3 Reasons to Visit High Falls State Park

One of the best parts of our recent trip to Georgia was that we were able to visit not one, but two Georgia State Parks. While we stayed in the Indian Springs State Park, we were able to drive about 15 miles to visit High Falls State Park.

This two-for-one park adventure was great as both offer different dog-friendly options. While both parks offer tent and RV camping (which are always dog-friendly), the dog-friendly cabin we stayed at was only available at Indian Springs State Park. We would have loved to stay in one of High Falls State Parks’ yurts but unfortunately, the yurts are only for people.

As you know, we also wanted to join Georgia State Parks Tails on Trails hiking club this trip but the trails in Indian Springs State Park were not part of the program. Thankfully, High Falls State Park is one of the seven parks in the Tails on Trails club and it is at this park where we joined the Club and hiked our first Club trail.

No matter which park you stay at, or if you are just out for a day trip, High Falls State Park is definitely worth a visit.

1. The Lake. High Falls Lake is actually more like a reservoir as it is an impoundment of the Towaliga River. The dam controls the water flowing out to the lower part of the river.

There are many water activities available seasonally including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding and fishing. There is a lovely picnic area along the lake shore that offers nice views of cabins/houses on the other side as well as the activity on the lake.

2. The Trails. There are 4.5 miles of hiking trails within High Falls State Park which include the Historic Trail, Tranquil Trail and the Falls Trail. The two-trail duo of the Historic and Tranquil Trails are on the southwest side of the falls. Each of the two trails offers stunning waterfall views as they loop through the fern-filled forest.

The Falls Trail is part of the Tails on Trails Club and it is the one we hiked with Rocco and his friends. While the trail is supposed to start by descending down to the viewing platforms along the river and falls, you can go in the opposite direction as we did, hiking the double loop trail through the rocky, boulder-filled forest and ending at the spectacular waterfalls.

3. The Falls. Framed by large boulders, the sandy shores just below the falls provide amazing views of the tumbling and churning water. You are sure to find a boulder to perch on along the shore where you can relax to the sound of the falls – one of my favorite things to do! The other dogs hiking with us loved when we found a calm pool further from the falls where they could wade into the cool water. Despite the water levels being low during our visit, the falls were still the highlight of this park.

High Falls State Park in central Georgia is a popular camping destination but can also be a wonderful, adventurous day trip with your furry friend. So pack a picnic or pack a bag and head on over to High Falls State Park to get your tails on the trails and discover the beauty of the Georgia forest!