The Skull Shoals trail connects the Recreation Area with Skull Shoals Historic District. Readers of this page may be most interested in the easy, 1 mile walk along the Oconee River. However, in 1811 this was the site of Georgia's first paper mill, and 1840s ruins are still visible. Historical info.
From Skull Shoals, the short, easy Boarding House trail takes you 0.2 miles through piney woods from the factory ruins to the ruins of a house with two chimneys.
Note: Like all National Forests, hiking and camping are allowed anywhere except where specifically prohibited. However, many parcels of land in the area are not part of the National Forest. Please respect the private landowners' rights.
Caution: Hunting is also allowed anywhere in the National Forest, except where specifically prohibited. We recommend you stay away from active hunting areas, unless you are familiar with the hazards and appropriate precautions. Hunting is prohibited in certain popular recreation areas. Also, the whole National Forest is free of hunting certain parts of the year. Contact the ranger station for details.