Visiting Rolater Park In Cave Spring, Georgia

I’ve been working on a fun project that I’ve briefly mentioned on the blog as Project R. And today Cj and I made a quick trip to Rolater Park in Cave Spring, Georgia to get some content that I need for that project. While I’m not going to share the project just yet we will be making trips to places to gather information. And I want to take you guys on the adventure with me. So let’s dive in.

Rolater Park is a gorgeous park located in Northwest Georgia. It’s a great spot to spend a sunny spring day. There is a spring fed lake with a walking trail around it and plenty of spots to stop and read. The main attraction of the park is the cave that the park, and the town, was built around. Many people travel here just to get some of the spring water to take home. And I have to say there is just something special about the crisp, cold water that comes out of the limestone hills.

The Cave

One of the many attractions of the park is the cave itself. It only opens during the summer months but it’s worth the visit. The chilly air is a refreshing break from the humidity of summer in Georgia. It’s also a really interesting natural landmark. The cave itself has been there for years the town just built the entrance to make it accesible for everyone. It’s really a magical place.

The Olde Baptist Church

The Olde Baptist Church is in the park right beside the lake. The congregation was established in 1836 and they built this building in 1851. It’s a simple Greek Revival style structure that was popular in the South, but in it’s simplicity there is beauty. In 1931 the church sold the property to the community park. The congregation still meets today in their new location across the street from the park.

This church will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s where Cj and I got married in 2019.

The Hearn Academy

The Hearn Academy was established in 1903. The original structure burned in and was replaced by the current building in 1910. It would serve as a K-12 school until 1925 when the rise of state funded public schools limited their services.

The Hearn Academy can be rented out for private events. That’s where we hosted our wedding reception and I can say the inside is just as striking as the outside.

The Hearn Inn

The Hearn Inn was originally founded as a dormitory for the Hearn Academy. But today it serves as an inn for out of town guests. It’s a gorgeous historical structure that is conveniently located for hikers and bikers that want to explore the natural beauty of Georgia.

The Park

Lastly, we have the park. The focal point of the park is the spring fed lake that’s full of wildlife. You can buy food for the geese and fish in the cave and at some of the local businesses around town.

There’s a walking path that goes all the way around the lake. There’s also a few streams where you’ll find kids wading in the water any day of the week. But take it from me that water is COLD. And while you can’t swim in the lake they do have a spring fed city pool that opens from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

So if you’re ever in Northwest Georgia I hope you’ll take the time to experience the magic of this small town park. And while you’re there be sure to check out the eclectic shops downtown. Plus, stop at Linde Marie’s for one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed by your trip to Cave Spring, Georgia. And if you time it right they might be hosting one of their festivals. My personal favorite is the Barbecue Festival. It’s worth the trip I promise.

If you want to know more about Cave Spring check out the Cave Spring Historical Society.