Vogel State Park is one of Georgia’s oldest parks. Located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel is particularly popular during the fall. Hikers can explore a variety of trails; including an easy lake loop and a challenging 12-mile backcountry trail.

The trailhead for Bear Hair Gap and Byron Reece is located a short walk from the parking lot, away from the lake, across from cabin 7.

The Bear Hair Gap Trail to the popular overlook of Lake Vogel includes a few creek crossings. Keep in mind crossings can become tricky to navigate following heavy rains.

The Overlook off Bear Hair Trail provides a bird’s eye view of Lake Vogel below.

The Byron Herbert Reece Nature Trail is great if you’re looking for a short, fairly easy hike. You’ll know you’re on the right trail by all of the educational signage placed throughout.

The park’s lake is open to non-motorized boats. A sand beach welcomes swimmers seasonally. Kayaks, paddleboards, pedalboats and aquacycles are available to rent, as well as bikes.

The well-stocked Visitors Center sells everything from hiking snacks to heartier foods and local souvenirs.

The park’s Civilian Conservation Corps Museum tells the story of the Great Depression and the “CCC Boys”. The park also has a miniature golf course and a playground. Overnight guests can choose from cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites.

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ACCESSIBILITY NOTES:

Brick-style pathway with access to pavilion and wooden ramp to docks (without railings).

Wooden ramp to sand beach.

Parking and access to playgrounds and workout equipment by way of gravel paths and slatted ramp.