Dockery Lake Recreation Area

What if a camping getaway could transport you to a tranquil retreat surrounded by towering hardwoods, a serene trout-stocked lake, and a direct connection to the Appalachian Trail? Dockery Lake Recreation Area, located just 12 miles north of Dahlonega, Georgia, offers an intimate campground experience with 11 primitive campsites arranged along the picturesque 6-acre Dockery Lake. This campground stands out for its peaceful setting, which provides an ideal backdrop for reflective solitude or quality time with loved ones.

Situated within the Chattahoochee National Forest, the campground features basic but comfortable amenities, including tent pads, picnic tables, lantern posts, fire grills, and centrally located drinking water (seasonally available). While there are no hookups or showers, a flush restroom serves the camping area, and a vault toilet is available at the nearby day-use area. The site is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts interested in fishing from the lake's shore, exploring the 0.5-mile Lakeshore Trail, or embarking on the more challenging 3.7-mile Dockery Lake Trail that connects to the Appalachian Trail at Miller Gap.

The area’s location offers quick access to some of North Georgia’s most celebrated hiking trails and is only a 30-minute drive from Dahlonega, a charming town known for its historic square and cultural appeal. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a rustic stopover while hiking the Appalachian Trail, Dockery Lake Recreation Area provides an immersive natural experience for those seeking unspoiled beauty and a break from modern distractions.