Clay County
Clay County is settled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a population of 8,775 people. It is ideally located within two hours of Asheville, NC, Greenville, SC, Atlanta, GA, and Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN. Named in honor of Henry Clay, the famous statesman, and US Senator from Kentucky, Clay County offers visitors a hometown atmosphere and a number of activities to enjoy.
Hikers, boaters, and fishers will enjoy nearby Lake Chatuge, which is actually a reservoir that has a more than 130 miles of shoreline. Others may enjoy shopping around the community or browsing the local farmer’s markets in Brasstown or Hayesville. These are just a few activities Clay County has to offer.
Close tab (no content)
Clay Active Living
Natural Amenities
Lake Chatuga
Explore this beautiful lake located on the Hiwassee River. Enjoy the area while either fishing, swimming, boating, or camping.
Highway 64 or Highway 69
Hayesville, NC 28904
Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area
This campsite is located on Lake Chatuge and offers amenities such as a swimming beach, accessible showers and toilets, hiking trails, and launching ramps for boating and other water activities. Learn more.
Jack Rabbit Road off Highway 175
Hayesville, NC 28904
Fires Creek Recreation Area
This area is perfect for camping, trout fishing, or even horseback riding. It also features a number of hiking trails. Fires Creek Rim Trail is 25 miles long and follows the ridge around the Wildlife Management Area. Other trails in Fires Creek include Chunky Gal and Bald Springs. Learn more.
FS Rd 1344
Hayesville, NC 28904
Park and Recreation
Clay County Recreation Park
Located on Lake Chatuge, this park offers walking trails, picnic pavillions, ball fields and more.
Myers Chapel Road
Hayesville, NC 28904
Private Facilites
Stardance Performing Arts
Dance studio offering jazz, tap, ballet, acrobatics, and more.
1124 Hwy 69 S.
Hayesville, NC 28904
828.389.3089
Brasstown Community Civic Center
This center is used for concerts, meetings, social events, and more. It offers a large gym with basketball goals and a walking trail and playground behind the building.
255 Settawig Rd.
Brasstown, NC 28902
828.837.3797
Clay Healthy Eating
Farmers Markets
Brasstown Farmer’s Market
Help support local farms and enjoy some fresh foods and community togetherness every Wednesday from 9 am to 1 pm every Wednesday, May through December.
10956 Old Hwy 64
Brasstown, NC 28902
Mountain Valley Farmer’s Market
From arts and crafts to baked goods and produce, there is something for everyone Mountain Valley Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 8 am to 12pm, May through October.
On the Square
Hayesville, NC 28904
Evening Harvest Market
Have some fun at this town event featuring local fresh produce and homemade products. This event is rain or shine, every Thursday from 4 pm to 8 pm, May 22nd through September 25th.
On the Square
Hayesville, NC 28904
Healthy Corner Stores
Warne Kwik Stop
The first and only healthy corner store in Clay County, Warne Kwik Stop, was recently awarded merchandise and shelving that according to the owner Tony Lyvers, will allow him to carry a larger variety of fresh produce, and it will be in a location that will serve the public better. Congratulations to Warne Kwik Stop!.
4660 Old Highway 64 W
Warne, NC 28909
828.389.3969
Local Food Providers
The Corner Butcher Shop
This shop offers fresh local produce and meat. Selections include free range, organic chicken and grass-fed beef.
893 Highway 64 Business
Hayesville, NC 28904
828.389.3415
Clay Tobacco-Free Living
Success Story
Smoke-Free at the Evening Harvest Market
The Hayesville Evening Market made local history by becoming the first outdoor market in WNC to host a smoke-free environment for vendors and clients alike. With the support of MountainWise, the Clay County Health Department and community members, the market opened it’s doors in 2013 with smoke-free air. Located in the beautiful Hayesville Square, the Evening Harvest Market is now a prime model for a walkable, breathable, local food experience.