January tends to be too cold to do much outside. And, as COVID-19 numbers continue to rise in northeast Georgia, it’s not a great time to gather inside either. Feeling house-bound? Are the walls closing in on you? You may be ready to get out for a scenic drive that is safe and beautiful. It could even restore your soul. In northeast Georgia, we have the perfect destination – Black Rock Mountain State Park.
Black Rock Mountain State Park is set at an altitude of 3,640, the highest elevation of any of Georgia’s state parks. Just north of Clayton in Mountain City, Georgia, the park covers 1,743 acres. The main road runs along the ridge line of Black Rock Mountain and offers incredible views on the valley below. From the top, four states can be. Visitors can see for more than 80 miles from pull-offs along the main road through the park. A series of overlooks are available for the best views. If you plan to leave your car, dress warmly. The wind can get fierce at that altitude and the temperature is usually colder at the top. The road can ice over, so be sure to check before you go. You can get up-to-date information by calling the Visitor Center at (706) 864-7275.
The park’s Visitor Center is open, requiring masks to enter and allowing only four people inside at one time. Besides a map of the park, an interesting collection of unique gifts and tourist items is available. A covered picnic area is available as well.
At the end of the main road are ten mountain-top cabins which can be rented. Two of the cabins are pet-friendly. Reservations can be made at Georgia State Parks. Campsites located in another section of the park can also be reserved through the same website.
Entry into the park requires a $5.00 parking fee or displaying an annual state park pass.
Black Rock Mountain State Park is located in Rabun County at 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway, Mountain City, Georgia 30562. (GPS Coordinates N34.9069220/W -83.4083750)
