs, underwater channels and more.

Fort Mountain State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure. Featuring miles of trails, lake access, and sprawling natural beauty, this is the ideal spot to camp or go hiking. The park has a scenic overlook that can be reached by a short trail and rewards visitors with breathtaking views. In addition to camping and trails, there are plenty of historic sites to explore like 800-year-old evidence of an ancient wall and artifacts from the Civil War period.

Fort Mountain, is a historical location filled with wonders and secrets. Situated in the north of Georgia it rises with a peak of 835 feet above sea level and overlooks Chatsworth lake, formed naturally by its steep banks. The mountain comprises three distinct geological formations – metamorphic rocks, lava flows, and the famous rock wall – believed to have been built by Indians who lived here thousands of years ago.

Cohutta Overlook located atop of the gorgeous Cohutta Mountain range, visitors to the overlook can take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. From the quartzite cliffs that tower over pine and hardwood forests to the distant rolling hills of North Georgia, visitors will be captivated by a 360-degree view of beauty at its finest. Bird watchers also flock to the area as it's an ideal spot for spotting hawks and vultures from both near and far away locations.

Rich Mountain Wilderness spans 12,000 acres of stunning beauty, framed by the peaks of the Chattahoochee National Forest and sweeping down 2,000 feet to the Coosawattee River, this area is a haven for wildlife. The terrain offers gorgeous vistas with lush vegetation including hardwoods, hemlocks and pines. For those seeking a deeper exploration, 160 miles of trails will lead ambitious outdoors adventurers across the creeks and rivers of the region in search of waterfalls.

The Chief Vann House Historic Site is a 19th century plantation house that has been carefully restored to its original grandeur. Built circa 1805 by Chief James Vann and his son Joseph, the home is a remarkable reminder of an interesting chapter in Georgia's past. The house was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1973 for its representations of Cherokee history in Georgia and its significance to southern aristocracy.

New Echota State Historic Site marks the location of the former capital of the Cherokee Nation. Located within site boundaries lies a reconstructed museum and visitor center, Supreme Court museum and law office, dungeon jail structure, a print shop building as well as 18th and 19th century homes. Visiting this historic site will take you on a journey through time as you step back to experience the town New Echota was during its peak in the 1820's.

Sharp Mountain Vineyards, is a stunning place to enjoy some of the region's award-winning wines. This family-run vineyard offers a range of varietals in both red and white wine varieties. With winemaking being held to the highest standards and with grapes sourced directly from the vineyard, each bottle of Sharp Mountain Vineyards features the best qualities that make the local region's grapes so special.

The Emery Creek Trail is a hidden gem! 2.6 miles long, the trail meanders through some of the region's most serene woodlands, offering beautiful views of lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. You'll pass over bridges and along bubbling brooks as you make your way further down the trail. Whether you're looking for a new place to explore or want to reconnect with nature, this trail is an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers.

The Resaca Battlefield Historic Site is a great place to visit if you are looking to learn more about the Civil War. The site covers 1,815 acres and offers visitors an up close look at the Resaca Battle that took place during that conflict. There are several walking and driving tours available which will give visitors a glimpse into what happened on May 13-15 of 1864. On these tours, you can find interpretive markers, a visitor center museum with artifacts from the battle on display.

Grandview Lake is a stunning, natural lake which adds an extra layer of beauty to the area's rugged, mountainous terrain. Grandview Lake is the largest reservoir in Pickens County and many visitors take advantage of camping and hiking opportunities at the lake. Boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming are also popular at this location and anglers frequently target largemouth bass among other types of fish.

Conasauga Lake, makes for an awesome spot for a camping excursion! When visiting the lake you can cast your fishing line to catch bass, bream and crappie; take the kayak out for a little exploration of coves and streams; or spend the day sunbathing on the shore. There’s also plenty of hiking trails and lush greenery surrounding the lake. While you're there, you can get up close with nature and witness some beautiful wildlife like deer, beaver, river otters, even bald eagles!

Grassy Mountain is a place gifted with natural beauty. The mountain lies within the Cohutta Wilderness area, allowing visitors an opportunity to experience the tranquility of its immaculate surroundings and all the wonders of nature untouched by human interference. Its footpaths are bounded by deep valleys and ancient trees. The bright blue waters of the Chickamauga Lake form its boundary to the northeast, offering spectacular views for hikers looking to explore this magnificent locale.

Lake Tamarack, is a beautiful piece of nature that attracts people from all over the state. The lake has been a major outdoor recreation destination for nearly 100 years. It offers boating, swimming, fishing, and camping to its visitors. A popular attraction is the Lake Tamarack Lodge which offers several amenities including picnic tables and fire pits. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching with over 130 species of birds spotted near the lake.

Cohutta Wilderness is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With over 35,000 acres of rugged terrain, the area boasts an impressive variety of activities including hunting, fishing, backpacking, camping, hiking and more. With its sprawling trails that stretch across numerous mountain ranges, visitors can expect to come across some beautiful vistas of alpine forests and meadows.

Pine Log Mountain is a special place boasting breathtaking views and trails for hiking, camping and more, it's not hard to fall in love with this picturesque location. Standing at 1,624 feet above sea level on the highest point in the county, you can experience stunning panoramic vistas from its summit surrounded by lush forests. And if that weren't enough, Pine Log also has plenty of outdoor activities for adventurers--from creek-side fishing and rock hunting to ATV riding and birding.

This is an outdoor oasis located within minutes of Atlanta. This expansive park boasts miles of wooded hiking and biking trails, as well as lovely pavilions and picnic shelters for relaxing gatherings. Avid fishermen will be pleased to discover the catch-and-release fishing pond, where they can spend hours trying to snag a big one! There are also several nature preserves on the property, providing visitors with spectacular views of local flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Rich Mountain Wilderness is an incredible outdoors experience. Boasting more than 17,000 acres of lush green forest, this region will astound you with its sheer beauty and grandeur. From hiking trails to camping spots, fishing to swimming in various creeks, visitors are left with a sense of serenity that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The Rich Mountain Wilderness also boasts some magnificent animal life with deer, raccoon and river otter amongst the wildlife commonly seen by visitors.