Two adult Great Blue Herons stand watch over their 3 young chicks in the nest.

National Recreation Area · Georgia

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Today the river valley attracts us for so many reasons. Take a solitary walk to enjoy nature’s display, raft leisurely through the rocky shoals with friends, fish the misty waters as the sun comes up, or have a picnic on a Sunday afternoon. Get Outdoors and experience your Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area as you have never done before.

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Things to do

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Paddling
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Stand Up Paddleboarding
  • Whitewater Rafting
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Tubing
  • River Tubing
  • Swimming
  • Freshwater Swimming
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store
  • Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Weather & when to go

Summers typically consist of long spells of warm, humid weather. Average highs are in the lower 90's and overnight lows range from the upper 60's to lower 70's. Winters are more variable with highs averaging from the mid 50's to lower 60's while the lows average in the mid 30's. Oftentimes, stretches of mild weather will alternate with cold spells. Spring and Autumn seasons are characterized by much variability from day to day and from year to year.

Entrance fees

  • Entrance - Per Person

    Required for visitors age 16+ entering on foot or by bicycle. Valid for one day.

    $5.00

  • Entrance - Private Vehicle

    Private vehicle pass admits one private vehicle and its occupants for one day.

    $5.00

  • Entrance - Motorcycle

    Valid for 1 day. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.

    $5.00

Operating hours

Park Hours

The park lands and waters are open for visitation from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset seven days a week. The Island Ford Visitor Center located in historic Hewlett Lodge is open from 9 am to 5 pm seven days a week except Thanksgiving Day and December 25.

FAQ

How much does it cost to visit Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Entrance to Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area costs $5.00 (Entrance - Per Person), $5.00 (Entrance - Private Vehicle), $5.00 (Entrance - Motorcycle). The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry at every NPS site.
What are the hours at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
The park lands and waters are open for visitation from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset seven days a week. The Island Ford Visitor Center located in historic Hewlett Lodge is open from 9 am to 5 pm seven days a week except Thanksgiving Day and December 25.
Do I need a reservation for Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.