Skip to content Black Rock Mountain
Mountain Views | Hiking | Lake Fishing
At 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is the highest state park in Georgia, sitting right on the Eastern Continental Divide. On a clear day, the overlooks reach 80 miles across the Blue Ridge into North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
It’s just 3 miles north of Clayton, close enough to our cabins for a morning hike, a lakeside picnic, or a last look at the mountains before dinner.
At a Glance
Where It Is
US-441 north from Clayton to Mountain City, then follow the brown park signs up Black Rock Mountain Parkway. The road is steep and winding, so take it slow.
What to expect
- Summit visitor center with an overlook, gift shop, and picnic tables
- Tennessee Rock Trail, a 2.2-mile loop to the summit and the park’s most popular hike
- Black Rock Lake, a 17-acre lake with an easy 0.85-mile loop and a fishing pier
- The 7.2-mile James E. Edmonds Trail for a full day, with a view over Wolffork Valley from Lookoff Mountain
Good to know
- Often noticeably cooler than the valley, so bring a layer even in summer
- The park can close in icy weather, so check before a winter visit
- Anglers 16 and older need a Georgia fishing license
- Pay parking online or at the visitor center; one pass covers every Georgia state park that day
When to Go
October – Early November
Fall color reaches the summit before the valley below. Overlooks fill up on weekends, so go early or on a weekday.
April – June
Wildflowers on the trails, streams running full, and mountain laurel and rhododendron coming into bloom.
July – August
The high elevation keeps summer days mild. A shaded hike and a picnic by the lake beat the heat.
Cabins Near Black Rock Mountain
-
Rustic meets modern in all the right ways - take a step back in time & unwind in perfect mountain peace at Heart Pine Lodge.- Clayton, GA
- 8 Guests
-
Nestled on a hill and surrounded by woods, this cozy cabin is just minutes from downtown Clayton, GA!- Clayton, GA
- 10 Guests
More to Explore
Nearby in Clayton
- Stonewall FallsEasy hike, wading pool
- Tiger Mountain VineyardsTastings with a view
- Helen, GABavarian day trip
- Highlands OutpostMountain coaster, tubing
All of Clayton
- Clayton, GA cabin rentalsEvery cabin plus the area guide
- All propertiesCoast and mountains
Our other coast
- Fort Myers Beach vacation rentalsGulf Coast, Estero Island
- Manatee ParkWinter manatee viewing
Black Rock Mountain FAQ
What's the best hike at Black Rock Mountain?
The Tennessee Rock Trail. It’s a 2.2-mile loop over the summit with views into three states on a clear day, and most people finish it in about an hour and a half.
Is there an easy walk for kids?
Yes. The 0.85-mile Lake Trail circles Black Rock Lake on gentle ground with wooden bridges and picnic tables along the creek. The summit overlook at the visitor center is right by the parking lot.
How much does it cost to visit?
There’s no entry fee, but parking requires a $10 daily ParkPass per vehicle. The same pass works at other Georgia state parks that day, including Tallulah Gorge.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails.
Make Black Rock Mountain Your Morning Out
At Coast & Range, we specialize in vacation homes that feel just right — whether you’re gathering by the beach or unwinding in the mountains. Every property is carefully chosen and curated for families and friends who want a stay that’s as comfortable as it is memorable.
