About POPLAR SPRINGS
Overview Poplar Springs Recreation Area is a 24 acre site with moderate slopes with relatively dense stands of pines and mixed hardwoods. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities, but is primarily used for boat launching and is one of the more popular launch sites in this area of Hartwell Lake. Facilities include 1 volunteer host campsite, 20 picnic sites, 1 standard picnic shelter with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Recreation Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is available year-round for visitors' convenience. Facilities Facilities include 1 volunteer host campsite, 20 picnic sites, 1 standard picnic shelter with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Natural Features Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps. Nearby Attractions Nearby Tugaloo State Park offers swimming, boating and hiking, including the Crow Tree and Muscadine trails, which showcase beautiful blooms on oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry trees during the spring and summer months. Charges & Cancellations A $10 service fee will apply if you change or cancel a reservation more than 14 days in advance of arrival date. If you cancel a reservation within 14 days of your scheduled arrival date, you will forfeit the r
How to Get There
From GA 77/State Route 366, take the first right onto Knox Bridge Crossing Road/GA 59. After two miles make a slight right onto Powers Road. Turn right onto GA 398 North, follow for 3.5 miles, then follow the brown directional signs to the site. 2195 POPLAR SRPINGS RD Lavonia, GA 30643
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 POPLAR SPRINGS
Heading to POPLAR SPRINGS? 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 POPLAR SPRINGS?
No central reservation system listed for POPLAR SPRINGS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232678) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to POPLAR SPRINGS?
From GA 77/State Route 366, take the first right onto Knox Bridge Crossing Road/GA 59. After two miles make a slight right onto Powers Road. Turn right onto GA 398 North, follow for 3.5 miles, then follow the brown directional signs to the site. 2195 POPLAR SRPINGS RD Lavonia, GA 30643
How do I contact POPLAR SPRINGS?
You can reach the park at phone: 888-893-0678 HARTWELL PROJECT OFFICE.
References & Official Resources