Unicoi State Park Tours

Unicoi State Park showing a bay or harbor
Unicoi State Park showing a river or creek
Unicoi State Park showing a bridge and a river or creek
Unicoi State Park showing a bay or harbor
Unicoi State Park which includes a bay or harbor


A large lake amid tree-covered mountains attracts those who want to relax. Participate in many activities to create a vacation in these lovely natural surroundings.

Unicoi State Park is tucked into the North Georgia Mountains near the town of Helen. Hike the trails to view the diverse vegetation and keep your camera ready for any wildlife you may happen to see. The central attraction is the large lake that occupies 53 acres (21 hectares) of the park. Known by both names of Smith Lake and Unicoi Lake, the area is a magnet for those who want time in or near the water or on the beach.

Swimming and non-motorized boating are popular. Try other activities that are available for added cost. Classes for paddleboarding and fly-fishing are offered through the Adventure Lodges of Georgia. Visit an accessible archery and air gun range or zip line through the park and over the lake. Many more possibilities are available to entertain the whole family. Stay at the lodge to be close to all the fun or choose one of the park’s campgrounds.

Fish for trout and bream in Smith Creek, which runs into and from the lake. Purchase a fishing license from a state office to catch catfish, bluegill and bass from fishing docks located around the lake.

Travel to the bordering Chattahoochee National Forest, which charges its own admission fee, and hike to the Anna Ruby Falls. The natural feature consists of two falls, with the principal one dropping 153 feet (47 meters). An accessible trail equipped with handrails and braille signs provides learning resources about the local environment.

Golf at the nearby Innsbruck Resort and Golf Club and walk through the charming town of Helen with its picturesque German-style buildings. The downtown area has an assortment of interesting and unique stores. Ride the alpine coaster as you speed through the woods and enjoy this part of the state and its many natural attractions.

Find Unicoi State Park about 90 miles (145 kilometers) northeast of Atlanta. The park is open year round.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Unicoi State Park

Unicoi State Park & Lodge

Unicoi State Park & Lodge

3 out of 5
1788 Highway 356, Helen, GA
Unicoi State Park & Lodge
Days Inn by Wyndham Helen

Days Inn by Wyndham Helen

2 out of 5
101 Edelweiss Strausse, Helen, GA
Days Inn by Wyndham Helen
Super 8 by Wyndham Helen

Super 8 by Wyndham Helen

2 out of 5
8171 South Main Street, Helen, GA
Super 8 by Wyndham Helen
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA

2.5 out of 5
877 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA
Baymont by Wyndham Helen

Baymont by Wyndham Helen

2.5 out of 5
8220 South Main Street, Helen, GA
Baymont by Wyndham Helen
River’s Edge  – Cozy Riverside Cabin Near Downtown Helen, GA

River’s Edge – Cozy Riverside Cabin Near Downtown Helen, GA

Helen
River’s Edge – Cozy Riverside Cabin Near Downtown Helen, GA
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Helen Downtown

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Helen Downtown

2.5 out of 5
8396 S Main St, Helen, GA
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Helen Downtown
Helendorf River Inn, Suites & Conference Center

Helendorf River Inn, Suites & Conference Center

2.5 out of 5
33 Munich Strasse, Helen, GA
Helendorf River Inn, Suites & Conference Center
Alpine Crest Resort

Alpine Crest Resort

3.5 out of 5
273 Carrie Cox Dr, Helen, GA
Alpine Crest Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find the best attractions near Unicoi State Park

Unicoi State Park in Helen, Georgia, offers a blend of adventure and culture with attractions like breathtaking waterfalls and local art centers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, including picnics at the park’s pavilions, and explore nearby historic sites. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the park is also close to Unicoi Hill Park and Hunting Island State Park, providing a perfect escape for any traveler seeking a memorable experience.

  • Charlemagne's Kingdom: Experience the charm of this enchanting miniature display, located 1 mile from Unicoi State Park. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for visitors of all ages to marvel at intricately crafted scenes and models.
  • Anna Ruby Falls: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Anna Ruby Falls, a stunning waterfall situated 3 miles away. With its romantic and adventurous vibes, it's an ideal location for couples and outdoor lovers seeking a scenic hike and breathtaking views.
  • Alpine Helen/White County Convention and Visitors Bureau: Just 1 mile from Unicoi State Park, this visitor center combines outdoor adventure and family fun. Stop by for helpful local information and explore the unique Bavarian-style village of Helen.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Unicoi State Park

To save money on your visit to Unicoi State Park, plan your trip between January and March when accommodation prices are lower, avoiding the peak months of July and October. Opt for Tuesday stays, the cheapest day, while considering Expedia for hotel bookings and travel packages. Take advantage of the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Additionally, look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. Explore free activities in the park, such as hiking and picnicking, to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Unicoi State Park are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Unicoi State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Unicoi State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Unicoi State Park with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.