Amicalola Falls, a 729-foot waterfall, lies nestled within the Chattahoochee National Forest on the edge of the North Georgia Mountains. The beautiful 829-acres surrounding the falls, Amicalola Falls State Park, features a resort lodge, campground, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Amicalola Falls, named for the Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters”, is the highest cascading waterfall in Georgia. It is located just 73 miles north of Atlanta and it is only an 8 mile hike from the famous Appalachian Trail.
Since 1940 visitors have been escaping to this wilderness resort to camp, hike, fish, picnic, and bird watch.
Activities
Once you visit Amicalola Falls State Park you’ll understand why it’s one of the most popular state parks in Georgia. Visit for a day and enjoy ziplining, a guided hike, or seeing the Birds of Prey show. Or spend a few nights at the comfortable resort lodge and get a taste of Georgia’s southern cooking at the Maple Restaurant. The Lodge, with its spectacular views and modern conveniences, is also a great spot to gather for family reunions, weddings, business retreats, and more.
Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Amicalola Falls State Park:
Ziplines at Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park has proudly teamed up with American Adventures Park Systems. Guests can now add ziplining to their list of activities to do inside the park. The Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventure Tours will give you a birds eye view of the mountain tops as you fly through the air on these amazing ziplines.
Please be aware that Zip Line Tours are available by reservation only during the winter.
Archery at Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park features a 3D Archery Range where guests can learn the basics of using a compound bow. All equipment is provided by the park but guests are also welcome to bring their own bows.
Hiking at Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park features 10 trails that lead into the wilderness and the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest. One of these rugged trails connects with the legendary Appalachian Trail.
Here are a couple of the trails at Amicalola Falls State Park:
- The Approach Trail – A 8.5 mile trail that extends through the woodlands inside the park and out to Springer Mountain, along the south side of the Appalachian Trail. A stone archway marks the trailhead to this famous 2,150 mile Appalachian Trail.
- Amicalola Falls Lookout Loop – Moderate 2 mile trail with stairs that lead out to the high cascading and picturesque waterfall.
Fishing at Amicalola Falls State Park
Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear and pick up a Georgia Fishing license, the Reflection Pool inside Amicalola Falls State Park is regularly stocked with trout. This pool of water lies below the falls and feeds into Little Amicalola Creek. Catch-and-release only fishing is allowed.
Birding at Amicalola Falls State Park
Many species of birds may be observed throughout Amicalola Falls State Park. As you walk along the trails, through the woods, and near the creek you may see bluebirds, swallows, goldfinches, sparrows, woodpeckers, owls, hawks, osprey, bald eagles, hummingbirds, and ducks.
Nature and Wildlife at Amicalola Falls State Park
During your visit to this picturesque mountain resort you may encounter White-tailed Deer, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, snakes, and possibly black bears. Don’t worry but do prepare yourself by learning more about Bear Safety before your visit to the park.
Pets at Amicalola Falls State Park
Pets are allowed within designated areas at Amicalola Falls State Park. Pets must be supervised and be held on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet.
Camping at Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park is a one-of-a-kind Georgia Mountain Retreat complete with a rustic lodge, camping options (modern, primitive, and glamping), and rustic cabins.
The modern campground features 24 sites nestled within the woodlands along the top of the hill. These spacious sites have electric and water hookups, a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. And are located close to restrooms, showers and laundry facilities.
Glamping sites combine comfort and convenience with the great outdoors. These luxury tents contain beds, table and chairs, rugs, lamps, coffee maker, mini fridge, electrical outlets, and more. Also included at each glampsite are a picnic table, camp chairs, hammocks, a charcoal grill, wood fire ring, and string lights.
The 14 private cabins come in a variety of sizes and locations to meet guests’ needs. Cabins are located within the wooded mountain top and below the falls along the creek. Each has one, two, or three bedrooms, plus a full kitchen and a living room with satellite TV. Heat and air conditioning allow for year round comfort.
The Lodge at Amicalola Falls offers guests all the modern conveniences and the rustic mountain top views. The 57 lodge rooms are stylish and comfortable and come in a variety of sizes. Each room features central air, satellite TV, WiFi, and a coffee maker.
Park Location
Amicalola Falls State Park
418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Phone: 706.265.8888
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Amicalola Falls State Park:
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