Chattahoochee National Forest
Rabun County has nearly 155,000 acres of National Forest Land, considerably more than any county in Georgia. Of this acreage, 28,000 is managed as part of two Wildlife Management Areas. Maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, the Chattahoochee National Forest takes its name from the Chattahoochee River whose headwaters begin in the North Georgia mountains. Originally established in 1911 as part of the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests and later proclaimed as a separate forest in 1936, the Chattahoochee was founded through the purchase of old homesteads and abandoned farm land.
The
Chattahoochee National Forest boasts fabulous hiking trails, many of which lead to pretty cascades and roaring waterfalls, and a healthy deer, turkey, and bear population (last estimated to be 30,000, 6,000, and 650 respectively). The healthy wildlife population can be attributed to the combined efforts of Forest Service and Department of Natural Resources personnel, which brought previously low deer and trout populations back to today’s healthy and productive levels through forest restoration efforts such as planting trees, fighting wildfires, and controlling erosion.
For additional information, the U.S. Forest Service district office and visitor information center features exhibits and information about U.S. Forest Service facilities and activities.
Georgia State Parks
Rabun County is the only Georgia County to be home to three of our incredible state parks.
- Black Rock Mountain State Park encompasses 1,803 acres along the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. The park’s central feature, Black Rock Mountain stands at 3,640 feet high. Its majestic peak, along with five others in the park, makes Black Rock Mountain State Park Georgia’s loftiest recreational area. There are numerous scenic overlooks and hiking trails.
Black Rock Road
Mountain City, GA 30562
(706) 746-2141
- Moccasin Creek State Park, on Lake Burton in west Rabun County, is a popular park for camping and fishing. Its central location makes it a perfect jumping off spot for high country exploration.
Georgia Highway 197
Clarkesville, GA 30523
(706) 947-3194
- Tallulah Gorge State Park features one of the most spectacular gorges in the southeast, running three miles and between 600 and 1,000 feet deep. The park’s breathtaking views and the town’s rich history make this area a favorite stopping point along U.S. Highway 441. The park offers camping, lake/beach swimming, trails, and an interpretive center with exhibits and films.
U.S. Highway 441
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
(706) 754-7979
- Terrora Park is a day use park and pavilion featuring nature trails, lakeside picnicking, tennis, fishing, a playground, and seasonal swimming with lifeguards. Part of Tallulah Gorge State Park, it is handicapped accessible.
U.S. Highway 441
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
(706) 754-7970
Rabun County Parks and Recreation
The Rabun County Parks and Recreation Department offers activities for all interests and ages, including swimming, softball, football, soccer, basketball, aerobics, cake decorating and other crafts, and more. The Rabun County Recreation Park features a picnic pavilion, gymnasium, meeting rooms, ball fields, equestrian park and a swimming pool while also serving as the site of extensive recreation programs for youth and adults. Rabun County Recreation Park
(706) 782-4600
