McCaysville Georgia

At the northern end of Fannin County bordering the state line of Georgia and Tennessee is the historic mountain town of McCaysville founded in 1904 and the second largest town in Fannin County with approximately 1,000 residents. Though today's McCaysville is a tourist destination, McCaysville was once considered only a railroad-mining town along with its neighboring border town of Copperhill Tennessee. These two neighboring towns straddle the state line of Georgia and Tennessee. Though separate towns themselves, together they form one community with two independent histories. So evident is this unique conjunction that a line has been painted down the middle of the intersection, dividing the two towns so visitors can stand with one foot in each state at the same time. Copperhill is the older of the two communities being founded after copper was discovered in the region in 1843. To learn more about the Copper Basin and the affects it had on the region you can visit the Historic Burra Burra Mine site in Ducktown Tennessee just up the road from McCaysville.

Even though the mines have come and gone leaving an environmental disaster in their wake, both the local landscape and these two towns have re-emerged from the ashes finding their own unique identity. With the popularity and close proximity of the Ocoee River Gorge's white water rafting and kayaking combined with the coming of the scenic railroad from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, a new life of tourism has blossomed in this region. The historic downtown districts of these two towns have come alive with unique shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes' along with local cabin rentals becoming increasingly popular. This new life is drawing visitors and local residents by road and rail to McCaysville to partake in a sample of its historic past alongside its more recent renovations and developments.

One of the more interesting sites in this border town is where two mountain rivers converge at the state line. At this site the Toccoa River flowing northward through the county meets at the base of the bridge along the state line of Georgia and Tennessee to become the renowned Ocoee River. These two rivers, born of the same headwaters in the southern mountains of Fannin County are actually one and the same river with two separate names. Both river names are of Cherokee ancestry.

Along the outskirts of McCaysville are two river front parks, the McCaysville City Park and the Horseshoe Bend Park.

Horseshoe Bend Park on the edge of McCaysville, offers a beautiful setting along the banks of the Toccoa River. This park has more of a rural setting with numerous picnic tables; barbecue pits and pavilions plus a playground making the park ideal for peaceful picnics while the kids see if they can wear out the playground. This park is a wonderful place for reunions and group gatherings and a great spot to access the river for anglers that can't wait to get their waders wet. "Pickin' in Horseshoe Bend Park" is another wonderful family outing, May thru September on Thursday evenings from 6 pm to dark, with artists coming in from NC, TN and GA.  The event is sponsored by Fannin County Parks and Recreation and is free to the public.

Other local McCaysville events and festivals include the Miners Homecoming, July 4th Fireworks and the Old Fashioned Mountain Christmas. It's all about the good times and friendly people that make up the heart of McCaysville. Check out the Highlander's event calendar for more information on these events.

Fannin County Welcome Center in Blue Ridge Georgia

Georgia's Blue Ridge

Surround yourself with beauty, relaxation and natural fun in Georgia’s Blue Ridge. Relax in a mountain cabin overlooking peaceful ridges and valleys. Explore charming mountain towns. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Discover our rivers, streams, lakes and waterfalls. Hike, fish, shop or simply relax.

Stop by the "Welcome Center" when you come to Blue Ridge for brochures and maps to make your trip more enjoyable.

Art Galleries & Shopping in Blue Ridge Georgia

The Art Center at Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association is passionate about art. Our Art Center Team is devoted to bringing new exhibits, new events, and new programs to our community through art and culture. We endeavor to provide a haven for artists to flourish and grow. We measure success by the success of our artists and the many galleries that help to make up our Art Town in the mountains of Blue Ridge, Georgia. We boast the largest Gallery Experience in the North Georgia Mountains, come visit us and experience a true Art Town in the Mountains.


The Art Center at Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

The Art Station was created to provide economical pricing for supplies for artists and for our art classes for children and adults. We surveyed our artists to determine the supplies most needed and we are adding to that inventory every day with requests from our artist members.

We encourage you to visit, check out our supplies. “Art, We are it!”

Adventure in and around Blue Ridge Georgia

Whitewater Rafting

The Ocoee River is often described as the roller coaster of the southeast. Come experience what has been called the greatest whitewater center in the world.  

Professional river outfitter with over 30 years experience. Our safety record is unsurpassed in the industry. We believe our staff is simply the best in the business. Guides are chosen for their character and enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with you.


Canopy Tours on the Nantahala Gorge, Chattooga Ridge and Pigeon River

Whichever course you choose you are sure to enjoy the newest outdoor adventure to hit the US. All our courses offer a soaring and gliding experience naturally fueled by a gradual drop in elevation. All trips offer fully guided tours with 2 or more Rangers on at least 10 zips, 4 bridges beginning with a training course at each location.Whichever course you choose you are sure to enjoy the newest outdoor adventure to hit the US. All our courses offer a soaring and gliding experience naturally fueled by a gradual drop in elevation. All trips offer fully guided tours with 2 or more Rangers on at least 10 zips, 4 bridges beginning with a training course at each location.


Fishing Trips in the Blue Ridge Smoky Mountains

Great mountain adventures is offering the "Best Fishing" available in the Mountains. We create a fishing trip, designed specifically towards your needs with a professional fishing guide to guide you to make the most of your fishing adventure on the Finest Lakes, Rivers and Streams in the Southern Appalachians!

Trout Treks • Bass Fishing • Wade Trips • Pan Fishing • Fly Fishing Instruction • Private Trophy Trout Waters • Drift Boat Trips. So much water to choose from and an adventure you'll never forget.

Entertainment in Blue Ridge Georgia

Blue Ridge Community Theater

There is nothing like the energy you feel when attending a live performance and we are here to help you experience that feeling. Blue Ridge Community Theater's mission is to enrich the cultural life of residents and visitors through performances, productions and education of all aspects of contemporary and classic theater.  2015 we will be hosting 7 Main Stage Shows with 12 Performances for each show, 8 evenings of music along with 13 Sunny D Performance, our Children's Theater Program.