Dawson County Attractions

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Dawson County offers a wide variety of exciting experiences for the entire family. Visitors to our historic North Georgia mountain community can find great opportunities for shopping, outdoor adventure or just enjoying some of our local events and festivals.

Below you'll find a list of the most popular attractions in Dawson County. For more information about these and other attractions, please contact the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce at (706) 265-6278.

Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge

Dawson County is home to 729-foot Amicalola Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Amicalola Falls State Park surrounds the falls, and the Amicalola Falls Lodge is located at the top of the falls. All of the 57 rooms in the lodge offer spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Recreational activities include hiking, trout fishing, and sightseeing on the 1,020 acres of natural surroundings. Accommodations include lodging, meeting rooms, cabins, campsites, and the Len Foote Hike Inn. The Maple Restaurant, located in the lodge serves a home style buffet. Special programs are offered March through December.

Phone: (706) 265-4703 for park information or (706) 265-8888 for lodging
Website: Amicalola Falls State Park

Appalachian Trail

An 8 mile approach leading from Amicalola Falls State Park begins the 78 mile Georgia portion of this famous hiking trail to Maine. Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail is located 8.5 miles north of Amicalola Falls.

Phone: (706) 265-4703 (Amicalola Falls State Park)
Website: Appalachian Trail

Burt's Pumpkin Farm

A unique experience for all ages and a North Georgia tradition! Burt's Farm offers 40 acres of home grown pumpkins, popcorn, Indian corn, and ornamental gourds. Hayrides are offered September 1 - November 15. Located on GA 52, just south of Amicalola Falls State Park.

Phone: (706) 265-3701
Website: Burt's Pumpkin Farm

Chestatee Wildlife Preserve

Chestatee Wildlife Preserve specializes in preservation through education of exotic & domestic wildlife. The preserve is home to more than 125 species (450 animals!) from around the world, including rare Siberian white tigers.

Phone: (706) 864-9411
Website: Chestatee Wildlife Preserve

Dawson County Historic Courthouse & Jail

Located on the square in downtown Dawsonville, built in 1860. This is the oldest working courthouse in the state, and houses 5 offices and a courtroom. The Old Jail is located just off the Square and houses 9th District Opportunity. Visitors are welcome to come and tour the old prison cells and former living quarters of the county sheriff.

Phone: (706) 265-3744
Website: Ninth District Opportunity

Dawsonville Pool Room

Made famous by owner Gordon Pirkle, the Pool Room offers a family atmosphere containing an rare and unique collection of history and memorabilia on Bill Elliott's NASCAR career and early moonshine runners. The menu includes the famous made from scratch Bully Burgers and fresh-cut fries.

Phone: (706) 265-2792

Discover Dawson Driving Tours

From Dawsonville, access to the beautiful North Georgia countryside is simply a matter of picking a point on the compass and pointing your automobile in the right direction. The southern Appalachian Mountains loom over the foothills to the south and west with incredible views of nearby peaks including Springer Mountain, Burnt Mountain and Disharoon Mountain. On a clear day, the skyline of Atlanta, more than 40 miles distant, can be seen from several vantages. Choose from 5 scenic routes through the beautiful countryside of Dawson County and surrounding communities.

Phone: (706) 265-6278
Website: Dawson County Driving Tours

Lake Lanier

At 39,000 acres, Lake Lanier is the largest lake in Georgia and offers exciting outdoor activities including camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and other water sports.

Phone: (404) 945-9531 (US Army Corps of Engineers)
Website: Lake Lanier

Len Foote Hike Inn

An easy-to-moderate hike of 5 miles (2-4 hours) will take you past small streams and spectacular vistas in the state park and national forest. On a typical visit, hikers will arrive and choose their private room with shared porch. Dinner is served family style, followed by an evening of camaraderie and optional programs. After a hot breakfast, explore the wilderness around the lodge. The Appalachian Trail begins only a mile away at Springer Mountain. Advance reservations are required.

Phone: (800) 581-8032
Website: Len Foote Hike Inn

North Georgia Premium Outlets

140 name-brand outlet stores in an attractive outdoor village setting. Stores include Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, Cole Haan, Hugo Boss, J.Crew, Kenneth Cole, Liz Claiborne, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, Williams-Sonoma Outlet and more.

Phone: (706) 216-3609
Website: North Georgia Premium Outlets

Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze

Uncle Shuck's offers a unique twist to the time-honored fall trip to the pumpkin patch. The Corn Maze is a fun family activity for the young and old!

Phone: (888) OSHUCKS
Website: Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze

For more information about these and other attractions in Dawson County, please contact the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce at (706) 265-6278.