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Located in northwest Georgia, Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful primitive area with no developed facilities. Pigeon Mountain, named for the now-extinct passenger pigeons that once lived here, is an unusual wild area of exceptional value to naturalists, scientists and many types of recreationalists.
The wildlife management area was also named for Jack Crockford, a pioneering Georgia biologist. The unit contains more than 16,000 acres. The area is also one of Georgia's most popular hunting areas. Deer hunting in the fall and wild turkey hunting in the spring are the most popular. Small game hunters also find opportunity here. Anglers find limited fishing opportunities with one remote small trout stream and, for kids under 16 only, a few year-round lakes.
Most of the 40-plus miles of trails are shared by hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Scenic vistas abound from the cliff side trails at many points on the area. The Rocktown trail is open to foot travel only and leads one mile to over 100 acres of shaped rocks and crevices. Rock climbers frequent the site and many climbs of all levels exist.
The Pocket, a secluded cove surrounded by steep rock walls is home to many native wildflowers and plant species. The 800-foot long boardwalk allows wheelchair access. In the wet season a waterfall cascades out of the valley.
Other activities include rock climbing, birdwatching and butterfly study. Hang gliders and para-sails soar from the hood overlook when the wind is favorable. There are numerous caves on the area that range from easy to extreme as far as exploration. Cave location information is not provided to visitors for safety and conservation reasons. Persons entering the caves are required to register at a kiosk near the caves.
The nearest developed campground offering hookups is located at nearby Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Access to the area is via Georgia Higway 193, west of Lafayette Georgia. Proceed 2.5 miles to Chamberlain Road; turn left, and go three miles to the gravel surffaced Rocky Lane on the right. (If you get to the church on the paved road, you've missed the turn.) Go a half mile to the check station on the left.
Outdoor Activities |
