Bobby Brown State Recreation Area

If you love the water, then you'll love Bobby Brown State Recreation Area. This 70,000 acre lake is the second largest manmade lake east of the Mississippi River. Named after Lt. Robert T. Brown who gave his life during World War II, the park is situated on the Clark Hills Reservoir. This manmade reservoir is filled by the waters of the Savannah and Broad Rivers.

The reservoir was created on what was once a thriving town in the 1790's named Petersburg. When water levels are low during drought conditions, the foundations of Petersburg poke their heads from their watery grave.

Bobby Brown State Recreation Area is all about the water. During the summer, the parks campground fills up quickly. No reservations can be made here, each site is on a first come, first serve basis. 61 sites are available with electricity and water. Hot showers and restrooms are located within the parks campground. The campground is open seasonally from March 15^th through September 15^th.

Like many Georgia state parks, Bobby Brown State Recreation Area is restrained due to budget cuts. No park ranger is available and the visitor's center is closed. Local deputies patrol the park around dusk. The boat ramp and campground are the only services that stay open. The boat ramp is open year round.

Fishing from the shores or by boat is great way to enjoy the park. Bream, catfish, bass and trout can all be found in the dark waters of the lake. Bring your poles, tackle, bait and ice-the nearest place to buy these items is a ten mile drive to the local store. A Georgia fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and up.

Water sports are the biggest draw for tourists who come to Bobby Brown State Recreation Area. Skiers are a common site in the summer and spring. Water toys of all sorts can be seen plying the waters of the reservoir as soon as it gets warm. Summer temperatures can easily reach 90 degrees or higher, so bring plenty of sunscreen and take a dip in the lake to cool off.

But you don't have to get your feet wet to enjoy all that Bobby Brown State Recreation Area has to offer its guests. Two miles of hiking trails allow visitor's to see the 665 acres of backwoods that surround the lake. A compass course teaches guests how to use a compass and map for orienteering through the forests.

For more information about directions to the park, hours of operations or fees, visit the official Georgia state park website here.