Last week when Richard was visiting, we decided to look up points of interest in our Garmin GPS and go take a look at something new. We are so glad we did, because we would have never discovered this beautiful place in the world on our own! Coosa River Nature Center Lock and Dam Park in Rome, Georgia is about 35 or so miles from our house, but well worth the drive up there.
Brown’s Guide to Georgia has this to say about Lock and Dam Park:
…the Lock and Dam Park illustrates the region’s (and all of Georgia’s) early river history. During the mid-1800s, before the lock and dam were built, the Coosa was busy with steamboats and barges carrying freight, passengers and mail between Rome and Greenport, Alabama. The boats had difficulty navigating some parts of the river, one of the worst points being Horseleg Shoals. Occasionally, temporary “dams” were devised by local citizens along the sides of the Coosa to create deeper water for navigation. Because of such problems, it was decided to make the Coosa River completely navigable. Six locks and dams were completed, the first in 1880. Construction of the lock and dam at what was known as Mayo’s Bar began in 1910 and opened for navigation in 1913. The lock was officially closed in 1941. Today a 730-acre regional park serves as a popular campground and fishing area while remaining one of Floyd County’s early historical landmarks…
Lock and Dam Park is on the Coosa River south of Rome, Georgia. We were amazed at how beautiful this place is. Lots of spring flowers blooming the day we were there. There were also plenty of trees for shade during the summer. The whole place was inviting and pleasant and neatly manicured.
A real river boat that was used on the Coosa River is on display here. It is interesting to see the boat and read about its history. It was powered by a Buick engine!
There is a campground with 31 RV sites. 50 amp electric service, septic service and a dump station are also available. Some of the campsites are right on the river bank. There is a primitive camping area and bathhouses, and many nature trails in the park.
Oh, and don’t forget your fishing gear! There is plenty of room on the dock and along the riverbank to cast your line and fish for crappie, stripers, and catfish.
Other amenities:
- Pavilion for up to 250 people for picnics, family reunions and special groups
- Walking trails and Observation Tower with a view of the Coosa River and mountains
- Fernbank Science Center display with tours for special groups available
- Meeting room
- Trading post and bait shop that sells tackle, bait, camping and picnic supplies.
- Canoe Rentals
- Fishing Pier
- Boat Ramp and Boat Docks
To get there, take US Hwy 27 South to Walker Mountain Road, or US Hwy 20 West to Georgia Hwy 100 to Blacks Bluff Road. The park hours are from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Security closes the gate at 11:00 p.m. There is a $2.00 per vehicle parking fee. For more information or to make reservations call 706-234-5001 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Gaelyn says
Seems we often wait for visitors to explore our neighborhood. Interesting place.
Beth Larrabee says
Looks interesting!
Lindsay says
Don’t you love when you find something cool right in your back yard? Georgia has so many little hidden treasures!
Fab Grandma says
Yes, I do, Lindsay. We always seem to look for places we haven’t been when we have company.
Nicole @ Some Call It Natural says
I’ve totally been there… used to live near there. Thanks for the trip down memory lane. 🙂
Henrietta says
This looks like such a fun place to visit! I love being able to see nature on vacations!
Fab Grandma says
I do too, Henrietta. I love that GPS, too because it finds places for us that are nearby, where ever we may be.
Whitney at It's Gravy, Baby! says
That is beautiful! We went on a boat trip in 2010 and had to go through a dam- it was such a neat experience. I’m ready to go fishing this year!
Jennifer Salmon says
My farm borders the Lock, and I grew up there. It’s so wonderful to read that people love coming to our little park and appreciate all it has to offer. Thank you for your kind words about our little piece of Heaven on earth.