Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA





Rating

Overview
Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this is one of the most scenic parks in the state, offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas. The park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by Sitton Gluch Creek, and elevation differs from 800 to 1980 feet. The most spectacular view into the canyon is found in the picnic area parking lot; however, additional views can be found along the rim trail. Hardy visitors who like to hike to the bottom of the gorge find two waterfalls cascading over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below. Outdoor lovers should not miss this park's spectacular scenery.

Activities & Amenities

	Hiking Trails		Picnicking		Pioneer, tent & RV Camping
	Playground		Telephones		Restrooms
	Visitor Center		Cottages		Group Lodge
	Tennis Courts		Swimming Pool		Wildlife Viewing Area
	Dump Station

Hiking
The park has over 15 miles of hiking trails. The West Rim Waterfall Trail is my favorite and most tiring. The trail starts at the top of the canyon near the main parking lot, goes through the campgrounds and loops around the west rim cottages. During the decent expect alot of stairs but great views of the canyon walls and hardwoods. On the west rim you can expect great views of the entire canyon. You can also drive to the campground and do just part of the trail if you want to get a view of the canyon from the west side. If you don't want to do a long hike then make sure to at least hike down to see the waterfalls.

The backcountry trails offer great views of the east side of the canyon and meanders through pine and hardwood forests. You must get a permit at the ranger's station before attempting these trails. Bear Creek is a great trail if you want to see the east side of the canyon, and the Backcountry Trail is also a good trail for primative camping.

Camping
Camping is available for tent, RV and trailers and also great primative campers. The park offers 73 tent and trailer sites, each with water and electrical hook-ups, table and grill. Each camping area has a comfort station with hot showers, and a sanitary disposal station is on the way out of the park. Additionally, there are 30 walk-in tent sites without water and electricity; however, they do have tables. A comfort station with hot showers is available. Rates for Tent camping is 15.00 per night(with hook-ups),  RV and Trailers for $17.00, walk-in with confort station for $9.00, and back country trail camping for $4.00 per night. Pioneer camping is $25.00 per night with a 25 maximum person capacity.

Cottages
There are 16 two-and/or three-bedroom cottages for rent. Sleeping capacity is 8-10 persons. All are fully equipped with heat and air conditioning, fireplaces and screen porches. Reservations are taken up to 11 months in advance with a two night minimum stay during most months. There is a seven-night minimum from June through Labor Day. No pets are permitted. The group lodge is also available for $135.00 per night and sleeps 40 persons.

Cottage Rates:

Picnicking
There are 75 picnic sites and six shelters. Visitors are asked to use designated picnis areas only. Shelters are reservable and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A large day-use group shelter is available with BBQ and dining hall which will seat 200 persons.

Swimming
A pool is open from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend and is closed on Mondays except legal holidays. hours of operation are 11:00am to 6:00pm. Cottage guests swim free others must pay a small fee.

Tennis
Lighted tennis courts are open year-round and are available for day or evening use.

Annual Events
Wildflower Program (April)
Outdoor Adventure Weekend (April)
Fishing Rodeo (July)

Nearby Attractions
Chief Vann House State Historic Site
James H. Sloppy Floyd State Park
Crockford Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Park Times and Information
7:00am - 10:00pm
Office Hours 8:00am - 5:00pm

Park Fee Information
A $2 daily or $25 annual parking fee is required.  The ParkPass is valid at all state parks visited that day, and Wednesdays are free days.   Annual ParkPasses are sold at park offices (senior discounts available) or by calling (404) 657-9851.

Some information has been provided by GA State Parks Dept.