Callaway Resort & Gardens

About

Callaway Resort & Gardens sits on 2,500 acres in Pine Mountain, Georgia, offering a rich blend of cultivated gardens, natural woodlands, and recreational activities. Founded in 1952 by Cason and Virginia Callaway, the property was created to share the beauty of the southern Appalachian foothills with visitors from around the world.

The resort's centerpiece is the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, one of North America's largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories. Inside, you'll find over 1,000 tropical butterflies in free flight among lush vegetation. It's a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Gardens throughout the property showcase native azaleas, wildflowers, and hollies across rolling terrain. The Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl bursts with color each spring, while the Ida Cason Callaway Memorial Chapel - a small stone chapel nestled in the woods - offers a quiet place for reflection year-round.

Robin Lake Beach provides a man-made white sand beach along a freshwater lake. Families can swim, build sandcastles, or simply relax by the water. The resort also offers fishing, hiking trails, and a TreeTop Adventure course for those looking for more active pursuits.

Golf enthusiasts will find the Mountain View course, a well-regarded layout that winds through the property's pine forests and past its lakes. The resort's lodging options range from hotel-style rooms to lakeside cottages, making it easy to extend your visit beyond a single day.

Dining on property includes both casual and upscale options. The Gardens Restaurant serves Southern-inspired cuisine with views of the grounds, while lighter fare is available at seasonal cafes near the beach and gardens.

Callaway hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including the popular Fantasy In Lights holiday display each winter, the Spring Celebration featuring the blooming azaleas, and Sky High, a hot air balloon festival. These events draw visitors from across the Southeast and add a festive dimension to the natural beauty on display.

Pine Mountain itself is a charming small town with local shops and restaurants, making it worth exploring before or after your time at the resort.

Accessibility

Accessibility at Callaway Resort & Gardens is mixed, and visitors with mobility needs should plan ahead. The property is large, covering 2,500 acres of varied terrain, so getting around requires transportation. Gas-powered golf carts are available for rent, which can help visitors cover distances between attractions.

Some areas of the property present challenges for wheelchair users. Visitor reviews consistently note that the beach area at Robin Lake lacks ADA accessibility mats, making it difficult for wheelchair users to access the sand and water. Some newer restroom facilities have been updated but may still have door-accessibility issues, as visitors have reported difficulty opening doors from a wheelchair.

Paved pathways connect some of the major garden areas, but the natural terrain means not all trails or garden sections may be fully accessible.

The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, as an enclosed building, is likely more accessible than outdoor garden areas, though visitors should confirm current conditions.

It's worth noting that the Georgia Department of Natural Resources partners with organizations to provide free all-terrain wheelchairs at select state parks. While Callaway is a private resort (not a state park), visitors interested in exploring Georgia's outdoor spaces may want to check availability of GRIT Freedom Chairs or other all-terrain options through these programs.

Contact Callaway Resort & Gardens directly at their main office for the most current information about accessible rooms, mobility equipment rentals, accessible garden routes, and any recent improvements to beach or restroom accessibility. Ask specifically about accessible paths to the attractions you most want to visit, as conditions can vary significantly across this large property.

More accessible places in Georgia

• High Museum of Art (Atlanta)
• Fox Theatre (Atlanta)
• Andersonville National Historic Site (Andersonville)
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (Sandy Springs)
• Fort Pulaski National Monument (Savannah)
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park (Atlanta)