Pets allowed
Allowed
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
Yes
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Though not very large in area, this is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful state parks in Georgia. Vogel is known for its small lake and cascading waterfall tucked into a wooded cove, all at the foot of two proud mountains with deceptively unattractive names--Slaughter Mountain and Blood Mountain. These are supposedly named from a Cherokee legend of a great battle that once took place near here. The mountains are part of the Blood Mountain Wilderness in Chattahoochee National Forest, which borders the park and effectively adds a lot of mileage and scenery to trails you can explore from Vogel.

Recreation here is good in all seasons. Summer is the time for swimming and paddling in the lake, and winter is for snowy trails and wide vistas through the leafless trees. Sitting at over 2000 feet above sea level and nestled at the foot of 4,000-foot mountains, Vogel is first to feel the fall in Georgia and light up with color.

The park is one of the oldest state parks in Georgia, and it was constructed by the CCC in the 1930s. Crews of local men hired during the Great Depression built the earthen dam and reservoir as well as structures, roads, and trails that remain today. A small museum in the park preserves their legacy.

Hiking and Backpacking

  • Trahlyta Lake Trail: Easy 1-mile loop around the lake that leads to the waterfall at the lake's far end. Take the short but steep descent on a staircase to stand on a viewing platform right beside the falls.
  • Byron Herbert Reece Nature Trail: Easy loop of less than a mile that explores Appalachia's especially diverse forest.
  • Bear Hair Gap Trail: A 4-mile loop that begins near the campground and travels up into the foothill forest for a backcountry feel and one incredible view over the lake. Along the way are trickling streams, wildflowers, boulder gardens, and chances to see wildlife
  • Coosa Backcountry Trail: This 13-mile loop is mostly within the Chattahoochee National Forest and Blood Mountain Wilderness, but one access point is from the state park. This is where you can take an overnight backpacking trip (with a free permit from the visitor center) or a challenging day hike. The route can also be linked with the Appalachian Trail on Blood Mountain.

Swimming, Paddling, and Fishing

  • Trahlyta Lake: Small, picturesque reservoir that empties into Trahlyta Falls. On the water you can paddle your own boat or board, or rent one. There is a designated swimming area with a sandy beach. On the lakeshore are a few fishing docks and viewing platforms. Fishing is allowed with valid license.

Camping and Lodging

  • Vogel State Park Campground: Sites for RVs, cars, and tents including walk-in sites and primitive camping for groups. The campground is a bit removed from the lake, but it is close to trailheads.
  • Cabins: 1- to 3-bedroom cottages are available for reservation, and all central to the lake, trailheads, and park facilities.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Park entrance fee

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Waterfall. Lake. Backcountry trails.

Cons

Small area. Can be crowded.

Features

ADA accessible
Campgrounds + Campsites
Amphitheater
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Flushing toilets
Bicycling
Potable water
Picnic tables
Off-leash dog area
Covered picnic areas
Volleyball
Waterfalls
Fishing
Playground
Bird watching
Wildlife
Family friendly

Site type

Full hookups
Cabins

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

09/03/2018
I have been out on the Coosa Backcountry trail a couple of times for overnight stays. Labor Day of 2018 trail buddy and I headed counter clockwise for about two miles of pretty level hike for an overnight at second campsite in, the first with water (more of a creek). First mile of hike out from state park is slightly uphill till you cross a road. Nice level site with fire ring and plenty of small sticks to make a fire. Previous trip out was a solo late spring could not find sixth or seventh official campsite. Loved jumping in the lake after getting back to state park.
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