Clayton, GA

Travel Guide

A storefront with American flags, a sign for an outdoor sale, and a closed sign.
A rustic log cabin surrounded by dense forest and a gravel path.
A white church with a steeple and a cross on top, located at N Johnson Ave.
A street with parked cars, a brick building with a sign for 'Crawford Art Gallery', and a mountain in the background.
A street with various shops including a restaurant and sports bar named 'CLARKS MAIN'.
Vacation in a mountain town known for its pioneer heritage, winemaking, forests, waterfalls, and a long and deep, rocky gorge.

Enjoy gorgeous views, fresh mountain air, outdoor pursuits and scenic surroundings when you visit Clayton. This small attractive town in Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains boasts expansive state parks, vineyards and historical buildings.

Take advantage of the beautiful scenery that surrounds Clayton. Explore waterfalls, streams and forests on trails that pass throughBlack Rock Mountain State Park. VisitTallulah Gorge State Parkand hike to the bottom of the gorge floor, which is nearly 1,000 feet (305 meters) deep in places. Look down into the Tallulah River from the suspension bridge that hangs 80 feet (24 meters) above the roaring water. Go swimming inLake Burtonand try whitewater rafting on theChattooga River. Fish atAndy's Trout Farm at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains.

The landscapes in and around Clayton give rise to vineyards, which produce an abundance of wines. Join a wine tasting adventure at12 Spies Vineyards,Tiger Mountain VineyardsandStonewall Creek Vineyards. Sip artisan-crafted whiskey and vodka atMoonrise Distillery.

Familiarize yourself with the town by taking the self-guided Historic Clayton Walking Tour. The route encompasses 18 historic buildings, including a gas station built by former professional basketball players in 1928. Browse clothing, home decor, accessory shops and many more on a downtown shopping expedition.

Drive lessthan 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) north of Clayton to theFoxfire Museum and Heritage Centerfor a window into the pioneer culture of the Southern Appalachians. Visit authentic pioneer cabins, view artifacts such as tools and furniture and learn about the lives of people who lived in the wilderness nearly 200 years ago.

Clayton lies 76 miles (122 kilometers) from Athens and 107 miles (172 kilometers) from Atlanta, the state capital. Come for a daytrip, long weekend or extended vacation and enjoy the impressive scenery, outdoor adventures and fascinating history.

Where to stay in Clayton

Find the best Clayton areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Clayton
Learn more about Clayton

Screamer Mountain

While there might not be top attractions in Screamer Mountain, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Main Street Gallery and Kingwood Resort Golf.

Kingwood Resort

Kingwood Resort

3 out of 5
401 Country Club Drive Clayton GA
$131 nightly
The price is $157 total per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
$157 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Clayton. Enjoy an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and a golf course. Popular attractions Kingwood Resort Golf and Main Street ...
Kingwood Resort
Mountain Aire Cottages, Inn & Glamping

Mountain Aire Cottages, Inn & Glamping

2 out of 5
18 Motel Dr Clayton GA
$130 nightly
The price is $156 total per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
$156 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Clayton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Main Street Gallery and Black Rock Mountain State Park are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (66 reviews)
"You could not ask for better accommodations a more comfortable room or a more pleasant stay you owe it to yourself to make your next stay in the Clayton area at this motel you will do yourself a disservice if you stay anywhere else"

Reviewed on Sep 7, 2026

Mountain Aire Cottages, Inn & Glamping
Alpine Valley Inn

Alpine Valley Inn

2 out of 5
749 Brucken Strasse Helen GA
$51 nightly
The price is $64 total per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
$64 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Helen. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,178 reviews)
"My husband and I really enjoyed our first stay at Alpine Valley Inn! Check-in was easy, the bed was super comfortable, the AC kept us nice and cool, and the property was peaceful and quiet. Parking was convenient, and we loved being within walking distance of Helen. The complimentary breakfast was ..."

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2026

Alpine Valley Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Tiny House in the Mountains- waterfall, jacuzzi and stunning farm views

Tiny House in the Mountains- waterfall, jacuzzi and stunning farm views

Clayton GA
Stay at this vacation home in Clayton. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Lake Burton and Stonewall Creek Vineyards ...
10/10 Exceptional! (121 reviews)
"Lovely area. Nice place to escape to. The tiny house was as described. Not fancy, but clean and comfortable. Host was responsive. No kitchen, but there was a small fridge/freezer and a microwave, so we were able to eat our own food for breakfast and lunch. The creek next to the house was healthy. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2026

Tiny House in the Mountains- waterfall, jacuzzi and stunning farm views
Alpine Crest Resort

Alpine Crest Resort

2 out of 5
273 Carrie Cox Dr Helen GA
Stay at this aparthotel in Helen. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a picnic area. Popular attractions Helen Tubing & Helen Water Park and Unicoi Hill Park ...
7.8/10 Good! (186 reviews)
"A little updating is needed; painting would go along way. Beds were ok but pillows were hard and flat. Extensive ant infestation on pool deck. Staff was very nice."

Reviewed on Sep 13, 2026

Alpine Crest Resort
Fairway Forest by Coolvacay

Fairway Forest by Coolvacay

3.5 out of 5
70 Sapphire Valley Road Sapphire NC
Book a stay at this golf condo in Sapphire. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, hot springs on site, and a sauna. Popular attractions Sapphire Valley Ski Resort and Sapphire ...
Fairway Forest by Coolvacay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Clayton attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Clayton worth visiting?
Clayton is worth visiting for its golf courses, including Kingwood Resort Golf and Rabun County Golf Club. Travelers can also enjoy a variety of dining options, with North American and Italian cuisine available, offering classic dishes like pasta and burgers.
When is the best time to visit Clayton?
The best time to visit Clayton is from June through August, when the destination is most popular. For fewer crowds and potentially better value on accommodations, the quieter months of November through January are a good option for travelers.
What is Clayton known for?
Clayton is known for its prominent golf destinations, including Kingwood Resort Golf and Rabun County Golf Club. Travelers can also visit the Main Street Gallery, offering local art and culture. The area also features a welcoming North American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Clayton?
A good itinerary length for Clayton is two to three days to enjoy activities like rafting on the Chattooga River or visiting the Main Street Gallery. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to also experience the Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting, play golf at Kingwood Resort Golf, and explore local dining. See Clayton Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Clayton?
Clayton offers outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and unique local experiences for travelers:

  • Hike the Bartram Trail, followed by a wine tasting.
  • Go rafting on the Chattooga River.
  • Visit the Foxfire Museum for local history and culture.
  • Explore the Coleman River Wildlife Management Area.
  • Take a Jeep Tour in the Chattooga River area with a guide.

How do I plan a trip to Clayton?
Plan your Clayton trip by booking flights, rental cars, and places to stay on Expedia in advance. Secure popular activities like Chattooga River rafting or a Bartram Trail hike. For outdoor plans, always have indoor backups, such as visiting Main Street Gallery, to ensure weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Clayton?
In Clayton you can find New American cuisine, featuring dishes like gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, and modern comfort food. Travelers can also enjoy Southern soul food, Italian classics such as pasta and pizza, and Latin American options including tacos and other Mexican fare. Asian and Mediterranean dishes are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Clayton?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Clayton by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Clayton with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Clayton trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Clayton?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Clayton can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Clayton trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Clayton trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Clayton trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Clayton trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Clayton?
If it's your first trip to Clayton, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Clayton hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Clayton hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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