Cloudland Canyon

Nestled on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park stands as one of Georgia's most breathtaking natural wonders and a premier destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. This magnificent park, located in Rising Fawn, offers a rugged and truly unique geological landscape, characterized by a deep gorge carved into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek. With elevations ranging dramatically from 800 to 1,980 feet, the park provides stunning panoramic views, lush forests, and the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls. Cloudland Canyon is more than just a campground; it is an immersive experience into the heart of Georgia's natural beauty, inviting visitors to explore, relax, and reconnect with the wilderness.

For those seeking an escape from the daily routine, Cloudland Canyon provides an unparalleled opportunity to unwind. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to tackle challenging trails, a family looking for a peaceful spot to camp, or simply someone yearning for stunning vistas, this park caters to a wide array of interests. Its diverse topography supports a rich ecosystem, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife observation and nature photography. From the iconic waterfalls plunging into the canyon depths to the serene rim trails offering expansive views, every corner of Cloudland Canyon promises a memorable adventure. We are proud to be a part of Georgia's State Parks system, dedicated to preserving these natural treasures for all to enjoy.

Cloudland Canyon State Park is strategically located at Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, USA, making it an accessible natural haven for residents across Georgia and beyond. Situated in the northwest corner of the state, just a short drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee, the park offers a convenient escape into the wilderness without being too remote. For those traveling from major Georgian cities like Atlanta, the drive is manageable, typically around two hours, allowing for both weekend trips and extended stays.

The park's address is straightforward to navigate with GPS, ensuring a smooth journey to your chosen campsite or accommodation. The well-maintained roads leading to and within the park are suitable for all vehicle types, including large RVs. This ease of access means less time worrying about directions and more time enjoying the spectacular scenery that awaits you. Despite its accessibility, Cloudland Canyon retains a sense of secluded tranquility, allowing visitors to truly feel immersed in nature. Its proximity to charming local towns also means that essential supplies and additional amenities are never too far away, blending convenience with an authentic outdoor experience.

Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a comprehensive range of services and lodging options designed to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for all visitors.

• Tent, Trailer, and RV Campsites: The park features 72 modern campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Many of these sites come equipped with electrical hookups (20, 30, or 50 amp) and water hookups. Some host sites also offer sewer connections. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grill.

• Walk-in Tent Sites: For a more traditional and private tent camping experience, there are 30 walk-in campsites. These sites offer greater seclusion and are generally well-spaced, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is a main bathhouse near the parking area serving these sites.

• Backcountry Campsites: For experienced backpackers seeking a more rugged adventure, Cloudland Canyon offers 13 primitive backcountry campsites located along a 2-mile loop trail. These sites provide a true wilderness experience.

• Yurts: For those who prefer a "glamping" experience, the park has 10 yurts available. These circular, tent-like structures offer electricity, heating, air conditioning, and bunk beds, sleeping up to six people, providing a comfortable blend of camping and cabin living.

• Cottages: The park also features 16 fully equipped cottages, perfect for families or groups seeking more comfort. These cottages typically include full kitchens, fireplaces, fire rings, picnic tables, and climate control.

• Clean Restroom and Hot Shower Facilities: Modern and well-maintained restroom and hot shower facilities are conveniently located throughout the campgrounds.

• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RV campers on-site.

• Gift Shop: The park office includes a gift shop where visitors can purchase hiking sticks, camping supplies, snacks, toys, and other souvenirs.

• Picnic Shelters: Several picnic shelters are available for day use or can be rented for larger gatherings.

• Playgrounds: Playgrounds are located in the main campgrounds, perfect for younger visitors.

Cloudland Canyon State Park is renowned for its exceptional features and highlights that draw visitors from across Georgia and beyond, making it a truly remarkable destination.

• Breathtaking Canyon Views: The most iconic feature is the deep, thousand-foot-deep canyon itself. The main overlooks near the picnic area parking lot provide easily accessible, spectacular panoramic views, while other viewpoints can be found along the rim trails.

• Spectacular Waterfalls: The park is home to two magnificent waterfalls, Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls, which cascade over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below. The strenuous but rewarding Waterfalls Trail involves a descent of 600 metal steps to reach them, a true highlight for many visitors.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Cloudland Canyon boasts over 60 miles of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. Popular trails include the easy Overlook Trail (1 mile), the moderately strenuous West Rim Loop Trail (5 miles – rated one of America's best by Backpacker magazine), the challenging Waterfalls Trail (2 miles), and the strenuous Sitton's Gulch Trail (6 miles), which descends deep into the canyon floor.

• Mountain Biking Opportunities: Over 30 miles of mountain biking trails are available, including the 14-mile Cloudland Connector Trail and trails in the adjacent 5 Points Recreation Area. Bikes can be rented from the Visitor Center.

• Disc Golf Course: An 18-basket disc golf course weaves through fields and forests, providing a fun activity for enthusiasts.

• Caving: For experienced wild cavers, exploration of the park's cave systems is possible during specific months (April, June-July, September-October) with proper permits and reservations.

• Fishing Pond: A 1-acre fishing pond stocked with channel catfish is available for catch-and-release fishing for much of the year, and catch-and-keep during other seasons.

• Pet-Friendly: Cloudland Canyon is a pet-friendly park, allowing well-behaved dogs on leashes on most trails and in campgrounds.

For all inquiries, reservations, or additional information regarding Cloudland Canyon State Park, please use the contact details provided below.

Address: Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, USA

Phone: (706) 657-4050 or (800) 864-7275 (for reservations)

For locals throughout Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park represents an unparalleled opportunity for recreation and rejuvenation right in their own state. Its relatively central location in North Georgia makes it an accessible destination for a wide range of Georgians, from Atlanta to other regional hubs. This means less travel time and more quality time spent immersing oneself in nature's splendor. The park's diverse offerings, from challenging hikes for adventurous spirits to comfortable glamping yurts for families seeking a touch of luxury in the wild, ensure that there's an experience tailored to every local's preference.

Cloudland Canyon provides Georgians with an invaluable chance to disconnect from the daily hustle and reconnect with the natural world. Whether it's the thrill of descending into the canyon to witness the majestic waterfalls, the tranquility of a walk along the West Rim Loop, or the simple joy of a campfire under a starry sky, the park offers a profound sense of escape and wonder. For families, it’s an ideal setting for creating lasting memories, fostering an appreciation for the outdoors in children. The convenience of well-maintained facilities, combined with the raw beauty of the wilderness, makes Cloudland Canyon State Park a perfect embodiment of Georgia’s natural charm, truly a gem in our state park system that locals should experience again and again. It is a testament to Georgia's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and providing accessible outdoor adventures for all its residents.