Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of activities do you offer at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
The park offers many outdoor activities. Hiking, fishing, picnicking, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and family programs. For more information first go to Plan Your Visit. If you still have questions call the Visitor Contact Station at 678-538-1200.

Does the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area rent boats?
The park does not rent boats directly but outfitters are required to obtain a permit from the park to rent rafts, tubes, canoes, and kayaks for day use on the river. For more information about renting a boat visit our Boat Rentals page.

Where can I camp at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Camping is not permitted in the park. We are a day use park open from Dawn (30 min. before legal sunrise) to Dark (30 min. after legal sunset.)

What is required to fish on the Chattahoochee River?
Anyone over the age of 15 must have a valid Georgia fishing license with a Trout stamp in order to fish on the Chattahoochee River. The purchase of your trout stamp supports the stocking of Rainbow and Brown trout in the Chattahoochee River. Fishing licenses can be purchased at most sporting goods stores, Walmarts, or online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website.

Are bicycles allowed on the trails at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Bicycles are allowed only on designated trails in the Cochran Shoals unit of the park. Riding bikes on undesignated trails erodes the trails and harms the environment.

Are dogs allowed at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Dogs are allowed on the trails in the park but they must remain on a leash at all times. Leashes may not exceed six feet and are required for the safety of visitors as well as the dogs themselves. Visitors must be holding the leash and in physical control of the pet at all times. Pets may not be left unattended or tied to an object. Pet owners are required to clean up after their dogs and dispose of the waste properly. Most locations have bags provided but bring extras in case they are depleted. Cleaning up after pets helps to protect the water quality of the river.

Does my America the Beautiful - the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass apply to the entrance fee at the park?
The America the Beautiful - the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is valid in the park. They are available from the ranger at the Island Ford Visitor Contact Station located at 1978 Island Ford Parkway in Sandy Springs, Georgia. For more information about the program visit https://www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm.

We want to have a group event at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. How do I go about reserving a pavilion or area?
Picnic areas in the park are available on a first-come, first-serve basis unless you have over 20 people in your group. A permit is required to reserve an area, go to our Permits & Reservations page to find out more..

Is grilling allowed at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Yes, grilling is allowed and most park areas have grills installed in the picnic areas. You may also bring your own grill but we ask that you thoroughly extinguish all fires to prevent a forest fire.

Is alcohol allowed at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
Alcohol is permitted in the park and on the river. Designate a driver if you plan on drinking at the park so that you may have a safe ride home.

Are glass containers allowed at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area?
While glass containers are discouraged in the park, they are prohibited on the river or river banks. When visiting the park please pick up your trash and be considerate of other park visitors.

Where can I get my National Parks Passport book stamped?
Visit the Island Ford Visitor Contact Station to get your passport book stamped. The Visitor Contact Station is open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year except December 25th.

Don't see your question here? Call the Visitor Contact Station at 678-538-1200.

Last updated: October 25, 2017

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1978 Island Ford Parkway
Sandy Springs, GA 30350

Phone:

678-538-1200
Call 770-992-6585 for non-emergency law enforcement assistance for any event that does not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of visitors or employees. Examples of when to call 770-992-6585 are for property crime (car break-ins, vandalism), suspicious activity, or a threat to the park's resources (digging). Dial 911 when there is a direct threat to the health and safety of visitors or employees. Examples of when to dial 911 are for missing person, fire, physical altercation, or injury.

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