Farmers Lake
Swimming hole in Dalton, Georgia · Lake
Farmers Lake is a spring-fed lake swimming hole. It is near Dalton, Georgia. Fee notes: $5.00 per person. Best season: Visit between May and September for the best.
Typical season: Visit between May and September for the best
About Farmers Lake
Farmers Lake sits in Georgia. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities.
Fed by natural springs, the water stays refreshingly cool even during the height of a Southern summer, offering a welcome escape from the heat that settles over northwest Georgia from June through August. The lake sits in a managed recreational setting, meaning you'll find genuine amenities alongside genuine nature. A combination that makes it equally appealing to young families and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape softens into greens and golds depending on the season, and the shoreline provides a picturesque backdrop whether you're floating on your back gazing at the sky or simply sitting at the edge with your feet in the water. Lifeguards are on duty, making this a reassuring choice for families with younger swimmers who want a supervised environment without sacrificing the natural atmosphere. Autumn transforms the scene entirely.
Facilities and Activities Farmers Lake is designed for a full day out. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are scattered across the grounds, so you can fire up lunch between swims without hauling a cooler back to the parking lot. When you're ready for something more active, a volleyball court gives groups a place to compete, while a game room provides a shaded retreat for anyone who needs a break from the sun. A snack bar rounds out the on-site offerings, so you won't go hungry even if you arrive empty-handed. The entry fee is $5.00 per person. A modest investment for a day that covers this much ground.
Treat Farmers Lake as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Spring-fed lake
- Water body
- Farmers Lake
- Fee
- $5.00 per person
- Nearest town
- Dalton
- State
- Georgia
- Best season
- Visit between May and September for the best . Early mornings and late afternoons are a strong choice for photography and quiet relaxation. Autumn brings stunning foliage.
- Access difficulty
- Easy to access by car; no hiking required. The area is family-friendly with minimal physical exertion needed.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Amenities include picnic tables, charcoal grills, a volleyball court, a game room, and a snack bar. No camping is available on-site.
- Last verified
- July 11, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Visit between May and September for the best . Early mornings and late afternoons are a strong choice for photography and quiet relaxation. Autumn brings stunning foliage.
- Access Easy to access by car; no hiking required. The area is family-friendly with minimal physical exertion needed.
- Facilities Amenities include picnic tables, charcoal grills, a volleyball court, a game room, and a snack bar. No camping is available on-site.
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming
- Picnic tables and grills for outdoor meals
- On-site volleyball court for added fun
- Game room and snack bar for extra entertainment
- Picturesque surroundings with abundant wildlife
- Affordable entry fee at $5.00 per person
- Proximity to historic and cultural landmarks
- Combination of recreational and natural amenities
How to get there
Farmers Lake lies in Georgia near Dalton, Chattanooga(Tn), and Cohutta. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Farmers Lake lies in Cohutta, Georgia, and is accessible from several nearby towns, including Dalton, GA, and Chattanooga, TN. Follow the turn-by-turn directions below to reach the lake easily. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
-
From Dalton, GA
Begin by heading north on Route 71 (Cleveland Highway) for about 15 miles.
-
Turn west (left) onto Wolfe Road and continue toward Cohutta.
Once you reach Cohutta, turn north (right) onto Red Clay Road. Drive a short distance to 5510 Red Clay Road , where Farmers Lake lies. From Chattanooga, TN:
-
Take I-75 South toward Georgia.
-
Exit onto Route 71 (Cleveland Highway) heading south toward Cohutta.
Continue on Route 71 for about 20 miles.
-
Turn west (right) onto Wolfe Road and proceed into Cohutta.
In Cohutta, turn north (right) onto Red Clay Road.
-
Drive a short distance to 5510 Red Clay Road , where Farmers Lake lies. Helpful Information
-
Parking
There is parking available near the lake. Look for designated parking areas along Red Clay Road near the entrance to Farmers Lake. Landmarks: Wolfe Road is a key turn-off from Route 71, and Red Clay Road leads directly to the lake. Keep an eye out for road signs to ensure you stay on course.
-
Final Approach
Farmers Lake is easily visible from Red Clay Road. Follow any posted signs for access points or trails leading to the lake. Have a safe visit to Farmers Lake!
Plan your visit
Farmers Lake works well as a day trip from Dalton or Chattanooga(Tn). Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Nearby options include Blue Hole - Pigeon and Cave Spring. For the full list in Georgia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via Red Clay Road (5510 Red Clay Road, Cohutta, GA). A fee of $5.00 per person applies. Parking is available near the lake entrance. Check local postings for any seasonal hours or closures.
Top picks for this trip
Willit Rashguard Swim Shirt UPF 50+
The best all-around sun shirt for swimming holes — light enough to swim in, dry enough to hike out in.
Check price onOutward Hound Granby Splash Life Jacket
The best all-around dog swim float for natural water — as long as the hole is calm and you stay hands-on.
Check price onDisclosure: Gear links may earn a commission as an Amazon Associate — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
What to pack for Farmers Lake
Gear we compare side by side for lake swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
All gear categories →Disclosure: Gear links may earn a commission as an Amazon Associate — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Farmers Lake?
Yes. Farmers Lake near Dalton, Chattanooga(Tn), and Cohutta in GA is a spring-fed lake swimming spot on Farmers Lake. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Farmers Lake cost?
Plan for fees: $5.00 per person. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Farmers Lake?
Farmers Lake is in GA within day-trip range of Dalton, Chattanooga(Tn), and Cohutta. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The area is near the historic Red Clay State Historic Park, which played a role in Cherokee history and the Trail of Tears.
Conservation
Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles. The $5.00 fee helps maintain the site and supports environmental conservation.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.