R SHAEFER HEARD

Surrounded by rolling fields and deep forests that display outstanding fall foliage, West Point Lake extends 35 miles along the Chattahoochee River on the Alabama-Georgia state line. The campground is forested and overlooks the 25,900-acre lake.

Recreation: Whether sailing or power boating, West Point Lake is a boater's paradise. There are boat ramps in 34 public recreation areas around the lake, including R. Shaefer Heard, as well as two privately owned full-service marinas. Fishing is one of the most popular activities on the lake. A dozen creeks and more than 40 square miles of lake provide plenty of good fishing spots for the thousands of anglers who fish here regularly. The lake abounds with bass, catfish, crappie and bream. Bank fishing is excellent at many locations, including public fishing piers at Hardley Creek, Rocky Point and McGee Bridge parks. Several trails wind along the lake and through the landscape, including the Lakeside Trail, which is perfect for mountain biking. A wildlife management area of nearly 10,000 acres, located at the upper end of the lake, provides habitat for many types of wildlife. This area offers excellent hunting opportunities.

Nearby: The lake offers 25 day-use parks. While many people visit the lake to boat and camp, the parks offer a variety of other recreation facilities including tennis courts, ball fields, basketball courts, fishing piers with fish attractors, hiking trails and picnic shelters for individuals or large groups.