Adventure: Cloudland Canyon
I love camping at state parks, and I truly believe that they give you some of the best spots and views of mother nature herself. When you first arrive to the park, the office/store front is where you will be checking in. The store has all of your essentials and gifts as well.
On to the campground, you will see that the RV spots are huge. There is plenty of shade from the trees, but at our site it was not full hook-up, meaning no sewer. But no worries. There was a huge dump station on the way out that was more than convenient. Bath houses are available, as well as updated and clean playground areas. Other camping options available are primitive tent camping, cabins and yurts.
Click here for Campground Map.
When you come to Cloudland Canyon, the name says it all ... you are here for the Canyon. There are many different hikes, cave exploring, biking trails, horseback riding trails and fishing. The trails that we went on ranged from easy to strenuous! Need a trails map? Here you go.
Overlook Trail
Overlook Trail is a one mile trail that is marked easy. The path was just fine for all ages, and we were even able to push our BOB stroller on the trail. I would not recommend a stroller that is not set up for running or rugged terrains. On the trail are two overlook viewing opportunities. The views of the canyon are so picturesque, especially during the fall season. You can even hear the waterfalls gushing down below. In this area, there are plenty of picnic areas, benches and covered areas for a picnic or family gathering.
WaterFalls Trail (access to Cherokee and Hemlock Falls) begins at the Main Trailhead, but we were able to access the trail from our RV site as well. This two mile hike was labeled as strenuous, due to large rocks, uneven paths and tree roots. You really had to watch you step, but my husband and I were carrying our children in our hiking carriers, and we were fine. Just watch your step and be sure to use a hiking stick for support. Along the path, you are able to see the yurts, caves, go over beautiful creeks, and stand under Turtle Rock.
The first falls that you come to is Cherokee Falls. But to get to these falls you have to go down 600 stairs. That is not an exaggeration. There really are 600 metal stairs that you will take to get down and closer to the falls. But it is definitely worth it. Thankfully there are also handrails to help keep you stable and safe. When you arrive, you come to a huge opening to where the falls are cascading into a pool below. If you are adventurous enough, there are ways to get closer to the waterfall, even though I saved that for the young middle school boys.
Close nearby but in the opposite direction, is Hemlock Falls. Many believe that Hemlock Falls is much prettier, but it definitely is bigger and the water is gushing much stronger there. The path will lead you to a viewing deck, where you are able to view the waterfall and rest from all of those stairs. I would highly recommend going around the deck, and take the path to get up close and personal with the waterfall. There are some large rocks to crawl over, but it is totally doable and safe. We had our three year old down there with no issue. You can get the perfect view of the waterfall and pool! Those daring middle school boys decided to jump in the freezing cold waters as well. Again, I will leave that to them!
There are several other trails available including much more strenuous and intense trails. The Backcountry Trails truly are more advanced, and would involve more planning and time for sure. Those trails also have more views of waterfalls, caves and more views of the Canyon.
Be sure to check out Cloudland Canyon for all the year round fun and year round camping. Cloudland Canyon is part of the Canyon Climbers Club, which challenges hikers to do a number of canyons in Georgia and earn prizes for doing it. In fact, if you have already done Providence Canyon like we did, then you are already one step ahead!
Click here for the Canyon Climbers Club.