Clarkesville, Georgia was incorporated in 1823 and named in honor of General John C. Clark. It began, and became well known, as a summer retreat town for those living in the hot and humid low-lying coastal regions of Georgia.
Today, visitors will discover a small, simple town. This is the kind of place to go when you honestly want to escape it all and relax. The downtown region boasts forty structures listed on the National Historic Register. Wooden storefronts house typical downtown business such as a coffee shop, bakery, bookstore, antique store, and caf‚. A self-guided walking of this historic area is enchanting.
Nearby Moccasin Creek State Park is nestled along the shores of a nearly 3,000-acre lake, Lake Burton. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, and is the perfect place for casual bicycling. Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and Lodge is an absolutely beautiful place to spend an afternoon. One of the most popular activities here is fishing for trout in Dukes Creek, but there are plenty of opportunities for bicycling and hiking too. Guided tours of this magnificent area are offered daily, and lodging is available.
Clarkesville is located in the northeast part of the state. From Interstate 85, take Highway 441 into the city.
