Come to Calhoun Falls

With campgrounds, a pristine lake, horse trails and many other outdoor attractions, Calhoun Falls is positioned to be a leading recreational destination.

A recent Independent Mail article highlighted a town’s profit potential from establishing an outdoor tourism industry. Unfortunately, the article wasn’t about Calhoun Falls, but about Oconee County, where they have recognized outdoor tourism’s potential payoff and its role in their economic future.

Oconee’s tourism has increased eight percent, supporting 450 jobs, since its leaders decided to pursue opportunities provided by the great outdoors. The article said every $1 invested in tourism generates $2.80.

Recently, Calhoun Falls volunteers such as Ken Tinsley and Buster Taylor created the family-oriented “Fall for the Falls,” an event promoting Calhoun Falls as the first choice for camping, fishing and hunting. The Chamber of Commerce has wisely hosted fundraising 5K’s at the state park. The campgrounds stay fulland the Campground Chili Cookoffs have been huge successes. Families like to have fun. Calhoun Falls can be their playground.

But we need a consolidated effort that includes everyone — elected officials, churches, schools, businesses and residents — to reach its potential.

I want to encourage everyone to stop thinking about Calhoun Falls as the town where the mill closed and to start thinking about it as the town where your family can have fun.

Looking for a record-setting bass? Come catch it. Like to sleep under the stars? Bring your tent. Photo bug? Take your camera to the walking trails.

While you’re here, please patronize our businesses. That’s a start.

Mindy Boggs Rogers, Calhoun Falls