Shaking Rock Park facts for kids

Shaking Rock Park is a cool place located in Oglethorpe County, Georgia, near the town of Lexington, Georgia. It's known for its interesting rocks and fun outdoor activities.

Welcome to Shaking Rock Park

Shaking Rock Park gets its name from a giant rock that used to "shake" when you pushed it. This park is a great spot for exploring nature and seeing unique rock formations. It's a popular place for families and even college students who enjoy climbing.

What Makes the Rock Shake?

The park's most famous feature was a huge boulder, weighing about 27 tons! This rock was perfectly balanced on another granite rock. You could move it with just your hand! Imagine pushing a rock as big as a truck and watching it gently sway.

Over time, weather and other natural events changed how the rock was balanced. It can no longer be moved by hand. Some people believe a big earthquake in 1886 might have made the rock shift. Even though it doesn't shake anymore, it's still an amazing sight to see.

A Look Back in Time

Long before settlers from Europe and America arrived, the area around Shaking Rock Park was a popular camping spot. Native American tribes like the Cherokee and Creek Indians used this land. They likely enjoyed the natural beauty and resources of the area, just as visitors do today.

Exploring the Park Today

Shaking Rock Park offers more than just its famous boulder. You can find many other large, unusually shaped granite rocks scattered around. The park also has a nice picnic area where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.

Nature lovers will enjoy the park's trails. These trails let you walk through the woods and see different types of trees. There's even an active beaver pond, where you might spot beavers building their homes!

In recent years, the park has become a popular spot for rock climbing. Students from the University of Georgia and other climbing fans come to test their skills on the park's boulders. It's a great place for adventure! You can find more details about climbing here: Shaking Rock Climbing.

How the Park Started

Shaking Rock Park was officially opened in 1968. The land for the park was a gift from the family of its former owner, Judge Hamilton McWhorter. His heirs, Mrs. Andrew Cobb Erwin, Mrs. Sallie McWhorter Hawken, and Mr. Thurmond McWhorter, donated the land to Oglethorpe County, Georgia. They did this after the Lexington Women's Club asked for the park to be created. Since the park opened, Mr. Bobby Maxwell has helped take care of it as its custodian.

Images for kids

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  The famous Shaking Rock

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  Welcome sign at the park entrance