Nestled in the foothills of northwest Georgia, Dawson County is a serene and quiet place to live and work, and a perfect place for nature enthusiasts! There’s a great variety of things to do and places to see in Dawson, here are some of our favorites.

From hiking and camping, to golfing and rafting, to history and horseback riding, Dawson County has a lot to offer visitors and residents, alike. For those who choose to build their home in Dawson County, here is what awaits you!

Hiking and Backpacking

Dawson features some of the state’s best hiking locations. At Amicalola Falls State Park, you can take in the breathtaking view from the top of a cascading waterfall, enjoy a creekside hike on the Mountain Laurel Loop, or hike to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail. Another great option is a stay at the Len Foote Hike Inn, a unique backcountry inn that is only accessible by a 5.5 mile trail starting at the top of Amicalola Falls. Offering basic accommodations and food, this hideaway is a great alternative for those wanting a backpacking experience, without having to carry all their food and camping gear.

Fun on the Water

With several rivers and Lake Lanier, Dawson is full of opportunities for those who enjoy fishing, boating, and paddling. Amicalola River is perfect for whitewater rafting, with Class II to Class IV rapids and the well-known Edge of the World rapid. There are plenty of guided tours for those who are interested. Etowah River offers another option for kayaking and canoeing, and for those more interested in lake activities, Lake Lanier is situated on Dawson County’s eastern border.

Other Outdoor Activities

If you’re looking for something else to do outside, you have plenty of options right in Dawson County! If you enjoy golfing, Chestatee Golf Club offers the par 71 Denis Griffiths 18-hole course. You can also enjoy a horseback ride through the Dawson County Wildlife Management Area, cycling at the Atlanta Tract sports trails, hayrides and baked goods at Burt’s Farm, finding your way through Uncle Shuck’s corn maze, searching for local Geocaching sites, or do some bird watching! There are several unique and beautiful farms in the area, with everything from a 15-acre sunflower field, to pumpkin patches, to country stores.

Other Attractions

For the racing enthusiasts, Dawson County is home to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, and Atlanta Motorsports Park, where you can take a ride in an exotic car or race around the track in a high speed cart! More interested in art and history? The Southeast’s largest folk art gallery Around Back at Rocky’s Place, is also located in the area, along with the Bowen Center for the Arts, and the historic Dawson County Courthouse. Dawson County also offers unique retailers and antique shops, plenty of restaurants, as well as the North Georgia Premium Outlets, for whatever you’re in the market for.