High Falls State Park: Tips for Your Perfect Visit
See the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta at High Falls State Park. Learn more about the state park here.
High Falls State Park is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Georgia.
Located in Jackson, this 1,050-acre park is an outdoor paradise, full of cascading waterfalls, plenty of trails, and a large lake to explore. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a weekend at High Falls State Park is the perfect way to take a break from the hustle and bustle.
To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips to help you have a memorable trip to High Falls State Park.
High Falls State Park
High Falls State Park is named for its tumbling, cascading waterfall on the Towaliga River.
The 1,050 acre state park is known as one of Georgia’s top fishing spots for hybrid and white bass, and the park offers boat rentals, ramps, and fishing docks for easy access to its bountiful 650 acre lake.
This area was a prosperous industrial town in the early 1800s. It had several stores, a grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory, and hotel. But the town’s luck ran out in the 1880s when a major railroad bypassed it.
Located in Jackson, Georgia, High Falls State Park is only 36 miles from Macon and only 51 miles from Atlanta.
Dogs and pets are allowed at all Georgia State Parks as long as they’re leashed.
Parking at High Falls State Park costs $5. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The park’s office is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
High Falls
High Falls is a 135 foot cascading waterfall on the Towaliga River, the largest waterfall in middle Georgia.
At the base of the falls during the summer, you’ll find people taking a dip in the isolated pools formed by the river’s rocks. However, the park advises against this, requesting that you stay off the rocks to avoid serious injury.
High Falls State Park Facilities
If you’re looking to stay overnight at the park, they have 106 tent, trailer, and RV campsites, some of which are seasonal; 6 yurts; 1 pioneer campground; and 1 paddle-in primitive campsite that sleeps 25.
If you just want to picnic for the day, they offer 5 picnic shelters and 1 group shelter, as well as a river pavilion for campground guests.
There’s plenty of space for play at the park’s 2 playgrounds, miniature golf course, and swimming pool.
For those interested in watersports, the park has a 650 acre lake with 2 boat ramps, public boat docks, and camper-only boat docks.
High Falls State Park Hikes
High Falls State Parks has 4.5 miles of hiking trails to explore.
- The 2.5 mile Tranquil Trail loop explores a remote forest of the park.
- The 1.5 mile High Falls Trail double loop takes you along the shores of High Falls.
- The 0.5 mile Historic Trail lollipop loop takes you to the Old Powerhouse Overlook over the river and to the Old Mill Foundation.
Hiking Essentials
Come prepared for your hike by making sure you pack the essentials. Check out this must-have hiking gear before you set off on the trails:
More Things To Do at High Falls State Park
There are plenty more things to do at this state park to help you enjoy it to the fullest.
The park allows boating on High Falls Lake. You can bring your own boat, or you can rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and aquacycles. The lake is also a great spot for fishing for hybrid and white bass.
The park also offers geocaching.
You can even rent out park space for your wedding.
Things to Do Near High Falls State Park
After you day admiring the falls and fishing on the lake, explore these other activities near High Falls State Park.
- Spend an afternoon exploring Macon, Georgia
- Hike the trails at nearby Chattahoochee Bend State Park in Newnan, Georgia
Where to Stay Near High Falls State Park
- High Falls State Park Lodging: Tents, Trailer & RV Campsites, and Yurts
- Closest Hotel: High Falls Inn and Suites
- Top Hotel: Candlewood Suites Jackson
- Great Value: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jackson
- Unique Stay: Woodland Chalet with Hot Tub + Private Lake
High Falls State Park FAQ
Do you have to pay to get in High Falls State Park?
There is a small $5 parking fee for High Falls State Park. There is no fee if you walk or bike in.
How long of a hike is the High Falls Trail?
The High Falls Trail is a 1.5 mile double loop along the side of the largest waterfall south of Atlanta.
Are there bears in High Falls State Park?
Black bears are occasionally active in High Falls State Park.
Can you swim in High Falls?
The park advises against swimming in the rock pools at the base of High Falls, requesting that you stay off the rocks to avoid serious injury. However, many people do still swim here at their own risk.
Final Thoughts on Visiting High Falls State Park
High Falls State Park is the perfect destination for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
From the spectacular views of the 135-foot cascading High Falls to the great fishing opportunities on the 650-acre lake, a trip to High Falls State Park is the perfect summer getaway.
Whether you spend the day picnicking, swimming in the pool, or taking a leisurely hike, this park and its attractions have something for everyone.
With its close proximity to Atlanta, Macon, and other surrounding cities, High Falls State Park is the ideal spot for an easy daytrip or an extended camping trip.
Get out and explore the beauty that High Falls State Park has to offer.
More Georgia Tips
Explore more Georgia destinations with these top guides:
- 10 Best Spots for a Summer Vacation in Georgia
- 10 Incredible Spring Break Destinations in Georgia
- 1 Day in Macon, GA: Your Perfect Itinerary
- A Weekend in Macon: 2 Day Itinerary
- 5 Delicious Restaurants in Macon, GA
- Tips for Visiting Chattahoochee Bend State Park
- Georgia Hikes: Wild Turkey Trail
- Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, Georgia
Ready to visit Jackson, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in Jackson using Hotels.com.
- Get packing: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources.
Cheers!
Paige
Have you visited High Falls State Park in Jackson, Georgia? You can let me know all about your visit in the comment section below!