Heads Creek Reservoir in Georgia

Trip Overview

Heads Creek Reservoir is a 300 acre lake west of Griffin, GA. Being the city's water reservoir no motor boats are allowed so it's perfect for a relaxing day of paddling around and especially good for beginners or to take kids out on. The lake has very few people on it most days.

There is a small road bridge (that you can paddle under) that divides the lake roughly 1/3 and 2/3. There are quite a few geese, ducks, herons, turtles, and fish and I have seen beavers on a couple of occasions. There is also a small island inhabited by a few geese. At the one end of the lake is a dam, so be mindful of getting too close to it.

Accommodations:

There are NO accommodations or facilities. The nearest store or bathroom that I have found is the gas station on GA-16 where you initially turned onto Vaughn Rd.

Fees:

No fees or permits required for paddling, regular state-issued fishing license is necessary if you want to fish.

Directions:

From Griffin go west on GA-16 to the community of Zetella. Turn right on Vaughn Rd and go 2.8 mi. At the small community of Rio turn right on West McIntosh Rd. From here you can go either:

1) 0.3 mi and turn left on New Salem Rd. As you cross over the old railroad crossing turn right onto the dirt road. There isn't a sign but you will come to the dam in about 500 ft. There is a concrete boat ramp located here.

Or, 2) After turning right onto West McIntosh Rd go 2.6 mi and turn left onto Cheatham Rd. Go 1.9 mi and as you come across the bridge the parking and launch area will be immediately on the right.

Resources:

Map (pdf file): www.griffinstorm.com/www/Links/Recreation/Information/Heads_Creek_Directions.pdf