High Falls State Park
Just northwest of Macon along the I-75 corridor, High Falls State Park showcases the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta. The thundering waters of the Towaliga River tumble over ancient rocks, creating a spectacular natural display that has drawn visitors for centuries.
But the falls are just the beginning. The park’s 650-acre High Falls Lake is recognized as one of the nation’s top family fishing destinations, famous for hybrid and white bass. Paddlers, boaters, and anglers share these productive waters, while campers enjoy lakeside yurts and spacious campgrounds.
History buffs will discover the fascinating ruins of a once-prosperous 1800s industrial town—including the remains of a hydroelectric power plant, grist mill, cotton gin, and hotel. When the railroad bypassed High Falls in the 1880s, the town fell into decline, leaving an atmospheric ghost town that nature has slowly reclaimed.
Park Fast Facts
High Falls State Park is located northwest of Macon, Georgia along the I-75 corridor.
| 📍 Location | 76 High Falls Park Dr, Jackson, GA 30233 |
| 🗺️ Region | Central Georgia (near Macon) |
| 📐 Total Area | 1,050 acres |
| 🌊 Lake Size | 650 acres |
| ⏰ Hours | 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. |
| 📞 Phone | (478) 993-3053 |
Accommodations
| Accommodation | Count | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🛖 Yurts | 6 | Lakeside, AC/heat, deck, furniture, grill |
| ⛺ Tent/Trailer/RV Sites | 106 | Electric hookups, some seasonal |
| 👥 Pioneer Campground | 1 | Group camping (call for capacity) |
| 🛶 Paddle-In Primitive | 1 | Sleeps 25, accessible by water only |
| 🏛️ Group Shelter | 1 | Seats 125 |
| 🏕️ Picnic Shelters | 5 | Day use gatherings |
Fishing
High Falls Lake is recognized as one of Georgia’s top fishing spots and among America’s best family fishing destinations.
| Fish Species | Season |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Hybrid Bass | Year-round (best spring/fall) |
| 🐟 White Bass | Year-round |
| 🐟 Largemouth Bass | Year-round |
| 🐟 Catfish | Best in summer |
| 🐟 Crappie | Spring spawning run |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎣 Fishing | 650-acre lake, 2 boat ramps, fishing docks |
| ⛵ Boating | Boat rental available, 2 ramps |
| 🛶 Paddling | Kayak/canoe rentals available |
| 🥾 Hiking | Trails along river and through forest |
| 🏛️ Historic Ruins | 1800s town ruins and power plant foundation |
| 💒 Weddings | Available with park approval |
| 📍 Geocaching | Multiple caches in park |
| ⚡ EV Charging | Electric vehicle charger available |
Historic Ghost Town
In the early 1800s, High Falls was a prosperous industrial town with:
- 🏭 Hydroelectric power plant
- 🌾 Grist mill
- 🧵 Cotton gin
- 🔨 Blacksmith shop
- 👞 Shoe factory
- 🏨 Hotel and stores
When a major railroad bypassed High Falls in the 1880s, the town fell from prosperity. Today, visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins via hiking trails, discovering foundation stones and artifacts slowly being reclaimed by the forest.
Yurt Features
High Falls’ 6 lakeside yurts offer a unique glamping experience:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Location | Lakeside setting |
| ❄️ Climate Control | Air conditioning and heat |
| 🛋️ Furnishings | Indoor furniture |
| 🔌 Electric | Outlets and ceiling fan |
| 🪵 Deck | Small outdoor deck |
| 🍖 Cooking | Picnic table and grill outside |
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the waterfall at High Falls?
High Falls features the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta. The Towaliga River tumbles over ancient rocks in a dramatic series of cascades. The falls are especially impressive after rainfall and during spring when water levels are highest.
Is High Falls Lake good for fishing?
Excellent! The 650-acre High Falls Lake is recognized as one of Georgia’s top fishing spots and among America’s best family fishing destinations. It’s particularly famous for hybrid and white bass. The park offers boat rentals, two boat ramps, and fishing docks.
What are the yurts like at High Falls?
High Falls offers 6 lakeside yurts that combine camping with comfort. Each yurt features air conditioning and heat, indoor furniture, electrical outlets, a ceiling fan, and an outdoor deck with picnic table and grill. They’re like canvas-and-wood “glamping” tents with modern amenities.
What historic ruins can you see at High Falls?
Hiking trails lead to the ruins of a 1800s industrial town that once thrived here. You can explore the foundation of a hydroelectric power plant and remnants of the grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory, and hotel. The town declined after the railroad bypassed it in the 1880s.
Can you rent boats at High Falls State Park?
Yes! High Falls offers boat and paddling rentals. The park has two boat ramps and fishing docks for easy lake access. Kayak and canoe rentals are also available for exploring the scenic 650-acre lake.
Is there primitive camping at High Falls?
Yes! High Falls offers a unique paddle-in primitive campsite that sleeps up to 25 people—accessible only by water for a true backcountry experience. The park also has a Pioneer Campground for group camping.
Discover Georgia’s Hidden Gem
The tallest waterfall south of Atlanta, world-class bass fishing, ghost town ruins, and lakeside yurts—all just off I-75. Book your High Falls adventure today!
