Towns County, Georgia
Towns County is nestled in the North Georgia mountains and is home to just over 10,000 residents. Hiawassee, the county seat, sits along the shores of Lake Chatuge, a scenic reservoir that attracts visitors year-round for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
The Appalachian Trail passes through the county’s northern mountains, making Towns County a favorite destination for hiking and outdoor adventure. Autumn brings spectacular fall foliage, while the higher elevations offer breathtaking views throughout the year.
Young Harris College adds a vibrant academic presence to the county, and the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds host concerts, festivals, craft shows, and other events in every season. Towns County also celebrates its Appalachian traditions, including a rich moonshining heritage that remains an important part of its local culture.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Towns County |
| County Seat | Hiawassee |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Hiawassee (county seat), Young Harris, Lake Burton, and other small communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Route 76, U.S. Route 17 |
| Etymology | Named after George Washington Towns, a governor of Georgia during the antebellum period |
| FIPS Code | 13-281 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 286 square miles (land: 270 sq mi, water: 16 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Georgia |
| Coordinates | 34.8697° N, 83.7190° W |
| Major Landmarks | Lake Chatuge, Chatuge Regional Hospital, Tallulah Gorge State Park |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Clay County, North Carolina (North), Rabun County (East), Habersham County (Southeast), White County (South), Union County (West) |
| Population | Approximately 12,000 |
