McIntosh Reserve

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McIntosh Reserve lies along the Chattahoochee River.

McIntosh Reserve is an outdoor recreation area located in Carroll County, Georgia. The 527-acre (2.13 km²) park is operated by the Carroll County Recreation Department and supports outdoor activities including camping, hiking, fishing, and others. The park is open year-round, closing only on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.^[1]

1 History
2 Activities and Events
3 References
4 External Links

[edit] History

McIntosh Reserve is named for William McIntosh, Jr., a prominent Creek Indian leader and plantation owner. The plantation was known as Lochau Talofau, which in English means "Acorn Bluff." McIntosh lived in a modest home, a two-story log house with a central, open "dog run" passage on both floors. The house doubled as an inn for travelers. A reconstructed house is open to park visitors today.^[2].

In 1825, McIntosh signed the second Treaty of Indian Springs. The treaty essentially sold all Creek lands to the government; however, McIntosh was allowed to keep his plantation in exchange for signing the treaty. Many Creek Indians were infuriated by the treaty and murdered McIntosh. Carroll County acquired Lochau Talofau in 1978; the plantation now lies within McIntosh Reserve boundaries.^[1]

William McIntosh's single-plot, military grave may be found just across the road from the reconstructed house.^[2]

[edit] Activities and Events

McIntosh Reserve features over 14 miles (23 km) of trails which may be traveled on foot or via bicycle or horseback. A large, flat grassy area is frequently used by model airplane hobbyists or groups seeking an open gathering place. The park also maintains several primitive campsites.

The park features two ponds and lies along the Chattahoochee River. Fishing is allowed in the park; the nearby town of Whitesburg, Georgia provides access to the river for rafting and canoeing.

Annual events such as the Easter Festival, Halloween Carnival, and Santa Program draw visitors to the park. An annual Fall Festival features a "Native American Pow-Wow," a traditional Native American music and dance performance. The Chattahoochee Challenge Car Show and various club-, hobby-, or scouting-related events also take place in the park.^[1]