4 minute read
Community Spotlight: Rabun County
Lakes, Peaks, & Good TimesYour escape awaits in Rabun County
Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia, Rabun County is a true gem, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and the warm hospitality of its residents. From the majestic peaks that touch the sky to the pristine lakes and cascading waterfalls, the landscape here is a vibrant tapestry of outdoor wonders. Beyond the picturesque scenery, it’s the genuine kindness and welcoming spirit of the people that truly make Rabun County feel like home.
Nature has an unparalleled ability to instill a sense of calm and perspective and Rabun County has approx. 150,000 acres of National Forest land and 20% is owned by Georgia Power for Lake Burton, Rabun, Seed, and Tallulah.
If boating, water-sports, swimming or fishing help you cool off on a hot summer day then Rabun County has several lakes with the largest being Lake Burton. Offering three activity areas of Jones Bridge Park, Timpson Cove Beach, or Murray Cove all offer shoreline and picnic areas. Lake Rabun is the second largest with Nacoochee Park and Rabun Beach. Fees are usually required for fishing and catches include bass, bream, perch, trout and catfish.
If your looking for cool waters to beat the heat, the Chattooga River borders Georgia and South Carolina and is recognized as one of the Southeast’s premier whitewater area. Over 50 miles of river flows from the Appalachian Mountains to Lake Tugaloo offering class II – V rapids.
Rabun County boasts on having “three Georgia State Parks” with Moccasin Creek State Park on Lake Burton and off the Scenic Hwy. 197. Black Rock Mountain State Park to the North and takes it’s name from the shear dark granite wall that is visible from long distances. Within the State Park there are four scenic overlooks. Visitors enjoying backpacking for day trips, hiking on the trails and fishing on the 17 acre lake.
Near Black Rock Mtn. is home to the famed “Foxfire” Museum & Heritage Center. The project of Foxfire magazine was based on interviewing local people and publishing their stories, which inspired numerous schools across the country to develop similar programs. The museum offers a self-guided tour through the authentic village showing the trades of early settlers.
Traveling north a beautiful valley surrounded by farmland and mountains leads to the community of Dillard that dates back to the earliest documented white settlers in 1794. Visitors have been welcomed to farm fresh family-style meals at the Dillard House Restaurant since 1917 which is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The town has an old time feel with antique shops, markets, welcoming accommodations, plus arts & crafts to help you savor the simple life.
To view high atop the Mountains take a beautiful scenic drive on Highway 246 toward Sky Valley, Ga. to see an aerial perspective from lookouts. The area offers abundant hiking, waterfalls and scenic flora. Georgia’s highest city, with an elevation of 3,500 ft. is home to Sky Valley Golf and Country Club, which features an 18 hole championship public golf course, luxury accommodations, swimming and tennis courts.
Located south of Rabun County is Tallulah Falls State Park which is often referred to as the Niagara Falls of the Southeast. This Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep and drops the Tallulah River over six waterfalls in one mile. Mountain biking and hiking are popular here, as well as some serious multi pitch rock climbing. Fun activities also include boating, rafting & kayaking the Tallulah when the upstream Georgia Power Company opens it’s dam, a few times a year.
Visitors always enjoy the town of Clayton for a Relaxed atmosphere of shopping in specialty stores that range from gifts, home décor, art, to outfitters & apparel. Experience a variety of Dining from country cooking, or family favorites to fine dining, breweries, wine tastings, and sweet treats. Enjoy one of the many Festivals & Block Parties that are held in downtown Clayton periodically through the year. Stay in a relaxing B&B, cottage, rental, camping or RV accommodations to make Clayton & Rabun County your perfect getaway to rest, relax and renew!
Your open invitation is waiting to visit Rabun County for the best vacation in the North Georgia area!
For more information visit ExploreRabun.com or visit the new welcome center on Hwy 441 - 706-782-4812
