Dockery Lake Recreation Area
4.3334 reviews950 Dockery Lake Rd, Dahlonega, GA, 30533
Quick Facts
Price
$4 - $8/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open season: 4/1-12/...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$4 - $8/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open season: 4/1-12/...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsDockery Lake Recreation Area
$4.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$8 per night during peak season (4/1-10/31), $4 per night during non-peak season (11/1-12/31).
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$8.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider706-745-6928
What Campers Say
4.33
Recommended
Based on 34 reviews
76 Google reviews
Most mentioned
locationhikingwell-maintainedsites
"Overall, Dockery Lake Recreation Area is praised as a peaceful and scenic campground with a strong sense of community among campers. Many visitors highlight the simplicity of the facilities and the stunning natural backdrop. However, some negative reviews mention maintenance issues and limited privacy at certain sites."
Fees & Passes at Dockery Lake Recreation Area
$4 - $8/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellation...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Forest Service, Blue Ridge Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Dockery Lake Recreation Area
Each season paints Dockery Lake in dramatically different hues. Autumn transforms the mountainside into a breathtaking tapestry of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that draw visitors from across the region. Summer brings gentle mountain breezes and cool shade beneath the dense tree cover, offering relief from the heat of lower elevations. Winter occasionally works its magic, transforming the lake into a crystalline wonderland when temperatures dip low enough to freeze its surface. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and the songs of returning birds.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1st to October 31st.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season: 4/1-12/31. Closed season: 1/1-3/31.
- Current Alerts: /Potential road hazards/ (potholes) on the access road due to washboarding.
About Dockery Lake Recreation Area
Tucked away in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Dockery Lake Recreation Area offers an intimate escape where 11 thoughtfully placed campsites nestle beneath a canopy of deciduous and evergreen trees. This hidden gem centers around a pristine 6-acre lake, regularly stocked with trout, creating the perfect backdrop for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds. Here, dappled sunlight filters through the forest canopy while wildlife moves quietly through the understory, offering campers a genuine connection with nature.
Dockery Lake Recreation Area offers primitive camping options suitable for tents and small pop-up campers. It is an ideal site for those seeking a quiet, off-grid experience.
Historical SignificanceDockery Lake holds a special place in the hearts of generations who have discovered its peaceful shores within the Chattahoochee National Forest. This cherished recreation area has become woven into family traditions, with visitors returning year after year to relive childhood memories and create new ones. The lake stands as a testament to thoughtful conservation, where natural beauty and recreational enjoyment have coexisted harmoniously for decades, creating a legacy that continues to draw families seeking authentic outdoor experiences.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Dockery Lake in dramatically different hues. Autumn transforms the mountainside into a breathtaking tapestry of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that draw visitors from across the region. Summer brings gentle mountain breezes and cool shade beneath the dense tree cover, offering relief from the heat of lower elevations. Winter occasionally works its magic, transforming the lake into a crystalline wonderland when temperatures dip low enough to freeze its surface. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and the songs of returning birds.
ElevationPerched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dockery Lake Recreation Area offers the refreshing climate and stunning vistas that only mountain elevation can provide. Though specific elevation details vary across the terrain, campers will immediately notice the crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures that make this highland retreat a welcome respite during warmer months.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crystalline waters of Dockery Lake reflect the surrounding peaks of the Cedar Ridge like a natural mirror, creating picture-perfect moments throughout the day. This carefully maintained 6-acre lake, carved into the mountainside and regularly stocked with eager trout, serves as the centerpiece of a diverse ecosystem. Ancient hardwoods and towering evergreens create a multi-layered forest where deer browse at dawn, wild turkeys strut through clearings, and black bears occasionally lumber past, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving wilderness. Fall transforms this already stunning landscape into one of North Georgia's most spectacular natural theaters.
Geological RegionDockery Lake Recreation Area claims its place within the ancient Cedar Ridge range of the Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the vast Chattahoochee National Forest system. The campground's unique position near a babbling tributary of Waters Creek adds the constant, soothing soundtrack of flowing water to the mountain experience. The 6-acre lake itself represents human ingenuity working in harmony with natural topography, creating a mountain oasis that feels as if it has always belonged among these timeless peaks and valleys.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground lacks detailed accessibility features. No explicit ADA-compliant facilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and suitable for both tent camping and small pop-up campers.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites offer a good level of privacy with dense foliage and space between sites. However, a few reviews mentioned limited privacy due to sparse tree coverage between certain sites.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider Site 7 for proximity to water and spacious setup. Site 11 is recommended for solitude. Site 9 offers good views of Dockery Lake.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 2 vehicles per campsite and pets must be leashed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged close to a central point near the lake. Sites are spaced to offer privacy but proximity to the lake and facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: 4/1-12/31. Closed season: 1/1-3/31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot clearly stated; however, historical comments suggest that the campground may have transitioned from first-come, first-served to reservation-only via Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than one day before the arrival date. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur additional penalties.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Dockery Lake Recreation Area offers a mix of activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The recreation opportunities are enhanced by its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and the tranquil setting of Dockery Lake.
