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Georgia
19

Georgia State Parks

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USA Parks
Georgia
Northeast Georgia Mountains Region
Moccasin Creek State Park
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Moccasin Creek State Park Hemlock Falls © Ben Prepelka
Hemlock Falls
Moccasin Creek State Park Hemlock Falls © Ben Prepelka
Hemlock Falls Trailhead
Moccasin Creek State Park Moccasin State Park entrance © Ben Prepelka
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MOCCASIN CREEK STATE PARK
MOCCASIN CREEK STATE PARK
3655 Hwy 197
Clarksville, Georgia   30523

Phone: 706-947-3194
Reservations: 800-864-7275
Known as the park ?where spring spends the summer,? Moccasin Creek is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains on the shores of lovely 2,800-acre Lake Burton. Despite its mountain location, the park is relatively flat, offering easy navigation for large RVs, children?s bicycles and wheelchairs. A fully accessible fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children. Tour the adjacent trout rearing station, hike on several nearby mountain trails or simply relax in this peaceful setting. The park?s central location makes it a perfect jumping off spot for mountain exploration.
History of the Area
Located in the northeastern part of Georgia, near Lake Burton, the park was established to provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Before designation as a state recreational area, this land primarily served agricultural purposes with local families farming and residing on it. The surrounding region is rich in Cherokee history; European settlers arrived later.

The park features Hemlock Falls Trail leading visitors to a scenic waterfall. Over time, facilities have been developed including campgrounds and picnic areas enhancing visitor experience while preserving its rustic charm.

Changes include modernized amenities ensuring accessibility for all guests without compromising environmental integrity or historic value. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect native species and habitats within its boundaries.
Camping
1. RV Camping: Offers 54 campsites with electric and water hookups suitable for recreational vehicles.
2. Tent Camping: Designated areas available alongside the creek for traditional tent camping experience.
3. Picnic Shelters: Day-use picnic shelters can be reserved in advance; not intended for overnight stays but great for daytime gatherings.
4. Pioneer Campground: A primitive group camping area designed specifically to accommodate larger groups such as scouts or youth organizations.
5. Lakefront Sites: Some sites offer direct access to Lake Burton, ideal for anglers and boaters looking to stay close to the water.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options. It is located on the shores of Lake Burton, which allows for motorized and non-motorized boats. There's an accessible fishing pier in a trout-filled stream where visitors can fish from their boat or canoe/kayak rentals are also available at the park office. A private company operates seasonal pontoon boat tours around lake as well.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in a 54-acre lake, home to largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. Trout streams are also available.



Picnicking
Moccasin Creek State Park offers picnic tables and grills for visitors. There's also a covered pavilion available to rent.
Trails
1. Hemlock Falls Trail: A 2-mile round trip trail that leads to the scenic Hemlock Falls, suitable for hikers of all skill levels and popular for its waterfall views.

2. Noname Trail: This is a less-traveled half-mile path connecting campgrounds with other trails within the park; it offers a quick nature escape without difficult terrain.

3. Lake Loop Trail: Encircling the entire lake, this approximately 3-mile loop provides picturesque water vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat along an easy-to-walk pathway.

4. Central State Hospital Nature Trails (accessible from Moccasin Creek): Though not directly inside Moccasin Creek State Park boundaries, these nearby trails offer additional hiking options ranging up to several miles through diverse ecosystems adjacent to state hospital grounds.
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding options, with diverse species such as warblers and woodpeckers. Birdwatchers can explore the 2-mile nature trail or rent boats to view waterfowl on Lake Burton. The park also hosts annual events like the Christmas Bird Count for enthusiasts.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 10
park review stars; one to five
May 6 a beautiful park by weary traveler
park review stars; one to five it is a restful place to go and get away from the stress of life and relax.i can not wait to go back
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Area Campgrounds
Long Ridge Campground
180 Jarrard Camp Road
Hiawassee, GA
762-500-2055
Mr Bud's Camp Ground
7796 Georgia 197
Clarkesville, GA
706-947-3420
Cherokee Campground
45 Bethel Road
Sautee Nacoochee, GA
706-878-2267
Creekwood Resort
5730 Georgia 356
Sautee Nacoochee, GA
706-878-2164
Unicoi Springs RV Resort
2444 Georgia 356
Helen, GA
706-878-2104
Hiawassee KOA Holiday
751 Gander Gap Road
Hiawassee, GA
888-562-3202
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Located 20 miles north of Clarkesville on Ga. Hwy. 197 or 15 miles west of Clayton via Ga. Hwy. 76 and Ga. Hwy. 197.

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Georgia
19

Georgia State Parks

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