Community Spotlight: Habersham County

Small Towns Nestled in the Nature of Habersham County Habersham County is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northeast Georgia. From it’s early days founding in 1818 boasts a rich history Named after Colonel Joseph Habersham, a Revolutionary War hero and former Postmaster General of the United States. From its early days as a frontier settlement to its emergence as a thriving agricultural hub, Habersham County offers a welcoming hospitality as it continues to grow. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and waterways of the Soque, Tugaloo & Tallulah River Habersham County offers ample opportunities for outdoor ad-venture. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest, home to scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Cornelia is known as the “Gateway to the Mountains,” and owes much of its early growth and prosperity to the railroad industry. The town’s historic downtown district still retains its vintage charm, with beautifully restored buildings and has entertainment, shopping, and a variety of dining with live music on weekends. The “Big Red Apple” stands near the restored train depot and pays homage to Cornelia’s agricultural roots. The museum in the Depot is open to the public for Free to learn more about the Tallulah Railway. Visitors won’t want to miss the Annual Fall celebration in September for the Big Red Apple Festival that has arts, crafts, live music, and great food! In summer kids of all ages enjoy the Cornelia Splash Pad that is open from May – October and is great for family gatherings. The Cornelia City Park offers a serene retreat with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families to enjoy. The Community Center located in the park was built in 1936 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Just 5 miles from the park, visitors can see magnificent views from Chenocetah Mountain overlooking Lake Russell from an elevation of 1,830 feet. The Chenocetah Fire Tower, is the last rock-constructed, working fire lookout tower in the east and stands 40 feet high. From this viewpoint, nature abounds with birds that soar above the countryside. Mt. Airy is the home to Lake Russell Recreational Area that is a great spot for swimming, camping, biking, fishing and boating. Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of ways to connect with nature in this idyllic setting. Hiking trails are available year-round and a 4.6 mile loop goes around the shores of this beautiful 100-acre lake. Lake Russell has a large grass-covered beach and makes a great picnicking area for the day. One of the primary draws of Lake Russell is its exceptional fishing opportunities. Anglers flock to its waters year-round in pursuit of prized catches such as largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and striped bass. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, as the lake’s diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of avian species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and herons. For overnight stays, Lake Russell offers a range of camping options, from primitive tent sites to [...]