Chattahoochee River NRA increases access to park

By INtown Staff

Following federal, state, and local guidance, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (NRA) has eased COVID-19 restrictions and increased recreational access.

The National Park Service (NPS) has allowed all commercial services on the river to resume, including Nantahala Outdoor Center, Deep South Fly Anglers, Shoot the Hooch, River Through Atlanta, Kayak Classes of Georgia, Tie One On, $10 Tubing, and High Country Outfitters.

The park, located near Sandy Springs, is once again charging a $5 entrance fee, so look for signage at each parking area on how to electronically pay the fee.

However, comfort stations and the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center were still closed at press time.

“We welcome visitors back to the park for increased recreation opportunities in Chattahoochee River NRA,” said Acting Superintendent Ann Honious. “We ask visitors to remember to recreate responsibly, by recreating with the people in your household. Give others plenty of room whether you are on a trail, at a boat launch, or in a parking lot. Follow the CDC social distancing guidelines for staying six feet away from others. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth if you’re near others.”

Honiuous said that the NRA is working closely with the NPS Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public and workspaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers.

When recreating, the public should follow local area health orders, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding and avoid high-risk outdoor activities.

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on our website nps. gov/chat and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www. nps.gov/coronavirus.

A new NPS report shows that 3.4 million visitors to Chattahoochee River NRA in 2019 spent $152 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 2,160 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $213 million.