Morgan Falls Overlook Park

Peaceful River Retreat

Located in Sandy Springs, Georgia, Morgan Falls Overlook Park covers 30 acres along the riverside. Opened in 2010, it holds the distinction of being the first park created after Sandy Springs became its own city - kind of like the municipality's firstborn child.

The park sits alongside Bull Sluice Lake, a serene reservoir formed by the Morgan Falls Dam on the Chattahoochee River. If you're looking to escape the concrete jungle for a few hours, this spot provides a nice break with its calming waters and lush surroundings.

Circular stone patio with fire pit and view of the lake beyond

Photo: TranceMist (CC BY 2.0)

Trails and Water Fun

A gentle 0.7-mile loop trail meanders through wooded areas, ideal for a casual stroll or a mindful nature walk. As you hike, you'll catch glimpses of the lake between the trees, with some sections offering a bit more challenge with steeper terrain and cool rock formations that look like they've been there since dinosaurs roamed Georgia.

For those interested in water activities, The park features a boat dock where you can launch your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Don't have a watercraft? No problem. During the warmer months (typically April through October), Murph's Surf Paddle Shack sets up shop with rentals for all your lake-exploring needs. The calm waters are particularly forgiving if you're a paddling newbie, but still enjoyable for those with more experience.

Family-Friendly Features

If you've got kids in tow, the large playground area is bound to be a hit. With its soft artificial turf surface (goodbye, skinned knees!), the playground includes wheelchair-accessible equipment making fun available to everyone. Children can spend hours on the slides, climbing structures, swings, and the spider web climbing apparatus that is a favorite among visitors of all ages.

Planning a family picnic? Several covered pavilions and tables provide perfect spots for outdoor meals. Two large charcoal grills are available if you're craving that barbecue flavor, and there's plenty of lawn space for impromptu games of frisbee or catch.

Peaceful trail winds along the lake's edge through tall trees

Photo: TranceMist (CC BY 2.0)

Spots to Unwind

One of the park's most charming features has to be the row of porch swings overlooking the water. These adult-sized swings offer a front-row seat to nature's show - great for reading a book, having a heartfelt conversation, or simply watching the light dance across the lake's surface.

When temperatures drop, the public fire pit and fireplace near the pavilion become cozy gathering spots. There's something deeply satisfying about warming your hands by a crackling fire while taking in the peaceful surroundings.

Stone chimney ruins stand near a picnic table overlooking the lake

Photo: TranceMist (CC BY 2.0)

A Touch of History

History buffs will appreciate the chimney of the Power Cabin standing near the fire pit. This silent stone witness is a reminder of early settlers who made their homes here when the Chattahoochee River marked the western frontier of a young United States. It's humbling to stand in a place with such historical significance while watching kayakers paddle by.

Good to Know

The park welcomes visitors daily from 8AM to 9PM with free parking (though spaces can fill up quickly on nice weekends, so consider arriving early). Despite being just a short drive from Atlanta, you'll feel miles away from urban life.

Clean restrooms are available throughout your visit, and four-legged friends are welcome as long as they're leashed. If you're into stargazing, keep an eye out for occasional astronomy events hosted by the Atlanta Astronomy Club - the park's relative distance from city lights makes it a decent spot for checking out the night sky.