Cave Spring, Georgia, a small town with approximately 1,000 residents, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and local charm. Located just 1.5 hours from Atlanta and a few miles from the Alabama state line, this hidden gem is gaining recognition as an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway, especially during the autumn months.
The town is centered around a prolific limestone spring, which produces an impressive 2 million gallons of fresh water daily. This natural wonder not only serves as the town's primary drinking water source but also provides a focal point for many of its outdoor activities and attractions.
Key Takeaways
- Cave Spring, Georgia, is a historic small town offering natural springs, a cave, and lake activities.
- It is a 1.5-hour drive from Atlanta, making it an accessible day trip or weekend escape.
- The town features annual fall events like the Halloween Coffin Races and a vibrant parade.
- Historical sites include the Vann Cherokee Cabin, part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.
- Local dining ranges from casual barbecue to upscale steakhouses.
Exploring Cave Spring's Natural Wonders and History
Visitors often begin their journey at the Cave Spring Welcome Center and Museum. This historic home provides essential maps and information, covering everything from the area's Indigenous inhabitants to the Georgia School for the Deaf, which is also located in town.
The namesake cave is a highlight. Georgia is home to over 800 caves, with many concentrated in the northeastern region. Cave Spring's cavern, part of Rolater Park and the Pinhoti Trail, is accessible for a small fee of $2 per person. Inside, the temperature consistently hovers around 57 degrees Fahrenheit, offering a cool respite year-round.
Quick Fact
The spring in Cave Spring produces 2 million gallons of water per day, providing the town's drinking water.
Adjacent to the cave, Rolater Lake invites visitors to take a refreshing swim for $5. The Pinhoti Trail, which extends through the park, provides a pleasant walking path and connects to the much larger Appalachian Trail, offering longer hiking opportunities for avid trekkers.
A Glimpse into Cherokee History
Just a minute away on Cave Spring Road, the Vann Cherokee Cabin stands as one of Georgia's oldest structures of its kind. Built in 1810 by Avery Vann of the Cherokee Nation, this hand-hewn log cabin is a significant stop on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. It offers a poignant connection to the region's rich Indigenous past.
"I am not originally from Cave Spring, but I fell in love with my husband, Cleve, and the charm of the downtown square the first time I visited," says local Emilia Jackson, who runs Buttermilk Blooms, a "U-Pick" and cut flowers farm with her husband. "I love that I can park and walk around town to take our little girls to Rolater Park to play at the playground and spring-fed creek, make a stop at the local library, and grab an ice cream at Spring Brew Coffee Co."
Downtown Charm and Unique Events
Downtown Cave Spring boasts a selection of charming shops. Stores like Antiques on the Square, Evergreen on Broad, Peddler, and Cave Spring General Store offer locally made goods and vintage decor. These shops provide a leisurely browsing experience for those seeking unique souvenirs or gifts.
Seasonal Appeal
Emilia Jackson highlights the town's special appeal during autumn. The changing leaves and crisp air create a picturesque backdrop for events like the Halloween Coffin Races, an annual costume contest, and a lively Halloween Parade through downtown.
For enthusiasts of vintage finds, the annual Highway 411 Yard Sale is a notable event. Small towns along the route between Leeds, Alabama, and Newport, Tennessee, including Cave Spring, set up tables filled with antiques and secondhand treasures along the roadside, drawing crowds from across the region.
For those looking to stay active, the Silver Comet Trail is just a 15-minute drive away in Cedartown, Georgia. This 61.5-mile pedestrian and bicycle path connects Georgia and Alabama, providing an excellent opportunity for cycling or a long walk amidst scenic surroundings.
Dining in Cave Spring: Local Flavors and Southern Comfort
Cave Spring offers a variety of dining options, catering to different tastes and preferences. For a morning pick-me-up, Spring Brew Coffee Co. serves seasonally themed lattes and ice cream, perfect for starting the day.
Local Joe’s at Cave Spring provides a casual lunch experience with Georgia-style barbecue and sides. Their Brunswick Stew, a regional specialty said to have originated on the coast, is a popular choice among visitors and locals alike. Stage Coach Pizza Co. offers classic pies in a historic setting with a saloon-like ambiance.
A&B Creekside Restaurant and Catering is known for its outdoor dining with prime creek views. This spot specializes in burgers and ribeye steaks, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Southern Flavor is a local favorite, recognized for its all-you-can-eat catfish and comforting dishes such as fried squash and macaroni and cheese.
Culinary Gem
Linde Marie's Steakhouse on the Square is a significant dining destination, attracting diners from surrounding areas for its wide selection of steaks, including prime rib and sirloin.
"My favorite meal from Linde Marie's is the pecan-crusted chicken," Jackson notes, highlighting a local specialty.
Accommodation Options Near Cave Spring
Due to its small size, Cave Spring has limited accommodations, primarily offering short-term rentals. The Hearn Inn is a unique option, formerly a girls' dormitory for the Georgia School for the Deaf, now available for rent as individual rooms or the entire house.
For those who prefer camping, Cedar Creek Park provides campsites for RVs and tents starting at $20 per night. The park also offers kayak, river tube, and canoe rentals for water activities.
More extensive accommodation options can be found in Rome, Georgia, approximately 15 miles away. This includes national brand hotels like the Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Rome. This hotel is housed in a renovated 1890s warehouse, retaining many original features, and is conveniently located near the Oostanaula River and several local restaurants.
- Hearn Inn: Historic lodging, former dormitory.
- Cedar Creek Park: RV and tent camping from $20/night, watercraft rentals.
- Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Rome: Located 15 miles away in a historic warehouse.
