Resting proudly along the Eastern Continental Divide is Black Rock Mountain State Park. This park is located three miles from Clayton, just off U.S. Highway 441 in northeast Georgia. At an elevation of nearly 3,700 feet, Black Rock Mountain State Park has the distinction of being the highest state park in Georgia. The two-mile drive to the summit provides visitors with several opportunities to stop at one of the many scenic overlooks and take in the spectacular panorama of the Southern Appalachians.
For nature lovers and outdoorsmen, Black Rock Mountain State Park has much to offer. Eleven miles of trails lead hikers past a vivid array of seasonal wildflowers. Walking alongside gentle streams, visitors should stop often and listen for the music of nearby cascading waterfalls. It is easy to experience a deeply peaceful feeling while strolling through the lush forests of Black Rock Mountain State Park.
The steep paved road through the park makes this area very attractive to bicyclists. Since bicycles share the road with motorized vehicles, riders need to exercise care.
As in all of the mountainous areas of Georgia, wildlife can be found in abundance in the park. In addition to the regular assortment of squirrels, chipmunks, and other small woodland creatures, the occasional brown bear can be seen during certain times of the year. Black Rock Mountain State Park is ideal for bird watching. Be sure to bring along your binoculars.
A seventeen-acre lake encircled by a gentle trail lies inside the park. Since the lake is ideal for a lazy afternoon of fishing, you will need your Georgia fishing license. Although gas motors are not allowed on boats, small electric trolling motors are permissible. Those lucky enough to land one of the lake’s nice sized trout, perch, catfish, bream, or bass can head on over to one of the picnic areas and cook it up on the spot! Feel free to bring your own canoe or kayak. It seems as if this peaceful lake was made for these activities.
Black Rock Mountain State Park has become a haven for those interested in geocaching activities. Over 40 state parks, including Black Rock Mountain State Park, have hidden “caches” which can be found by using a GPS unit. Come join in one of state’s biggest treasure hunts. Geocaching is the perfect outdoor game for families. It is a wonderful way to involve technology while exploring the scenic trails of the park. Much more information about geocaching in Georgia’s state parks can be found by visiting the website: http://gastateparks.org/GeoCacheParks.
For a lovely day in some of the most beautiful country in Georgia, Black Rock Mountain State Park seems almost made to order. Most guests, however, enjoy Black Rock Mountain State Park so much that they are not content with such a brief visit. To remedy this, camping facilities are available for recreational vehicles, tents, and trailers. These camp sites have cable hook ups. Walk-in campsites are also available. Inside the park there is also a large pioneer group campground. For those who prefer the comfort and convenience of a cottage, ten rental cottages are available at Black Rock Mountain State Park. Man’s best friend is welcome at the park where two of the cottages are pet-friendly.
If you find the need to venture off the mountain, you can spend a few hours exploring any of several quaint towns located nearby. Shopping, art, and antiquing are available within easy driving distance of the park. Some of the most delicious food you have ever tasted can be found at a number of nearby restaurants.
Additional information about Black Rock Mountain State Park and the surrounding area can be found at http://gastateparks.org. Camping reservations can be made online by using the website previously listed or by calling 1-800-864-7275 (Monday-Friday, 8AM-8PM; Saturday-Sunday, 9AM-5PM EST). To reach the park directly, call 1-706-746-2141.
Spend a few hours or several days at Black Rock Mountain State Park. Be sure to bring your camera. You will want to capture the beauty and wonder of this magnificent park. It is a quiet, beautiful place you will never forget, and it is a place you will want to return to over and over again.