Lake Lanier's only state park: kayak and paddleboard rentals at the beach, calm north-end water and a sandy swim area.
Don Carter State Park is the only Georgia state park on Lake Lanier. It sits on the quiet north end of the lake near Gainesville, where the water narrows toward the Chattahoochee River and big-boat traffic thins out, which makes it one of the best places on Lanier to kayak or paddleboard.
The concession by the beach rents kayaks, paddleboards and aquacycles, mostly on summer weekends. Call ahead to confirm hours, especially in spring and fall.
Lake Lanier's only state park, on the quiet north end. The beach concession rents kayaks, paddleboards and aquacycles, mostly on summer weekends, and the park has its own boat ramps and a sand swim beach. State park parking fee applies.
| Address | 5000 N Browning Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506 |
|---|---|
| Run by | Georgia State Parks |
| Parking | $5 state park parking fee, or a Georgia State Parks annual pass |
| Beach | About 100 yards of sand with a gentle slope and a big shallow area; outdoor showers nearby |
| Launch | Boat ramps, plus beach launches for kayaks and boards |
| Also here | Campsites, cottages, hiking and horse trails, playgrounds |
Head up the coves along the park's shoreline, or follow the lake north as it narrows toward the river. The water here is calmer than the main lake to the south. Mornings and weekdays are quietest. More on where to paddle.
Other north-end launches: Lake Lanier Olympic Park and the city parks on the Upper Lanier Water Trail. Compare all Gainesville kayak rentals.