There aren’t many places where you can take a dip in the water right by historic ruins, but that’s just what you can do at one of our favorite swimming holes in Georgia! The Marietta Paper Mill was once a thriving industrial paper mill, but now all that you’ll find here is stone ruins. It’s located right on Sope Creek and it’s a fantastic spot to cool off on a hot day in Marietta.
The Marietta Paper Mill opened in 1855. Paper was manufactured from old cloth rags and linens using the water from nearby Sope Creek.
Eric Vinton/Google Maps The mill provided writing paper, printing paper, and wrapping paper for much of the southeast for years. There were even rumors it printed money for the Confederacy during the Civil War. These rumors were never proven, but led to its destruction. The mill was burned by Union troops in 1865. It was rebuilt shortly after the war and again found some success before it was destroyed in a fire in 1870. It was rebuilt yet again, but struggled financially and was closed in 1902.
Time has destroyed much of the buildings that comprised the paper mill, but that doesn’t mean this spot isn’t worth visiting.
Josh Lundmark/Google Maps
The hike to get to the ruins is fairly short and easy, and there’s plenty of creek access.
Bill Bradshaw/Google Maps
There are plenty of places to dip your toes in the water and cool off a bit.
Michael New/Google Maps
Or, if it’s not too hot, just stretch out on the rocks and enjoy the sun!
Adam Graham/Google Maps
There are few swimming holes in Georgia that manage to combine natural beauty with history as well as this magical spot!
Adam Graham/Google Maps
Learn more about the history of the ruins from the National Park Service.
Eric Vinton/Google Maps
The mill provided writing paper, printing paper, and wrapping paper for much of the southeast for years. There were even rumors it printed money for the Confederacy during the Civil War. These rumors were never proven, but led to its destruction. The mill was burned by Union troops in 1865. It was rebuilt shortly after the war and again found some success before it was destroyed in a fire in 1870. It was rebuilt yet again, but struggled financially and was closed in 1902.
Josh Lundmark/Google Maps
Bill Bradshaw/Google Maps
Michael New/Google Maps
Adam Graham/Google Maps
Have you ever visited the swimming hole at Sope Creek near the Marietta Paper Mill ruins? Share your experiences in the comments!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Sope Creek Paper Mill Ruins, Paper Mill Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067, USA
