About VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)
Overview Van Pugh North Park lies approximately 15 miles north of Buford Dam on Lake Sidney Lanier. The site features beautiful views of the lake as well as excellent access to swimming, picnicking and boating. The lake, named for the poet, Sidney Lanier, is well known for its aqua-blue colored water, spectacular scenery and variety of recreational activities. Each year, approximately 11.8 million people come to visit. Recreation Visitors can access the Laurel Ridge Hiking Trail from multiple locations and parks. The trail is a 3.5 mile loop that offers great views of the lake and Chattahoochee River. Fisherman can expect to catch a variety of species including bass, catfish and panfish. Activities include fishing, swimming, wake boarding, kayaking and hiking.Facilities Van Pugh North Park offers access to picnic areas and restrooms.Natural Features Lake Lanier boasts 38,000 surface acres, 690 miles of shoreline and over 100 small islands. Its location in the forested foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, makes for a beautiful backdrop to any activity. Nearby Attractions Nearby attractions include boat ramps, other USACE parks and Lake Lanier Islands.
How to Get There
Physical address is 6838 Gaines Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch, GA 30542. From Georgia Highway 400, take exit 14 for Hwy 20 east, follow Hwy 20 east for approximately 10 miles and turn left on Peachtree Industrial Rd., turn left on Gaines Ferry Rd., road forks at end, turn right and road dead ends into park. From Interstate 985, take exit 8 and turn left on Friendship Rd. (Hwy 347), at third traffic light turn right at Mcever Rd., turn left on Gaines Ferry Rd., turn right at the fork, and the road dead ends into park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)
Heading to VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)?
No central reservation system listed for VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251924) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)?
Physical address is 6838 Gaines Ferry Rd., Flowery Branch, GA 30542. From Georgia Highway 400, take exit 14 for Hwy 20 east, follow Hwy 20 east for approximately 10 miles and turn left on Peachtree Industrial Rd., turn left on Gaines Ferry Rd., road forks at end, turn right and road dead ends into park. From Interstate 985, take exit 8 and turn left on Friendship Rd. (Hwy 347), at third traffic li…
How do I contact VAN PUGH NORTH PARK SHELTER (GA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 770-945-9531.
References & Official Resources
