Bob Stein Field - University of North Georgia
History
Located separate from North Georgia’s Dahlonega campus, Bob Stein Field is part of the larger Lynn Cottrell Park which also holds North Georgia’s softball field. Known as Georgia’s Military College, North Georgia was established in 2013 as North Georgia College & State and Gainesville State College merged. Competing in the Peach Belt Conference, they moved to NCAA D2 play in the 2005-2006 school year.
Atmosphere
All chairbacks and general admission, North Georgia’s fans stay deeply engaged throughout the entire game. The main warning here is that there’s no shade at all over the stands, which can be absolutely brutal in the North Georgia sun. Thankfully because it’s in the mountains there’s some breeze, but make sure to bring your sun protection. Softball is right next door, so definitely the opportunity to catch two in one day if the timing works out.
Concessions
There is one main concession stand at North Georgia which serves hotdogs, candy, chips, and sodas. There is a separate stand for alcohol sales, and in additional to the beer and seltzer you’d expect, there’s also wine available which I haven’t seen at a D2 park before North Georgia. Outside the stadium, there are lots of wine bars and cellars; Dahlonega is considered the heart of Georgia wine country.
Access
Parking is free at Bob Stein, though the main lot is a bit of a walk, as you have to walk past the softball field first. There is a small lot closer, but I would consider it in ‘park at your own risk’ territory, which isn’t something I like to be close to. There are hotels in Dahlonega, though most of them are boutique style for folks visiting for its wine. About an hour and 15 minutes north of Atlanta, there are hotels as you head south and the drive into the mountains is absolutely beautiful.
Final Thoughts
My one true complaint about Bob Stein Field is the lack of shade; in North Georgia, or any school in the Deep South, I find it arguably unforgivable. Outside of that, though, a trip to the mountains of North Georgia will always end up with a gorgeous view, and the fact that they lean into being at the heart of Georgia wine country is absolutely a highlight.
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