Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area is a public state park in Georgia near Hartwell. Spanning 147 acres and established in 2020, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Georgia |
| Nearest City | Hartwell |
| Park Size | 147 acres |
| Established | 2020 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (350 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area is located near Hartwell, Georgia. The park’s coordinates are 34.3763, -82.9105.
Things to Do
Georgia state parks showcase a stunning transition of landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains and plunging waterfalls in the north to the mysterious blackwater swamps, pine forests, and barrier islands in the south. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the approach trail to the Appalachian Trail, go whitewater paddling or lazy river tubing, kayak through ancient cypress swamps, and camp in diverse ecosystems. The parks also offer excellent fishing, mountain biking, and historical exploration of Native American mounds, Civil War sites, and colonial coastal forts.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Fall (October–November) are the premier times to visit Georgia parks. Spring brings spectacular azalea and dogwood blooms and rushing waterfalls in the northern mountains. Fall offers clear, crisp days and vibrant mountain foliage. Summer (June–September) is notoriously hot and humid; it’s best spent at high-elevation mountain parks or floating in cool rivers. Winter is mild in southern and coastal parks, making it an excellent time to visit the swamps and barrier islands without the intense summer heat and insects.
Visitor Tips
A $5 daily ParkPass is required for vehicle entry at most Georgia state parks, or frequent visitors can purchase an annual ParkPass for $50. Georgia is unique for its excellent, fully-equipped “glamping” options, yurts, and comfortable park lodges (like at Amicalola Falls and Unicoi). Advance reservations are highly recommended for weekend camping and lodging. When visiting swamp or coastal parks in warmer months, heavy-duty insect repellent is absolutely essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Georgia ParkPass cost?
A daily ParkPass costs $5 per vehicle. An annual ParkPass costs $50 and covers unlimited visits to all Georgia state parks and historic sites. The pass can be purchased at any park entrance or online.
What are the best state parks in north Georgia?
Top north Georgia parks include Amicalola Falls (tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast), Cloudland Canyon (dramatic gorge), Tallulah Gorge (one of the deepest canyons in the eastern US), and Vogel (alpine lake setting).
Can I hike to the start of the Appalachian Trail from a Georgia state park?
Yes, Amicalola Falls State Park is the official southern approach to the Appalachian Trail. The 8.5-mile Approach Trail connects the park to Springer Mountain, the trail’s southern terminus.
Are there yurts at Georgia state parks?
Yes, several Georgia state parks offer yurt and glamping accommodations, including Cloudland Canyon, Sweetwater Creek, and Red Top Mountain. These are popular alternatives to traditional tent camping and should be reserved well in advance.
Explore More Georgia State Parks
Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area is one of many outstanding state parks in Georgia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Georgia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Hart State ORA — 417 acres on Lake Hartwell (56,000 acres) — one of the largest lakes in the Southeast. The park’s lake, mixed forest, and shoreline support bald eagles, osprey, and great blue herons. Largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie are abundant.
Nearby Attractions
Hartwell — adjacent. Lake Hartwell — surrounding. Clemson, SC — 20 miles east. Tugaloo SP — 20 miles north.
More parks nearby: Tugaloo State Park is a short drive away, while Victoria Bryant State Park lies within about an hour’s drive.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required at all times; dogs may not be tied to trees or fences.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are banned from lodges, yurts and group camps; designated dog-friendly cottages are available for a $50 fee per dog (maximum 2 dogs) covering the entire stay.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $50 per dog (max 2) per stay in dog-friendly cottages.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Dogs prohibited on certain trails at Tallulah Gorge and Panola Mountain; fenced dog park at Laura S. Walker State Park; 'Tails on Trails Club' rewards program.
Are dogs allowed at Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area?
Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via gastateparks.org. More: Georgia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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