Clay County, with it's beautiful mountains, rambling farmlands, peaceful mountain streams and Lake Chatuge really has allot to offer. Although quaint in appearance, there are many cultural, business, recreational, and civic or religious organizations that keep its residents active in the community. In Clay County many of the old traditions are still observed, therefore don't leave your manners at home when you come to visit us. In many areas of the nation, seldom will you see a string of traffic pulled over on the roadside in a show of respect as a funeral procession passes by. You will see that here.

View map of area!

With a population nearing 8,000, it's very common to drive through the county and receive a friendly wave, whether you are stranger or friend. Although relatively small in population, the business base in Clay County is diverse and one can find just about anything one needs. For example, we have clothing boutiques, drug stores, hardware stores, country mercantile shops, hair salons, health food store, variety store, supermarket, convenience stores, auto repair and supplies, restaurants, sporting goods, business supplies, arts and crafts supplies, computer services, you name it, we've probably got it.

If we don't have it there are major markets that surround Clay County on either side. Atlanta and Asheville are within a two-hour drive, so is Chattanooga, Tenn. So while one enjoys the serenity of a small town, the city is just a short trip away.

Clay County, situated on the western tip of North Carolina with our nearest neighbor being Towns County, Ga., home of Georgia Mountain Fair. We share beautiful Lake Chatuge with that county. Clay County was named in honor of the great Kentucky statesman, Henry Clay, who died in 1853 after a long and prosperous career in government. Clay County was founded February 20, 1861 after ties were severed with parts of Macon and Cherokee counties to form an independent county.

Folks who grew up here will tell you Clay County is one of the most wonderful places on the face of the earth. Why? The scenery is all beautiful, but our people are our best resource. You may plan only to visit, but you also may never leave.