Sams Lake Bird Sanctuary

Explore nature at Sams Lake Bird Sanctuary.

260 Old Senoia Road

Fayetteville, GA 30215


Hours: Dawn to Dusk Daily


The gate closes promptly at 9:30 PM. Please ensure you exit by dusk to avoid being locked in.


The 56-acre site was donated to SCT by the Sams family in 1997. The natural oasis is home to deer, beavers, turtles, and over 142 documented species of birds — the third-highest bird population on record in Fayette County.


Trails along the wetland areas include two observation platforms overlooking open water and wetland habitat, a small boardwalk, a wildlife observation blind overlooking the northernmost wetland, and a picnic area on the southern lake.

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History


The land was donated to the Trust by the Ferrol and Helen Sams family of Fayetteville. In 2001, the City of Atlanta agreed to restore a wetland habitat at the site as required mitigation for the wetlands disturbed by the construction of the fifth runway at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Along with the initial water control structures, a large portion of the property was dammed by beavers. This beaver dam created a large lake and wetland that provides ample habitat for numerous wildlife species.

Discover the wonders of nature at Sams Lake Bird Sanctuary.

While enjoying your walk at Sams it is likely you will see numerous songbird species, great blue herons, great egrets, wood ducks, mallard ducks, turtles, Canada geese, belted kingfishers, as well as the occasional muskrat or beaver!


Remember, Sams Lake is a Georgia Audubon Certified Bird Sanctuary so pets are not allowed. Please enjoy one of our other nature areas for the perfect location to walk your pets.

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Park Rules & Map

  • The park is open from dawn to dusk.
  • Please stay on the designated trail to minimize disturbance of wetlands, wildlife, and native plants.
  • Only catch-and-release fishing is allowed.
  • Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the lake or trails.
  • Horses and other pets are not permitted on the trails.
  • Please dispose of all trash in appropriate receptacles.
  • Drugs, alcohol, fireworks, and the use of firearms are prohibited.


Download Map

Sams Lake Bird Sanctuary is a certified Birds Georgia Wildlife Sanctuary, so it is the perfect spot for birders to enjoy.

We are a proud Leave No Trace partner.

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. Although Leave No Trace has its roots in backcountry settings, the Principles have been adapted so that they can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas, to local parks and even in your own backyard. They also apply to almost every recreational activity. Each Principle covers a specific topic and provides detailed information for minimizing impacts.

Learn More

Wild Animal Rescue Help

The Southern Conservation Trust and the Fayette Environmental Education Center do not accept wildlife for rehabilitation. If you have injured or orphaned wildlife, please use Animal Help Now to find a Wildlife Rehabilitator in your area. 

Visit Animal Help Now
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