Ridgeway

Ridgeway Recreation Area at Carters Lake features a boat launch area that's particularly popular with paddlers. The area has parking available for a $5 fee. It's designed primarily as a day-use recreation area rather than an overnight camping facility. Visitors should be aware that the area can become busy with jet skiers, especially during peak times. For the most current information about facilities and seasonal amenities, contacting the Carters Lake visitor center is recommended.

No, RV camping is not permitted at Ridgeway Recreation Area. This area of Carters Lake is primarily set up for day use activities like paddling and water recreation rather than overnight camping. The campground road access is currently closed. For RV camping options, visitors should check other designated campgrounds around Carters Lake that specifically accommodate overnight stays and RV hookups.

Visitors highlight Ridgeway Park as an excellent paddling destination with unique water features to explore. Paddlers particularly enjoy the short trip to a waterfall by going right from the put-in point, while the left direction offers more adventurous exploration. The terrain around the recreation area features significant elevation changes, with everything at approximately a 65% slant. Visitors appreciate the relative seclusion from highways but note that motorized watercraft like jet skis can disrupt the tranquility, especially later in the day.

Carters Lake and its Ridgeway Recreation Area are located in North Georgia, situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The recreation area is positioned away from main highways, offering a more secluded natural setting. Visitors should note that reaching Ridgeway requires navigating roads that lead away from primary routes. The lake itself is one of Georgia's larger reservoir lakes, created by Carters Dam on the Coosawattee River.