Hiking
Two main hiking trails are available: the Lakeshore Trail (a 0.5-mile easy loop around the lake) and the Dockery Lake Trail (3.5 miles leading to the Appalachian Trail at Miller Gap). The trails feature diverse terrain and are marked for ease of navigation. User reviews highlight the natural beauty and moderate difficulty of the trails, with blue trail markers aiding hikers.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at Dockery Lake, which is stocked with trout. However, some reviewers noted that fishing can be hit or miss depending on the season, with spring generally offering better conditions.Boating
Only non-motorized boating, such as canoeing and kayaking, is permitted. Electric motors are allowed. There are no dedicated docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
The area offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, turkey, bear, and various bird species. The lush forest and serene lake make it a prime spot for nature observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities include solitude camping and off-season hiking. Reviews highlighted the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for off-grid experiences in the winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are supported at the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only permitted in designated grills. Fires must be extinguished before checkout and cannot be left unattended.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity, requiring strict food storage rules. The campground does not have cell service, which may pose challenges during emergencies.
Active alerts/Potential road hazards/ (potholes) on the access road due to washboarding.
Weather at Dockery Lake Recreation Area
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include:
- Nearest hospital: Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Dahlonega, GA (12 miles)
- Police services available in Dahlonega, GA (12 miles)
- Nearest ranger station: Blue Ridge Ranger District Office, Blairsville, GA (22 miles)
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1st to October 31st.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but visitors are encouraged to pack out as much trash as possible upon check-out. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Dockery Lake, a 6-acre man-made trout-stocked lake. The campground offers immediate access to the lake and nearby streams.
Common complaintsComplaints include clogged toilets, locked facilities during off-peak seasons, and inconsistent water pump functionality.
HostNo information available about campground hosts.
Campground Map
950 Dockery Lake Rd, Dahlonega, GA, 30533
Driving directionsFrom Blairsville, GA take U.S. 19/129 south for 10.0 miles, turn right on GA Hwy 180. Go approximately 11.0 miles. Turn left on GA Highway 60, go 4.0 miles to Forest Service Road 654 on the left. Turn left, go 1.0 mile to campground. From Dahlonega, GA take GA Highway 60 north approximately 13 miles to Forest Service Road 654 on the right. Turn right, go 1.0 mile to campground.
Access requires driving on Forest Service Road 654, which may have significant potholes and washboard areas as noted by user reviews. The road is unpaved and can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Seasonal closures occur from 1/1-3/31 when the campground is closed.Nearby places
- Dahlonega, GA: 12 miles, approximately 20 minutes
- Blairsville, GA: 22 miles, approximately 30 minutes
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Dahlonega, GA, approximately 12 miles away. Walmart is noted as a reliable location for firewood and water, and general supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
34 reviews
Dockery Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Dockery Lake Recreation Area is praised as a peaceful and scenic campground with a strong sense of community among campers. Many visitors highlight the simplicity of the facilities and the stunning natural backdrop. However, some negative reviews mention maintenance issues and limited privacy at certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects commonly mentioned include the tranquility of the location, well-maintained campsites, great fishing opportunities, and proximity to hiking trails. Many reviewers also appreciated...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include maintenance issues, such as locked or clogged toilets and non-functional water pumps. A few visitors noted that the access road has potholes and can be challenging to...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra supplies, such as water and firewood, as on-site amenities are limited. They also suggest arriving early on weekends or holidays to secure a campsite due to the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During the peak season (April to October), the campground is more crowded, but facilities such as flush toilets and drinking water are available. The fall season is particularly popular due to the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Such an awesome little campground! We brought our two furbabies here for their very first camping trip and we were not disappointed." - Adriana Morales. "Amazing hidden gem! The campground is small...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is spacious and close to the water, offering great views and easy trail access. Site 9, a lakefront site, has been highlighted for its calm atmosphere, though some maintenance issues were...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific feedback about accessibility accommodations was provided in the reviews.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the campground, and many visitors brought their dogs. The hiking trails were noted as being pet-friendly, making it an enjoyable experience for both pets and their owners.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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