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Access Site GA

Carters Ferry

Savannah River - Lake Hartwell Savannah River

Source: georgia_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Reed Creek, GA
County: Hart County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 34.40966553, -82.86412533
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Carter's Ferry Boat Ramp provides access to the Savannah River and Lake Hartwell for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorized boats. Located on Reed Creek in Hart County, Georgia, the ramp is part of the Elrod Ferry Recreation Area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The boat ramp is in good condition and can accommodate multiple vehicles and trailers. There is a courtesy dock available for loading and unloading. However, the site does not have restrooms, lighting, or other amenities, so paddlers and boaters should plan accordingly. The surrounding area features some bank access for those interested in shoreline put-ins.

Lake Hartwell is a large reservoir on the Savannah River, offering over 962 miles of shoreline for exploration by water. Paddlers can enjoy the lake's calm waters, while powerboaters will find ample room to navigate. The Savannah River itself is relatively wide and slow-moving in this section, making it well-suited for both paddling and small motorized craft. Nearby recreation areas and access points provide additional options for those looking to spend time on the water.
Federal Facility Information
888-893-0678 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview

Elrod Ferry Recreation Area is a 39 acre site situated on a gently sloping point that overlooks the lake near Hartwell Dam. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim...

Overview

Elrod Ferry Recreation Area is a 39 acre site situated on a gently sloping point that overlooks the lake near Hartwell Dam. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim areas/beaches, 1 volleyball pit, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. The area experiences intense public use during the peak recreation season.
Recreation
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is available for visitors' convenience, and three designated swimming beaches are located around the facility. Facilities
The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim areas/beaches, 1 volleyball pit, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Natural Features

Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added.
Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
Nearby Attractions
Charges & Cancellations


A $10 service fee will apply if you change or cancel a reservation more than 14 days in advance of arrival date. If you cancel a reservation within 14 days of your scheduled arrival date, you will forfeit the reservation fee.

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Nearby Recreation Areas
Hartwell Lake Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
Portman Marina On-site
Big Water Marina On-site
Amenities
parking