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Chattahoochee Camp + Paddle Trail
Overview
The Chattahoochee Camp + Paddle Trail is a multi-day river adventure connecting parks, paddle launches, and riverside campsites along the Chattahoochee River stretching approximately 48 miles through metro Atlanta.
Along the Trail
The Chattahoochee Camp + Paddle Trail is a fun way to explore the river by kayak or canoe. Along the trail, paddle-in campsites offer places to camp, picnic, shower, and relax by the water. As you travel, you may see forests, rocky river sections, birds, turtles, fish, and other wildlife.
Each stop along the Camp + Paddle Trail is different, from busy places near the city of Atlanta to quiet campsites farther downriver in Chattahoochee Hills and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a camping experience, the trail is a great way to explore the Chattahoochee River. Use the links below to learn more about the Camp + Paddle Trail sites and plan your next adventure!
Trail history
For decades, the Chattahoochee River was defined by pollution, neglect, and limited public access. As Metro Atlanta grew, development often turned its back on the river, leaving many residents disconnected from one of the region’s greatest natural resources. Thanks to the tireless efforts of organizations including Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, the National Park Service, Friends of the River, and many other advocates, the Chattahoochee has undergone a remarkable recovery. Their work to improve water quality, protect the river’s health, and restore public confidence in the river created new opportunities for people to experience and enjoy it.
Building on this momentum, the Trust for Public Land (TPL) identified a growing demand for outdoor recreation through the Chattahoochee RiverLands planning process, where community members consistently ranked camping and safe river access among the region’s most-needed amenities. In response, TPL launched the vision for the Chattahoochee Camp + Paddle Trail—a 48-mile water trail connecting paddlers and campers through the heart of the Atlanta region.
Working with local governments and community partners, TPL designed and built new river access points, boat launches, campsites, and supporting infrastructure. Advancing the goals of the RiverLands, the project included invasive species removal, native habitat restoration, and other environmental improvements that help protect the river and its wildlife for future generations.
The Camp + Paddle Trail was made possible through a combination of public and private investment, including a $2.1 million grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program (GOSP), administered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, along with generous support from private donors. Together, these investments have transformed the Chattahoochee into a one-of-a-kind outdoor recreation destination, creating new opportunities for people to paddle, camp, explore, and connect with the river.
