Welcome to Black Rock Mountain State Park, the ultimate destination for outdoor adventure in Georgia. Situated in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, this park offers stunning scenery, exciting activities, and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Georgia. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Black Rock Mountain State Park has it all.
Key Takeaways:
- Black Rock Mountain State Park is the highest elevation state park in Georgia.
- The park offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Activities include hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking.
- The park provides various accommodations and facilities for visitors.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Moccasin Creek State Park and Tallulah Gorge State Park.
Contents
- 1 Essential Information for Visiting Black Rock Mountain State Park
- 2 Park Highlights: Scenic Views and Recreation
- 3 Activities at Black Rock Mountain State Park
- 4 Accommodations and Facilities
- 5 Exploring the Area: Nearby Attractions
- 6 Services and Facilities
- 7 Park History: From Cherokee Settlements to State Park
- 8 Conclusion
- 9 FAQ
- 10 Source Links
Essential Information for Visiting Black Rock Mountain State Park
When planning a visit to Black Rock Mountain State Park in Georgia, it’s important to have all the essential information to make the most of your trip. From park hours and entry fees to contact information, here’s what you need to know:
| Park Location | 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway, Clayton, Georgia |
|---|---|
| Park Hours | 7:00am – 10:00pm (open daily) |
| Entry Fees | $5 parking fee for daily entry $50 annual park pass |
| Contact Information | Phone: 706-746-2141 or 1-800-864-7275 Official Website: https://gaparks.org/blackrockmountain |
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, knowing the park’s location, opening hours, and entry fees is essential. The park is easily accessible at 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway in Clayton, Georgia. It’s open daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm, allowing visitors plenty of time to explore its natural wonders.
As for entry fees, there is a $5 parking fee for daily entry. Alternatively, visitors can purchase an annual park pass for $50, which allows unlimited access to Black Rock Mountain State Park and other Georgia State Parks throughout the year.
To make reservations or seek further information, interested individuals can contact the park directly at 706-746-2141 or 1-800-864-7275. The park’s official website, https://gaparks.org/blackrockmountain, also provides valuable information and resources for planning your visit.
Park Highlights: Scenic Views and Recreation
Black Rock Mountain State Park offers a range of highlights that make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning panoramic views, diverse hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picturesque picnic spots, this park is a nature lover’s paradise.
One of the main attractions of Black Rock Mountain State Park is its breathtaking scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From the park’s overlooks, visitors can enjoy vistas that stretch up to 80 miles on clear days, providing an awe-inspiring experience and the perfect backdrop for memorable outdoor adventures.
Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted with the park’s 11 miles of trails, catering to a variety of skill levels. From easy ADA-accessible trails to more challenging backcountry routes, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, the trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty and discover hidden gems along the way.
Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines in the park’s 17-acre lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and other fish species, making it a favorite spot for angling. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, fishing in this serene setting is a relaxing and rewarding experience.
For those looking to enjoy a picnic amidst nature, Black Rock Mountain State Park has numerous picnic areas scattered throughout its grounds. These designated spots provide the perfect setting for outdoor meals and relaxation, allowing visitors to soak in the park’s tranquility while enjoying delicious food.
Table: Park Highlights
| Scenic Views | Hiking Trails | Fishing | Picnicking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. | Explore 11 miles of diverse hiking trails for all skill levels. | Cast your line in the park’s stocked 17-acre lake. | Relax and dine amidst nature in designated picnic areas. |
Activities at Black Rock Mountain State Park
Black Rock Mountain State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, this park has something to offer.
Hiking Trails
One of the highlights of Black Rock Mountain State Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. With 11 miles of trails to explore, hikers can choose from a range of difficulty levels, from easy ADA-accessible paths to challenging backcountry routes. As you hike through the park, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding natural beauty.
Camping
For those looking to spend the night immersed in nature, Black Rock Mountain State Park provides a variety of camping options. From comfortable cottages to tent, trailer, and RV campsites, there’s an accommodation choice to suit everyone’s preferences. Fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the peaceful sounds of nature surrounding you.
Geocaching
If you enjoy treasure hunting and using GPS technology, then geocaching at Black Rock Mountain State Park is an activity you won’t want to miss. Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to locate hidden containers, or “caches,” throughout the park. It’s a fun way to explore the area and discover hidden gems along the way.
