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Vogel State Park, Georgia’s second-oldest state park, recently celebrated the grand opening of its new visitor center, made possible in part by a $4.67 million grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together state and local leaders, officials from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), members of the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund Board of Trustees, and community members to commemorate the occasion.
The new 6,500-square-foot facility sits beside Lake Trahlyta and serves as a central hub for park visitors. Honoring Vogel’s rich history, the building incorporates rustic design elements inspired by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which constructed the park during the Great Depression.
Inside, the visitor center features an expanded retail area offering souvenirs, books, clothing, hiking and camping gear, and grab-and-go meals. Park Rangers now have dedicated office space and ample room to assist overnight guests with camping and cottage check-ins. A reservable multipurpose room with a catering kitchen is also available for events such as birthday parties, anniversaries, retreats, and other gatherings.
“Vogel State Park welcomes more than 350,000 visitors each year and remains one of Georgia’s most beloved destinations,” said DNR Parks and Historic Sites Division Director Angie Johnson. “For generations, families have returned year after year, making Vogel a treasured tradition. We’re proud to open these doors just in time for fall—one of the most magical seasons in the North Georgia mountains.”
“This new visitor center reflects the importance of Vogel’s legacy and our commitment to preserving it,” said DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon, who also chairs the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund Board of Trustees. “The updated facilities will enhance the experience for every visitor, support our staff in delivering the highest level of service, and prepare Vogel for another century of unforgettable memories.”
The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program has also previously invested $2.2 million in campground renovations at Vogel State Park and the dredging of Lake Trahlyta, including efforts to address erosion and sedimentation issues. These upgrades enhanced accessibility, modernized the camping experience, and attracted new visitors, further strengthening Vogel’s role as a premier destination for outdoor recreation in Georgia.
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ABOUT THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
The mission of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is to sustain, enhance, protect, and conserve Georgia's natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices. This work is conducted by DNR’s five operating divisions which include: Coastal Resources Division; Environmental Protection Division; Law Enforcement Division; State Parks & Historic Sites Division; and Wildlife Resources Division.
ABOUT THE GEORGIA OUTDOOR STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM
The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Act (GOSA) was approved by the Georgia General Assembly in 2018 and later overwhelming approved by Georgia voters with 83% support. This is the state’s first dedicated funding mechanism to support parks and trails as well as protect and acquire lands critical to wildlife, clean water, and outdoor recreation across the state of Georgia. Since the program’s establishment in 2019, GOSA has allocated over Since the program’s establishment in 2019, GOSA has allocated over $142 million of funding to 74 conservation and outdoor recreation projects across Georgia. Grantees have committed more than $237 million to match these grant funds, for a total investment of $379 million.
For more information, contact
Haley Chafin, Manager of External Affairs – 470-303-0719, Haley.Chafin@dnr.ga.gov
