The Buford Dam is an earth-fill dam rising 193 feet above the Chattahoochee River streambed.
Water levels in the river below the dam can rise rapidly and without warning during hydroelectric generation events.
The location serves as a primary site for trout fishing due to the cold, oxygenated water released from the bottom of Lake Lanier.
The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and water supply for the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Lake Lanier covers approximately 38,000 acres at full pool elevation.
Lower Overlook is a designated recreational area situated directly below the Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River. It serves as a primary viewing point for observing water releases from Lake Sidney Lanier into the river basin. The site features a concrete-paved promenade that runs parallel to the river, offering proximity to the dam's outflow infrastructure. Visitors can access picnic facilities and designated fishing areas along the riverbank. The park provides views of the dam's massive spillway and earth-fill embankment. It is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Lake Lanier project. The area is prone to rapid water level changes due to downstream power generation and flood control operations.
The pedestrian promenade looking upstream toward the concrete base of the Buford Dam.
Check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website for water release schedules before heading to the riverbank.
Wear non-slip footwear, as the paved areas near the water can become slick after dam discharges.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better see fish and water movement below the dam surface.
Do not attempt to wade or swim in the river near the dam, as current speeds and depths change unpredictably.
Park access may be restricted during periods of high-security alerts or maintenance on the dam structure.
Obey all sirens and warning lights regarding water releases; do not enter restricted zones near the dam wall.
