Georgia’s “highest state park” is truly a sight to behold. With views spanning over 80 miles in every direction, multiple hiking trails, waterfalls, and no shortage of things to see and do, this mountaintop retreat makes for the perfect winter weekend getaway. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to Black Rock Mountain State Park.
Black Rock Mountain State Park offers plenty of camping within the park, including cottages and tent, trailer, and RV sites. Tent sites are spacious, offering plenty of walk-in space and added privacy. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider grabbing a backcountry campsite that really feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere.
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With 11 miles of trails in varying ranges of difficulty, you can get explore the area in the best possible way. The backcountry trails are among the most challenging, but also the most rewarding. Views of streams, waterfalls, lakes, and forests surround you every step of the way, and without foliage blocking your view, you’ll be able to see it all.
This growing trend is popular at Black Rock Mountain, with dozens of caches throughout the park. This old-fashioned treasure hunt lets you discover hidden areas where prizes have been stashed. Take it, then leave one for the next person.
Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean all water activities are off limits. Bring your own canoe or kayak and launch it in the small lake to experience the park in a whole new way. The 17-acre lake is perfect for a casual paddling trip while you soak up the sights and sounds of nature.
Speaking of the lake, it’s also a prime spot for winter fishing. There are various streams and rivers making Lake Chatuge abundant in trout for fishing—so one of your camping meals just might be “free.” Be sure that you have your fishing license on hand and are familiar with Georgia’s laws and regulations surrounding the sport of fishing.
This iconic North Georgia restaurant is family-style country cookin’ at its finest. This piece of history offers sweeping views of rolling hills and majestic mountains, along with homemade everything that never skimps on quality. They also offer on-site accommodations, a small zoo, horseback riding, trout fishing, and other family-friendly activities.
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This unique little antique store is brimming with interesting finds. Inside you’ll find tools and treasures of old that illustrate what life was like in the Georgia mountains decades (or more!) ago. Think of it as an old-fashioned general store, history museum, and gift shop all rolled into one.
Not far from the park, you can grab a delicious meal at Clark’s on Main. Take a seat on their rooftop deck for beautiful mountain views (if it’s not too cold!) or sit in their warm, cozy bar area for fresh wings, appetizers, salads, burgers, tacos, and more. The homey atmosphere is warm and inviting, and will make you feel like part of the family.
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Travel south from Black Rock Mountain State Park to experience some of the best honey you’ve ever had. This sweet spot makes several flavors of honey with their own bee colonies, as well as provide all the tools you need to start your own beekeeping at home. You can sign up for classes, or simply grab a few bottles of tasty honey to take home with you.
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One of the most unique roadside attractions in Northeast Georgia, Goats on the Roof makes the perfect pit stop to grab a snack and stretch your legs. Their family of goats are roaming the whimsical structures that frame the outside. Inside you’ll find fresh ice cream, boiled peanuts, souvenirs, a playground, and a full-service cafe with kid-friendly eats.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