Photography
With its stunning vistas and diverse wildlife, Black Rock Mountain State Park is a paradise for photographers. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’ll find endless opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Don’t forget your camera!
From hiking and camping to geocaching and photography, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers a range of activities to suit every interest. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the beauty of Georgia’s highest elevation state park.
Accommodations and Facilities
When visiting Black Rock Mountain State Park, visitors can take advantage of a range of accommodations and facilities to enhance their stay. Whether you prefer a cozy cottage or a campsite surrounded by nature, the park has options to suit every preference.
The park offers 10 comfortable cottages for overnight stays. These cottages provide a convenient and relaxing home-away-from-home experience during your visit. Each cottage is equipped with modern amenities and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding scenery.
In addition to the cottages, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers a variety of camping options. From tent sites to RV campsites, there are choices for every type of camper. Backcountry and pioneer campgrounds are also available for those seeking a more rustic experience.
| Accommodations | Description |
|---|---|
| Cottages | Cozy accommodations with modern amenities and stunning views. |
| Camping | Options for tent, trailer, and RV campers, as well as backcountry and pioneer campgrounds. |
Black Rock Mountain State Park also provides essential facilities to ensure your comfort and convenience. The park features a visitor center and gift shop, where you can gather information about the park and purchase souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Other facilities include picnic shelters, a playground, restrooms, showers, and a trading post.
With its range of accommodations and facilities, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Exploring the Area: Nearby Attractions
Black Rock Mountain State Park is not only a destination in itself but also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of its surrounding area. Located in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, there are numerous attractions nearby that offer additional opportunities for outdoor exploration and enjoyment.
Moccasin Creek State Park
Just a short drive from Black Rock Mountain State Park, Moccasin Creek State Park is a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Burton. This scenic park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Visitors can also explore the picturesque Hemlock Falls or simply relax and take in the beauty of the lake and surrounding forest.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, a visit to Tallulah Gorge State Park is a must. Known for its stunning 1,000-foot-deep gorge carved by the Tallulah River, this park offers incredible views and thrilling adventures. Visitors can hike down into the gorge, cross the suspension bridge, or even take part in rock climbing and whitewater kayaking. The park also features several waterfalls, including the breathtaking Tallulah Falls.
Whether you’re looking for serene natural surroundings or heart-pumping outdoor activities, the nearby attractions to Black Rock Mountain State Park have something for everyone. From the tranquil beauty of Moccasin Creek State Park to the rugged excitement of Tallulah Gorge, exploring the area surrounding Black Rock Mountain State Park is guaranteed to be a memorable experience.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Moccasin Creek State Park | Nestled on the shores of Lake Burton, this scenic park offers boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. |
| Tallulah Gorge State Park | Known for its deep gorge and stunning waterfalls, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. |
Services and Facilities
When visiting Black Rock Mountain State Park, you can expect a range of services and facilities to enhance your outdoor experience. From cable hook-up for your RV to fishing spots and playgrounds for the kids, the park has you covered.
Here is a list of some of the services and facilities available:
- Cable hook-up for RVs
- Children’s activities
- Comfort stations
- Electric hook-ups
- Fire rings for campfires
- Fishing spots in the lake
- Gift/souvenir shop
- Grilling areas for cookouts
- Hiking trails for exploration
Additionally, the park provides overlooks with breathtaking views, parking areas for convenience, picnic tables for outdoor meals, restrooms and showers for your comfort, sewage dump stations for RVs, and a washer/dryer facility for your laundry needs.
| Services and Facilities | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Cable hook-up | RV campsites | Available for all campsites |
| Children’s activities | Playground | Available for all visitors |
| Comfort stations | Throughout the park | Available for all visitors |
| Electric hook-ups | RV campsites | Available for all campsites |
| Fire rings | Campsites | Available for all campsites |
| Fishing spots | Lake | Available for all visitors |
| Gift/souvenir shop | Visitor center | Available for all visitors |
| Grilling areas | Picnic areas | Available for all visitors |
| Hiking trails | Throughout the park | Available for all visitors |
| Overlooks | Scenic points | Available for all visitors |
| Parking areas | Throughout the park | Available for all visitors |
| Picnic tables | Picnic areas | Available for all visitors |
| Restrooms and showers | Throughout the park | Available for all visitors |
| Sewage dump stations | RV campsites | Available for all campsites |
| Washer/dryer facility | Laundry area | Available for all visitors |
Park History: From Cherokee Settlements to State Park
The rich history of Black Rock Mountain State Park dates back to its origins as a land inhabited by Cherokee settlements. The park’s stunning natural beauty and panoramic views captivated European explorers, including the renowned naturalist William Bartram, who documented their experiences in vivid detail.
