The Chattahooche Oconee National Forest information link

The following National Forest recreational areas are located in Lumpkin County and are only short distance from Dahlonega, Ga.

Chestatee Overlook 

Scenic vista 12 miles north of Dahlonega on Ga. Highway 60.. From this vantage point the view is of the mountains located in the Chestatee Wildlife Management area and Blood Mountain Wilderness Area.

Dockery Lake 

This popular 3 acre trout lake  has camping, picnicking, fishing and hiking available. The trail head providing access to the Appalachian Trail via a 3 mile trail to Miller Gap is located at the parking lot for Dockery Lake. A one half mile trail follows the lake shore. Dockery lake is 12 miles north of Dahlonega on Ga. Highway 60.  There is a central Camping area with 11 camping sites. Each site has tent pad, picnic table, fire ring/grill, lantern post and parking spur. Water and electrical hookups not available at campsites. There are two flush toilets and two drinking fountains with faucets. No showers are available.  There is a central Camping area with 11 camping sites. Each site has tent pad, picnic table, fire ring/grill, lantern post and parking spur. Water and electrical hookups not available at campsites. There are two flush toilets and two drinking fountains with faucets. No showers are available.

DeSoto Falls and DeSoto Falls Scenic Area 

The DeSoto falls Scenic Area is rugged mountainous country with exceptional views and several beautiful waterfalls. This Scenic Area, located on Frogtown Creek has 24 camping sites arranged in two loops. Each site has tent pad, picnic table, fire ring/grill, lantern post and parking spur. Water and electrical hookups not available. There are 4 low volume flush toilets in one loop and a modern restroom facility, and hot water outdoor showers in the other loop. Drinking fountains with faucets available in both loops. Camping usually opens in mid-May and closes in late October. Trout fishing available on Frogtown Creek. Hiking trails to nearby falls.
Located 17 miles north of Dahlonega on US Hwy. 19. Turn left at FS Sign.

Boggs Creek 

Thirteen primitive campsites are located on this pretty mountain stream 14 miles north of Dahlonega and 1.5 miles north of Turners Corner on Hwys 19N/129.
 

Woody Gap 

Scenic vista of Yahoola Valley. Appalachian Trail crosses Georgia State Hwy 60 at this point. Picnicking, Hiking. 14 miles north on Ga. Highway 60.  View is looking toward Dahlonega.

Waters Creek 

Day use area: Trout fishing is available on Dicks and Waters Creek. Upper Waters Creek is designated as a trophy trout stream.12 miles north of Dahlonega on US Hwy. 19. Turn left at Forest Service sign onto FS 34. Go 1 mile to camping area on the right.This falls is a popular summer swimming area.