Area Lakes, Camping & Hiking Trails

Lake Winfield Scott

Completed in 1942, Lake Winfield Scott is the lasting legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps in north Georgia. Named for General Winfield Scott, who led the United States Army for forty years and ran for President in 1852. This beautiful setting features campsites, fishing, and some of the best hiking in the eastern United States, including two Appalachian Trail access trails.

About the area

The 18-acre lake that is the centerpiece of the park is the headwater of Cooper Creek, which winds from the lake to the Toccoa River. Two roads provide access to the park, although one (the north entrance) is only for lake access. The other allows access to the summer home area, hiking trails, and lakeshore facilities including a boat launch, dock and swimming area. A modest fee is required ($2.00 when we last visited in 1999).

Campsites are large and wooded. Each has a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. The 36 sites are divided into two areas.

Deep Hole

Deep Hole Recreation Area has toilets and drinking water available. Each camp site is equipped with a picnic table, tent pad and grill. Restrooms and some campsites are accessible to people with disabilities; path to canoe launch and fishing deck is also accessible.

Vogel State Park

One of Georgia's oldest and most popular state parks, Vogel is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Driving from the south, visitors pass through Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. Vogel is particularly popular during the fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a rolling blanket of red, yellow and gold leaves. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, including the popular four-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, an easy one-mile lake loop, and the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail. Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations. The park's 22-acre lake is open to non-motorized boats. During summer, visitors can cool off at the scenic lakeside beach.