The development of Black Rock Mountain State Park began in the late 1930s when local resident John V. Arrendale acquired the land. Over the years, the park expanded and evolved into Georgia’s highest state park, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from near and far.
The Cherokee settlements that once thrived on this land serve as a reminder of the deep connections between nature and human history. European explorers like William Bartram were drawn to the area’s breathtaking scenery and documented their awe-inspiring encounters through writings, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate.
The beauty of Black Rock Mountain State Park is not only in its landscape but also in its historical significance. The park’s journey from Cherokee settlements to becoming Georgia’s highest state park is a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and nature.”
Explorers and Settlers: William Bartram and the European Influence
One of the most notable figures to explore Black Rock Mountain and the surrounding areas was William Bartram. As a naturalist and explorer, Bartram documented the plant and animal life, along with the awe-inspiring vistas he encountered in his travels. His writings brought attention to the region’s beauty, contributing to its eventual recognition as a state park.
The park’s history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the land. From the Cherokee settlements to the European explorers and settlers who followed, Black Rock Mountain has always held a special place in the hearts of those who have experienced its majesty.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1939 | John V. Arrendale acquires the land |
| 1952 | Black Rock Mountain becomes a state park |
| 1975 | Visitor center and gift shop are established |
| 1988 | Black Rock Lake is created |
The history of Black Rock Mountain State Park is not only reflected in its natural wonders but also in its structures and facilities. The establishment of a visitor center and gift shop in 1975 provided a hub for park information, while the creation of Black Rock Lake in 1988 added a new recreational feature for visitors to enjoy.
Conclusion
Black Rock Mountain State Park in Georgia is a haven for outdoor adventure and nature exploration. As the highest elevation state park in the state, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a camping enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys immersing themselves in the beauty of nature, this park has something for everyone.
With its extensive network of hiking trails, you can embark on thrilling adventures through diverse landscapes, from easy strolls to challenging treks. The park’s camping options provide the perfect opportunity to experience the great outdoors and spend nights under the starry skies. Don’t forget your camera, as the scenic beauty of the park will inspire you to capture the magic through photography.
Georgia state parks are renowned for their natural wonders, and Black Rock Mountain State Park is no exception. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the tranquility of nature. So, if you’re seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the heart of Georgia, pack your bags and head to Black Rock Mountain State Park for an experience you won’t soon forget.
FAQ
Where is Black Rock Mountain State Park located?
Black Rock Mountain State Park is located at 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway in Clayton, Georgia.
What are the park hours?
The park is open daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm.
Is there an entry fee to visit the park?
Yes, there is a $5 parking fee for daily entry. Alternatively, visitors can purchase an annual park pass for $50.
How can I contact the park for reservations or inquiries?
Visitors can contact the park at 706-746-2141 or 1-800-864-7275 for reservations and inquiries.
Where can I find more information about Black Rock Mountain State Park?
More information can be found on the official website of Georgia State Parks.
What are the highlights of the park?
Black Rock Mountain State Park offers breathtaking scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with overlooks providing vistas that stretch up to 80 miles on clear days.
What recreational activities are available at the park?
The park features 11 miles of hiking trails, a 17-acre lake for fishing, picnic areas, camping options, geocaching, and opportunities for photography.
What accommodations are available at Black Rock Mountain State Park?
The park offers 10 cottages for overnight stays, as well as tent, trailer, and RV campsites. There are also backcountry and pioneer campgrounds.
What facilities are available at the park?
The park features a visitor center and gift shop, picnic shelters, a playground, restrooms, showers, and a trading post. Other amenities include cable hook-up, grilling areas, and hiking trails.
What are some nearby attractions to explore?
Nearby attractions include the Blue Ridge Mountains, Moccasin Creek State Park, and Tallulah Gorge State Park, all offering additional outdoor activities and natural beauty.
What is the history of Black Rock Mountain State Park?
The land was originally home to Cherokee settlements, and European explorers like William Bartram ventured through the area. The park’s development started in the late 1930s, eventually becoming Georgia’s highest state park.
