Smithgall Woods - Dukes Creek Conservation Area - Helen, Georgia




Rating

Overview

Smithgall Woods-Dukes Creek Conservation Area is by far an outdoorsman's dream come true. Hiking, biking and fishing are the parks biggest attraction. The park is still relatively new, established in 1994, so it is not as touristy as most state parks.

This area. some 5,555 acres, was as a gift-purchase from Charles A. Smithgall, Jr, a noted conservationist and businessman. Governor Zell Miller dedicated it as a Heritage Preserve, ensuring this spectacular estate will remain protected for future generations. North Georgia's premier trout stream, Dukes Creek, runs through the property and is available for catch-and-release fishing with special regulations. Four miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Quota hunts are offered during spring, fall and winter months.

Trout fishing, shuttle service and guided tours offered only on certain days of the week. Call for current schedules and to make reservations. All visitors must register at the visitor center.

Activities & Amenities

	Picnicking		Biking		Group Camping
	Hiking Trails		Trout Fishing (Fly Fishing Only)		Restrooms
	Wildlife Viewing Areas		Hunting		Lodge

Hiking and Biking

Visitors are invited to hike the site's roads and trails. Currently, there are four hiking trails.
- The Laurel Ridge Interpretive Trail is 1.5 miles beginning
   at the visitor center.
- The Wetland Loop is 1/2 mile beginning 1.3 miles from
   the visitor center.
- Martin's Mine Trail is 1.5 miles - beginning 2.1 miles
   from   the visitor center.
- Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail is 1.5 miles - beginning 2.8 miles from the visitor center.

Mountain bikers may use the 12 miles of improved roads that wind through the property. On Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays a shuttle service is provided to help guests in accessing the trails. Please call for current shuttle times. Permits are required for biking and hiking and are available at the visitor center. Cars are not allowed inside the property.


Wildlife Photography

If you're into wildlife photography then this is the place for you. The park has many great locations with open grassy fields and some with a variety of plants that have been grown to attract birds and animals. There are 2 wildlife viewing towers that are camouflaged and strategically located overlooking these open fields. Great for viewing deer, rabbit, and an abundance of birds.

Trout Fishing

Dukes Creek is a year round trout stream with special regulations. Trout fishing is catch and release using artificial lures with barbless hooks. Everything you carry must be barbless and artificial. Days open for fishing are Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. March through August there is a morning and evening session with 15 anglers per session. October through February there is a single session with 15 anglers per day. For safety reasons, fishing is closed during our big game hunts. Due to limited numbers of anglers allowed on Dukes Creek, it is best to reserve a fishing permit in advance. Anglers must have a valid fishing license and trout stamp, as well as a permit from the Conservation Area. For your convenience, licenses can be purchased at the visitor center.

Group Camping

The primitive group camp facility is an excellent choice for Scout Groups, Church Groups, Service Organizations, etc. It consists of ten individual tent pads, group fire ring, picnic tables and primitive restrooms. The campground can be reserved up to 6 months in advance. Each group will have exclusive use of the camp. A $5 per person donation is requested.

The Lodge at Smithgall Woods

The Lodge provides a perfect setting for corporate retreats or romantic getaways. It is compromised of fourteen bedrooms in five distinctive cottages, all with private baths, phones, and cable. Rates include lodging, meals, meeting facilities, leisure and interpretive activities. It is an ideal spot for small weddings, team building of family retreats.

Lodge Rates:
Season: April 1 - November 30
Corporate Rates Sunday-Thursday
Room Type:  Room         F&B        SGWF            Total
Run of House:
     Single:     $152.00     $87.00     $50.00          $289.00
     Double:    $175.00    $174.00     $50.00         $399.00
One Bedroom Cottage:
     Single:    $232.00     $87.00      $50.00          $369.00
     Double:   $255.00     $174.00    $50.00          $479.00

Leisure Rates - Friday & Saturday (Two night minimum)
Room Type:
    Single:    $127.00      $62.00     $50.00          $239.00
    Double:   $125.00      $124.00   $50.00          $299.00
One Bedroom Cottage:
    Single:    $177.00      $62.00     $50.00          $289.00
    Double:   $175.00      $124.00   $50.00          $349.00

Nearby Attractions

Unicoi State Park and Lodge
Anna Ruby Falls
Alpine Village of Helen
Dahlonega Gold Museum
Vogel State Park
Moccasin Creek State Park
Dukes Creek Falls Recreation Area
Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area

Park Times and Information

Park Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address:
61 Tsalaki Trail
Helen, Georgia  30545
(706) 878-3087
       OR
Georgia State Parks and Historic Site
205 Butler Street, Suite 1352 East
Atlanta, Georgia   30334
(404) 656-2770      

Park Pass Information

A $2 daily or $25 annual parking fee is required.  The ParkPass is valid at all state parks visited that day, and Wednesdays are free days.   Annual ParkPasses are sold at park offices (senior discounts available) or by calling (404) 657-9851.

Some information has been provided by GA State Parks Dept.