GeorgiaA $4.67 million grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program helped Vogel State Park, Georgia’s second-oldest state park, celebrate the formal inauguration of its new 6,500-square-foot visitor center on August 7, 2025.
Honoring History and Enhancing Visitor Experience
The new facility, which is next to Lake Trahlyta, combines rustic design elements that were influenced by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which constructed the park during the Great Depression.
Inside, guests will discover:
-
An expanded
retail area
with souvenirs, books, clothing, hiking gear, and grab-and-go meals. -
Dedicated office space
for Park Rangers to assist guests. -
A
reservable multipurpose room
with a catering kitchen for birthdays, retreats, and community events.
DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon stated that the new visitor center would improve the experience for each visitor and set Vogel up for another century of memories, demonstrating the significance of Vogel’s legacy and our dedication to its preservation.
A Beloved Destination in the North Georgia Mountains
Vogel State Park has been a popular family vacation destination for many years, with over 350,000 visitors each year. The opening coincides with the fall season, which is frequently regarded as the park’s most picturesque time of year.
Vogel continues to be a cherished custom for generations of tourists, according to Angie Johnson, Director of the DNR Parks and Historic Sites Division, who commended the effort.
Previous Investments in Vogel s Growth
In recent years, the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program has also provided $2.2 million for Lake Trahlytain dredging and campground improvements. These enhancements have:
-
Addressed
erosion and sedimentation
issues. -
Enhanced
accessibility
for all visitors. -
Modernized the
camping experience
to attract new guests.
Vogel’s standing as one of Georgia’s best outdoor recreation locations is cemented by these continuous investments.
It is anticipated that the new visitor center will be the main hub for events, tourism, and outdoor education at Vogel, providing a setting where Georgia’s history and natural beauty coexist with contemporary comfort.
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