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Georgia State Parks

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Georgia
Northeast Georgia Mountains Region
Hart State Park
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HART STATE PARK
HART STATE PARK
330 Hart State Park Road
Hartwell, Georgia   30643

Phone: 706-213-2045
Reservations: 800-864-7275
Swimming, boating, water skiing and fishing at Lake Hartwell are prime reasons to visit Hart State Park in northeast Georgia. Large mouth bass, hybrid bass, striper, black crappie, bream, rainbow trout and wall-eyed pike can be found in the sparkling waters of this 55,590-acre reservoir. The park?s boat ramps and docks offer easy access to all water sports. A swimming beach and numerous picnic tables are also provided. Cottages and most campsites are located on the scenic lake shore.
History of the Area
Located in Hartwell, Georgia, this park was established as a state recreational area in 1953. It covered around 147 acres of land and offered various outdoor activities such as camping, fishing and boating.

In the late '90s it faced closure due to budget cuts but local efforts kept it open until its transition into city management occurred. In January 2013, control transferred from the State Department of Natural Resources to the City of Hartwell.

The site is now known as "Hart County Recreation Park" under municipal operation offering similar amenities with added features like disc golf courses.

Camping
1. Tent Camping: Hart State Park offers primitive tent camping sites with fire rings and picnic tables.

2. RV Camping: The park provides full-hookup campsites for recreational vehicles, including electricity, water, and sewerage facilities.

3. Group Campsites: Large group campgrounds are available that can accommodate multiple tents or small trailers together in one area.

4. Lakeside Sites: Some of the campsites offer beautiful views overlooking Lake Hartwell for a serene camping experience.

5. Backcountry Hiking/Camping Trailheads: For adventurous visitors who prefer seclusion over amenities.

6. Picnic Shelters Rental: Ideal option if you're planning to have an outdoor gathering during your stay at the park.
Swimming
1. Hart State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. The park's lake is open to swimmers during daylight hours only.
4. Swimming areas can be accessed easily from the camping and picnic sites in the park.
5. There are no indoor or pool facilities available; all swimming is done in natural water bodies within the park grounds.


Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There are two boat ramps available, providing easy access to the waters of Hartwell Lake which spans 55,590 acres and is ideal for sailing or motorized boats. Kayaks and canoes can also be launched from various points around the lake's shoreline. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities with numerous species inhabiting the water including bass, bream and catfish among others.

Fishing
Located in Georgia, the park offers fishing options for bass, crappie and bream. Fishing docks are available year-round. There's also a boat ramp provided for those who prefer deep-water angling.


Location
Hart State Park is located near Anderson, Hartwell and Seneca

Picnicking
1. Hart State Park offers numerous picnic tables and grills for a fun, outdoor meal.
2. There are covered pavilions available for larger gatherings or parties.
3. Enjoy lakeside picnicking with stunning views of Lake Hartwell.
4. Picnic spots near playgrounds make it ideal for families with children.
5. Visitors can rent paddleboards after their picnic to explore the lake further.


Trails
1. Lake Hartwell Trail: This 2-mile trail offers a scenic view of the lake, suitable for hikers and bikers alike.

2. Nature Loop Trail: A short half mile loop that takes you through various types of vegetation in the park.

3. Forest Hill Trail: At just under one mile long, this is an easy hike with minimal elevation changes perfect for beginners or families with young children.

4. Lakeside Pathway: An approximately three miles round trip path along the shoreline offering beautiful views over Lake Hartwell; it's also wheelchair accessible making it ideal for all abilities to enjoy nature's beauty.

5. Wildlife Observation Point Walkway: Although not technically a hiking trail, this paved walkway leads visitors to wildlife observation points throughout the park where they can spot local fauna such as deer and birds.

6. Campground Connector Trails: These trails connect different campgrounds within Hart State Park providing convenient access between camping areas while enjoying forested paths; lengths vary depending on specific routes taken by hikers.

7. Picnic Area Paths: Short pathways leading from parking lots to picnic spots scattered around lakeshore area provide opportunities for leisurely strolls amidst natural settings.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. Be aware, some paths are challenging.

The park offers numerous biking routes through scenic landscapes and wildlife habitats. Exercise caution while cycling.

Mountain bikers should be prepared to encounter steep inclines and rough terrain on certain tracks within the area.

Cyclists must adhere strictly to trail rules for safety reasons due to occasional high traffic from hikers or joggers too.

Rental bikes may not always be available; bringing your own equipment is advisable if possible.

Remember that helmets are mandatory when riding in this location, as per state law regulations.

Always stay alert during rides since local fauna like deer might unexpectedly cross pathways at times.

Night-time bicycling isn't recommended because visibility decreases significantly after sunset causing potential hazards.




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Exit Landmark Realty - HARTWELL, GA
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Need local real estate information The staff at Exit Landmark Realty is absolutely committed to fulfilling the needs of our clients with the highest level of professionalism, expertise and service. Our commitment to your satisfaction is the foundation from which a solid business relationship is built.
2.6 miles from park*
Pets
- Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
- Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
- Pet owners should always have bags or other means to pick up pet waste.
- All pets must wear current vaccination tags and identification at all times within the park boundaries.
- Noisy, vicious, dangerous or intimidating dogs of any breed are not allowed in the park.
- Dogs may not be left unattended outside during quiet hours (10 p.m.-7 a.m.).
- Pets are prohibited from entering public buildings such as restrooms and visitor centers unless they're service animals.
- Dogs cannot enter swimming areas including beaches and water parks inside Hart State Park premises.
- In campgrounds, maximum two domesticated pets per site is permitted; additional fees apply if exceeded this limit.


Directions
From Atlanta, Georgia:

- Start on I-85 N from Washington St SW and Capitol Ave SE.
- Follow I-85 N to GA - 17 S in Banks County.
- Take exit 173 for GA - 17 toward Toccoa/Lavonia.

Next steps:

- Turn right onto GA - 17 S (signs for Lavonia).
- Follow US -29S/US-129 ALT South/GA -8W
- Merge with Franklin Springs Street via the ramp towards Royston/Hartwell

Continuing further:

- Proceed straight through traffic lights at junction of Bowersville Highway/Franklin Springs Street.
- Carry on along Athens street until you reach a fork; take left turn here into E Howell Street
- E Howell becomes Reed Creek Hwy after crossing railroad tracks.

Final directions:

- On reaching Hart State Park signboard, make a sharp right turn into Ridge Road.
- The park entrance is about half mile down this road.

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Georgia State Parks

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