Big Hammock Wildlife Management Area (Tattnall)

Big Hammock Wildlife Management Area provides boat access to the Altamaha River, one of Georgia's major river systems. The Altamaha is a large, well-established river with a drainage area of nearly 14,000 square miles and an average flow of over 14,500 cubic feet per second. This access point is located in Tattnall County near the lower reaches of the river, approximately 134 miles upstream from the river mouth where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

The Altamaha River at this location features moderate current typical of a major river system, with an average velocity of 3.45 feet per second and a gentle gradient of 0.6 feet per mile. Water conditions are generally manageable for experienced paddlers and boaters, though the river's size and flow should command respect. The river's elevation change from source to mouth is about 81 feet over its 134-mile length, indicating a relatively stable waterway in this lower coastal plain section.

Access through the Wildlife Management Area means this site may have specific regulations regarding use and access hours. Paddlers and boaters should contact Georgia Department of Natural Resources for current information about permitted activities, seasonal restrictions, and any fees associated with the access point. The site is suitable for various watercraft including motorboats, canoes, and kayaks, though conditions and regulations should be verified before visiting.