As the aroma of roasted turkey fills the air and families gather around the table, we’re reminded that Thanksgiving is about more than great food. It’s about gratitude, connection, and time spent with those who matter most.
Here at Etowah Valley Sporting Clays in Dawsonville, Georgia, we’re especially thankful for the guests who’ve made our North Georgia range such a special place to gather, learn, and enjoy the outdoors together.
While our team is taking Thanksgiving Day off to celebrate with family, we look forward to welcoming you back all season long for fresh air, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories.
If you’ve ever wanted to try sporting clays but weren’t sure where to start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your first visit, from what to bring to how to prepare for your day at North Georgia’s premier clay sports destination.
🍂 What Is Sporting Clays?
Often described as “golf with a shotgun,” sporting clays is a unique outdoor activity that combines skill, focus, and fun. Instead of aiming at fixed targets, participants move from station to station across scenic courses, where clay targets are launched into the air to mimic the flight of game birds or rabbits.
Each station offers a new challenge, and a new view of the North Georgia foothills. It’s a sport that’s easy to learn, exciting to master, and perfect for individuals, families, and teams looking to do something a little different this holiday season.
At Etowah Valley Sporting Clays, the emphasis isn’t just on accuracy. It’s on enjoying the experience, connecting with others, and taking in the beauty of the outdoors.
🏞 Why Visit Etowah Valley Sporting Clays?
Located in the heart of Dawsonville, GA, just north of Atlanta, Etowah Valley is more than a sporting clays range. It’s a place where community and recreation meet. Visitors come for the challenge, but they stay for the camaraderie, hospitality, and peaceful North Georgia setting.
Here’s why Etowah Valley is the perfect place to start your sporting clays journey:
- 🍁 Four courses, including our Green Course, designed for beginners.
- 🎯 Professional instructors for all experience levels.
- 🧢 On-site rentals (firearms, ammo, carts, and safety gear) no need to bring your own.
- ☕ A cozy lodge and friendly staff who make every visit memorable.
- 🌄 Scenic mountain views and crisp seasonal air that make fall and winter the ideal time to visit.
If you’re planning a post-Thanksgiving family outing or a fun team event before the new year, Etowah Valley offers a welcoming experience for everyone.
🟢 Where Beginners Should Start
If you’re new to the sport, we recommend beginning on our Green Course. It’s thoughtfully designed for newcomers, offering moderate target speeds and approachable angles that help you find your rhythm and build confidence.
Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can level up to one of our other exciting courses:
- Blue Course – Ideal for recreational visitors looking for a step up.
- Red Course – For intermediate to advanced guests seeking variety and challenge.
- White Course – Our longest and most technical course for competitive enthusiasts.
No matter which you choose, every course at Etowah Valley Sporting Clays is surrounded by stunning scenery and carefully maintained for safety and enjoyment.
👕 What to Wear
Fall and early winter in North Georgia bring cool mornings and comfortable afternoons, perfect for layers.
Here’s a simple checklist for your first visit:
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes (you’ll walk on gravel and grass).
- A hat or baseball cap to block the sun.
- Layered clothing for changing temperatures.
- Optional: A padded vest or shell pouch for carrying ammo.
Most of all, dress for movement and comfort, you’ll be outdoors and on your feet, taking in some of the best views in Dawsonville.
🦺 Safety Comes First
At Etowah Valley, safety is at the heart of everything we do.
We require eye and ear protection at all times and provide both with rentals if you don’t have your own.
- 👓 Eye Protection: Clear or tinted lenses shield against flying debris.
- 🎧 Ear Protection: Foam plugs or over-the-ear muffs help prevent hearing damage (sounds can reach up to 140 decibels).
Our staff is trained to make sure you’re confident before starting, whether you’re visiting for a solo round, a lesson, or a corporate event.
🔸 Understanding Ammo
For everyone’s safety, only target loads are permitted on our property.
Use shot sizes 7.5, 8, or 9, which are designed specifically for clay targets.
⚠️ Please note: Game loads (sizes 6, 5, 4, 3, 2) and all rifles or handguns are not allowed.
If you’re unsure what to use, our staff is happy to help you select the right ammunition before you head to your first station.
🎯 Rentals Available On-Site
No need to bring your own gear! We offer full equipment rentals to make your first experience easy and stress-free.
Our rentals include:
- Sporting shotguns for all skill levels
- Target load ammo
- Shell pouches and safety gear
- Carts for navigating the course
Everything is designed to make your visit convenient, just bring yourself (and a friend or two).
🧑🏫 Learn from the Best
If you’re new to the sport or just looking to improve, we highly recommend scheduling a lesson with one of our certified instructors.
Our talented coaching team: Tim, Mike, Ron, and George, has years of experience and a reputation for being friendly, patient, and professional.
During your session, you’ll learn:
- The proper stance and hold
- How to track targets effectively
- How to maintain course etiquette and safety
Even a single lesson can make your day more enjoyable and boost your confidence before heading out on your own.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for Families, Friends, and Teams
Looking for a new tradition this holiday season? Sporting clays is the perfect outdoor activity for families and groups, and a great way to reconnect after busy months of work and school.
Many guests visit us during the holiday season for:
- Family outings after Thanksgiving
- Corporate end-of-year gatherings
- Bachelor or bachelorette parties
- Holiday team-building events
We also offer custom packages that can include:
- Pavilion rentals
- Food and beverage options
- Raffles and contests
If you’re celebrating the season or simply looking to enjoy time outside, Etowah Valley Sporting Clays provides the perfect setting to make memories that last.
❓ Common Questions for First-Time Visitors
Q: Do I need a license?
A: No license is required to enjoy our courses.
Q: How long does it take to play a round?
A: On average, 1 to 1.5 hours depending on group size.
Q: Can I bring my own firearm?
A: Yes, as long as it follows our safety rules.
Q: Are kids welcome?
A: Absolutely! With adult supervision and instruction, kids can safely enjoy the sport. We also offer youth programs for those who want to learn more.
🍁 Holiday Hours & Thanksgiving Gratitude
This Thanksgiving, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every visitor, member, and supporter who has made Etowah Valley Sporting Clays part of their story.
Our holiday hours are:
- Thanksgiving Eve: Open until 12 p.m.
- Thanksgiving Day: Closed
- Christmas Eve: Open until 12 p.m.
- Christmas Day: Closed
- New Year’s Eve: Open until 12 p.m.
- New Year’s Day: Closed
We look forward to welcoming you throughout the holiday season for your next family outing, friendly competition, or team event.
From our Etowah Valley family to yours – we hope you have a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂
📍 Plan Your Visit
Etowah Valley Sporting Clays
619 Sporting Hill Dr., Dawsonville, GA 30534
📞 (706) 265-1611
🌐 etowahvalleysportingclays.com
