When you hear the term “ghost town” you might picture a place where spirits reside and you can practically see their translucent bodies floating in and out of post offices and grocery stores. Alas, such is not the case. The term ghost town refers to an abandoned city or town that perhaps has a few remaining inhabitants, but is otherwise deserted. There are quite a few ghost towns in the Peach State that still remain, many of which hold a rich history. One that is still around for guests to visit is none other than Scull Shoals in Georgia. Ready for the ultimate fall adventure?

Deep in the heart of the Oconee National Forest in Greene County is the historic Scull Shoals Mill Village.

AllTrails Ray Spencer

This area was once a frontier village back in the late 1700s and eventually became a town, filled with homes, stores, gristmills, sawmills, and Georgia’s first paper mill.

AllTrails Connor Shepard

However, after devastating floods in the area in the 1880s, the mills were destroyed and by the 1920s the entire town was abandoned, leaving behind building remains and not much more.

TripAdvisor Simon R

Today, only the remains of a few buildings are left, like the brick warehouse and store, plus stone foundations from the old mill’s power plant.

AllTrails Connor Shepard

While the old trail which once led a few miles to the ghost town is closed and overgrown, visitors can still explore the Scull Shoals Historic Site.

AllTrails Autumn Rose

In addition, the campground within the forest is still open and you can enjoy a picnic overlooking the river.

TripAdvisor Simon R

Visitors should be able to see some of the ruins of the historic ghost town from the parking lot, but the trail is overgrown and no longer on the most current Forest Service maps.

TripAdvisor Simon R

Spend the day learning about the history of this ghost town in Georgia, and what was once a flourishing mill town centuries ago.

AllTrails Mary Catherine D’Arcy

Have you ever been to Scull Shoals in Georgia before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this ghost town in Georgia, then check out the Forest Service USDA website.

AllTrails Ray Spencer

AllTrails Connor Shepard

TripAdvisor Simon R

AllTrails Autumn Rose

AllTrails Mary Catherine D’Arcy

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Address: Scull Shoals Archeological Area, Georgia 30677, USA