Sep 30, 2022

Surrounded by national forests, large reservoirs, and some of the most scenic nature reserves in the northern part of the state, the city of Dahlonega, GA, is a fantastic gateway to explore the region in your 2022 Ford Ranger. If you are searching for the best swimming spots to enjoy a summer day with your friends or family, here are three beautiful destinations you can reach in one hour or less from the city center.

 

1. River Forks Park

Featuring a 40,000-square-foot beach on the shores of Lake Lanier, River Forks Park is a well-known destination among swimmers and water sports enthusiasts from all over northern Georgia. Covering an area of about 112 acres, this park is located just 25 miles south of the Dahlonega city center and can be reached in a little over half an hour via route GA-60.

Some of the amenities that make this place a popular summertime destination include a large family campground equipped with electricity and water hookups, lakeside picnic areas, a public boat ramp, and a fishing pier. Open year-round between 10:00 am and 7:00 pm, River Forks Park is a great day trip destination for Dahlonega locals.

2. Don Carter State Park

Situated on the north end of Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park is a top-rated destination that draws thousands of visitors each year and offers excellent facilities for water lovers. Whether you want to swim, fish, hike, or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic with your friends, this public recreation area is a place you should definitely check out while exploring the region.

Some of the facilities that make Don Carter State Park a great weekend or day trip destination include a large network of multi-use trails, public boat ramps, a primitive camping area, a fully equipped campground, designated fishing spots, and a long beach. Located a little over 20 miles southeast of the Dahlonega city center, this state park can be reached in about half an hour via route GA-52.

3. Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area

Located about 55 miles northwest of downtown Dahlonega, Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area is another fantastic summertime destination where you can swim, hike, camp, and enjoy many other recreational activities in an idyllic nature reserve. Open year-round between 7:00 am and 8:30 pm, this place features picnic spots, a 43-unit campground, and a kayak rental shop. Getting here takes about one hour by car via route GA-52.

If you are searching for a trusted local dealership to buy a new or used vehicle in Dahlonega, visit us today at Chestatee Ford! One of our expert team members will tell you all about our latest models and the flexible financing plans we have available for our customers.