Walker Rocks invites all to ‘come play’

LaFAYETTE — The Walker County Chamber of Commerce and county government are launching a joint initiative to promote Walker County’s many and varied recreational offerings to a broad market.

Lacey Wilson, head of the local chamber of commerce, described “Walker Rocks” as a way to highlight natural resources throughout the county that are attracting exercise enthusiasts who are ready and willing to pursue their passion in Walker County.

Speaking to the Walker County Development Authority board at its June 12 meeting, Wilson highlighted the area’s unique mix of outdoor offerings.

The area offers caves to explore, trails and roads to cycle and mountains for climbing or hiking. There are waterways and lakes to fish, kayak, canoe or paddleboard. And to top it off, the possibilities range from mild to wild — from family outings where participants will barely break a sweat to extreme adventure athletes looking for excitement beyond category — Walker County has it all.

Commissioner Shannon Whitfield has noted that tourism is one of the fastest growing businesses in Georgia. This partnership with the chamber to focus on attracting outdoor enthusiasts to visit the natural wonders of Walker County can reap large financial rewards without requiring major investments.

Figures from the commissioner’s office show the tourism industry supported 640 jobs in Walker County in 2016 and generated more than $63 million in direct tourist spending. Since then, the county has grown to become a destination for people seeking outdoor adventures and officials are certain there is plenty of room to grow.