About Rays Lake Park
Overview Rays Lake Park is located on Lake Seminole in Southwest Georgia. The lake and surrounding area provide a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for fishing, camping, boating, picnicking, hiking, biking and birding. Recreation Lake Seminole is known as one of the best sites for sports fishing in America. Extensive stump and grass beds provide abundant cover where anglers fish for largemouth, hybrid, striped and white bass. Sizable populations of catfish, crappie and bream are also present. Over 79 species of fish have been identified in the lake. Facilities Rays Lake Park has restroom facilities within walking distance to the shelter. A boat ramp provides access to the lake. The park has a fishing pier with stair and ramp access. There are 5 picnic tables and a grill located at the shelter. Electricity hook ups are available. There is no potable water. Natural Features Lake Seminole has a surface area of 37,500 acres with 376 miles of shoreline. A pine and hardwood forest covers the rolling hills around the lake. A variety of wildlife makes its home around Seminole Lake, including raccoons, alligators, ring-necked ducks, canvasbacks, scaup, hawks, bald eagles, black vultures, tortoises and snakes. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (229) 662-2001.
How to Get There
From Donalsonville: Take Hwy 39 South approximately 7 miles. Veer left onto Hwy 374 and continue approximately 7 miles. The park is on the left, just after you cross the bridge. From Bainbridge: Take Spring Creek Hwy (Hwy 253) west for approximately 18 miles. Turn right at the stop sign at Hwy 374 (Dollar General will be on your left). Continue less than a mile. Park will be on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Rays Lake Park
Heading to Rays Lake Park? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Rays Lake Park?
No central reservation system listed for Rays Lake Park. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10150485) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Rays Lake Park?
From Donalsonville: Take Hwy 39 South approximately 7 miles. Veer left onto Hwy 374 and continue approximately 7 miles. The park is on the left, just after you cross the bridge. From Bainbridge: Take Spring Creek Hwy (Hwy 253) west for approximately 18 miles. Turn right at the stop sign at Hwy 374 (Dollar General will be on your left). Continue less than a mile. Park will be on the right.
How do I contact Rays Lake Park?
You can reach the park at phone: 229-662-2001.
References & Official Resources
