If you are looking for a place close to home and yet far enough away for your cares to be left behind, look no farther than River Falls at the Gorge. Perfect for any event, from camping to family reunions to simply relaxing and fishing, this new development has it all.
Just after you cross the Tallulah Falls bridge, across from the turn to head to Louie’s on the Lake or Rabun Beach, there has long been a big building with a sign “Savelli’s” and an a gated entrance. We always wondered about the place and what it might be, there never seemed to be any activity.
Well, wonder no more. After an extensive redevelopment, the property is now open to the public. A new water feature at the entrance highlights the new name, River Falls at the Gorge. The property, which features acres and acres of forested land nestled among a beautiful curve of the Tallulah River, began in 1964 as a KOA campground. In the early 1980’s, the campground was turned into a resort. A small hotel, retaurant and cabins dotted the property. In 1999 the resort was sold to a group that turned the property into a membership supported private resort. After the economic downturn that began in 2008, the resort struggled and finally fell into foreclosure. A campground development group from South Carolina was contacted. The development group was impressed with the property which is bounded on three sides by the river. The access to the River alone begged attention. The area draws people year round and the topography offered a myraid of opportunites.
The South Carolina group purchased the property and began redevelopment. This past year, the resort has been a busy hive of activity. Trees felled by pine beetles, drought and other issues were removed. Campgrounds were cleared and expanded. Cabins were refurbished and expanded. The old hotel and restaurant were torn down. Brian Wilson is the project Manager and says the full development plans will take about 10-15 years.
The resort is now home to an event facility perfect for weddings and reunions. An indoor pool and an outdoor pool guarantee year-round fun. Campsites for traditional tent camping and RV camping have been cleared and refurbished. Showers and restroom facilites are easily accessible. Treehouses are also planned for future development. If you do not have an RV, you may rent a new RV, fully furnished, for a modest fee from River Falls. If camping doesn’t float your boat, two bedroom cabins with rocking chair porches, hot tubs and kitchens are available.
Plans are underway to provide events throughout the season. From fishing lessons on the shoals surrounding the property to family fun around the pool, everyone’s interests will be engaged. Other amenities include:
Amphitheater
Game Room
Free bicycles
Pet Friendly
Basketball Court
50amp and 30 amp available
Tubing
The Resort opened to the public this month and a grand opening celebration is planned sometime in May. Watch nowhabersham.com for the event. To find out more about the resort and to book your reservations go to www.riverfallsatthegorge.com or call 706-754-0292.
