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Parks

Moccasin Creek State Park

4.7 · 884 reviews
A tranquil and family-oriented woodland retreat
Moccasin Creek State Park, 3655 GA-197, Clarkesville, GA 30523, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park is adjacent to the Lake Burton Trout Hatchery, which stocks Moccasin Creek and nearby waters.

2

Moccasin Creek is known for having a specialized fishing area strictly reserved for children under 12 and senior citizens.

3

The park is one of the smallest state parks in Georgia, covering only 32 acres of land.

4

The Hemlock Falls Trail, accessible from the park, features a wooden footbridge and ends at a multi-tiered waterfall.

5

Lake Burton, where the park is situated, is a reservoir created by Georgia Power in 1917.

Overview

Moccasin Creek State Park is located on the western shore of Lake Burton in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia. The park is uniquely oriented toward trout fishing, featuring a community fishing pier and a designated fishing area specifically for children and seniors located at the adjacent trout hatchery. Visitors have access to 50 campsites, all equipped with electrical and water hookups, situated along the shoreline. The park provides a boat ramp and docking facilities for direct access to the 2,775-acre lake. Hikers can utilize the Hemlock Falls Trail, which connects to the park and leads to a waterfall. The terrain is relatively flat and compact, making it one of Georgia's smallest state parks. The site operates in partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to maintain water quality and recreational infrastructure. It remains a primary destination for anglers targeting stocked trout in the local mountain streams.

Photo spot

The wooden footbridge on the Hemlock Falls Trail looking toward the falls.

Insider tips

Arrive early during spring and summer weekends as the small, popular campground frequently reaches full capacity.

Bring polarized sunglasses to better spot trout in the shallow, clear waters of the creek.

Check the park's status for the seasonal trout stocking schedule to time your fishing trip effectively.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to fish in the restricted areas reserved for seniors and children if you do not meet the age requirements.

Good to know

The park remains open year-round, but camping reservations are highly recommended during peak holiday weekends.

Etiquette

Practice catch-and-release where posted, maintain quiet hours in the campground, and pack out all trash to preserve the stream habitat.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours for day use; 2-3 days for camping
Best time to visit
Spring and early summer for the peak trout fishing season and cooler mountain temperatures.
Address
Moccasin Creek State Park, 3655 GA-197, Clarkesville, GA 30523, United States
34.845, -83.588
Get directions
Details
Fishing AccessCommunity pier and senior/child-only fishing area
Trail FeaturesHemlock Falls moderate hiking path

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours for day use; 2-3 days for camping to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring and early summer for the peak trout fishing season and cooler mountain temperatures..

The wooden footbridge on the Hemlock Falls Trail looking toward the falls.

Close by you'll find Hemlock Falls Trailhead, Tallulah Gorge State Park, Unicoi State Park & Lodge.