Nestled in the quaint town of Calhoun, Georgia, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those with a keen eye for beauty and an appreciation for nature’s wonders. The Rock Garden, a unique and lesser-known attraction, offers visitors a serene retreat where the harmonious blend of art and nature come together to create an enchanting experience.

This memorable and captivating garden, hidden behind a church in North Georgia, features a delightful miniature village complete with intricate stone sculptures, including remarkable representations of iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum in Italy and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

A visit to the Rock Garden Calhoun promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with wonder and awe at the skill and imagination that brought this magical world to life.

History of Rock Garden

The Rock Garden, as it stands today, is a testament to one man’s passion for rocks and his unyielding dedication to bringing his vision to life. Nestled behind the Calhoun Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Northwest Georgia’s Gordon County, this local tourist attraction mirrors a folk art paradise.

DeWitt “Old Dog” Boyd, the creative mastermind behind this marvelous attraction, transformed a simple piece of land into an awe-inspiring rock haven that continues to captivate visitors from near and far. His garden’s layout and design are not just a display of rocks but a manifestation of a creative spirit akin to the grandeur of even the Colosseum.

DeWitt Boyd’s love affair with rocks began in his childhood when he would collect stones of various shapes, sizes, and colors. This passion was further fueled when his family moved, exposing him to a variety of geological wonders.

Over the years, his fascination grew, and he developed a keen eye for identifying unique and interesting rocks. Inspired by his passion, he dreamt of creating a place where others could appreciate the beauty of these natural wonders, and thus, the concept of the Calhoun Rock Garden, located behind the Calhoun area, was born.

For DeWitt, the Rock Garden was more than just a collection of rocks; it was a reflection of his artistic vision and an opportunity to showcase the incredible versatility and beauty of these seemingly ordinary objects.

Drawing inspiration from rock gardens he had visited across the country, DeWitt meticulously designed his own masterpiece, using the rocks he had lovingly collected over the years to create intricate structures, pathways, and landscapes that capture the essence of nature’s splendor.

Development of the Garden

One of the most captivating features of the Rock Garden is the enchanting miniature village that transports visitors into a magical world of tiny buildings and charming scenes. This whimsical village includes structures crafted from tiny stones, ceramic, and broken glass, resembling 50 miniature castles and quaint tiny houses, offering a must-see experience.

The village showcases a diverse array of miniature structures, each representing different architectural styles, time periods, and cultural influences.

From quaint country cottages to grand castles and ornate churches, the miniature village is a melting pot of architectural beauty and creativity. Notable replicas include a miniature Notre Dame Cathedral, which took 27 months to build, and an impressive Himeji Castle replica.

The beauty of the miniature village also lies in the detail and craftsmanship found in each work. DeWitt devoted countless hours to carefully constructing the tiny structures, using a mix of natural materials, such as rocks, pebbles, and wood, complemented by mosaic, stained glass, and porcelain figures.

The intricate details present in the miniature village are truly breathtaking. From the textured roofs and brickwork to the delicate windowpanes and ornate doorways, every feature has been meticulously designed and crafted to perfection. The presence of gazebos, lighthouses, and terraces adds to its charm.

DeWitt’s keen eye for detail and unwavering commitment to his art are evident in each tiny building, which together create a harmonious and awe-inspiring miniature world, set amidst an acre of flowers and greenery, offering a unique opportunity to get in touch with nature.

Opening Hours and Admission Fee

The Rock Garden warmly welcomes visitors every day from sunrise to sunset, offering plenty of time for you to leisurely explore and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this one-of-a-kind attraction. To truly embrace the intricate details and vivid colors of the garden, it’s recommended to plan your visit during daylight hours.

What makes the Rock Garden even more delightful is that there’s no admission fee! This charming spot is open to everyone at no cost, allowing you to experience its magic and wonder without any barriers.

How to Get to Rock Garden in Calhoun?

The Rock Garden is located in Northwest Georgia, behind the Calhoun Seventh-Day Adventist Church. It is easily accessible by car and offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Here’s how you can get to this hidden gem:

Address: The Rock Garden, 1411 Rome Rd SW, Calhoun, GA 30701

• Driving Directions

If you’re coming from Atlanta, take I-75 N towards Chattanooga. Take exit 312 for GA-53 toward Calhoun/Fairmount. Turn left onto GA-53 W/GA-53 Connector W/US-41 S (signs for Rome Road).
Continue on Rome Road for approximately 1.5 miles, and the Rock Garden will be on your left, situated within the grounds of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Parking: There is a parking lot available at the church, which can be used by visitors to the Rock Garden. Parking is generally free and easily accessible.

• Public Transportation

Unfortunately, there is limited public transportation available to the Rock Garden.

Once you arrive at the Rock Garden, be prepared to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty, intricate details, and serene atmosphere that make this hidden gem a must-visit destination in Calhoun, Georgia.

FAQs

Who created the Rock Garden?

DeWitt Boyd, also known as “Old Dog”, is the creator of this unique folk art pleasance.

What can visitors see at the Rock Garden?

Visitors can see 50 diminutive buildings, including replicas of historic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and Dover Castle, all crafted with intricate detail from materials like broken glass, china, and cement.

Is there a specific theme to the Rock Garden?

Yes, the garden features a whimsical theme with miniature towns, a prayer garden, and structures like a blue-domed monastery and a tower resembling Bethlehem’s architecture.

Are there any activities for families at the Rock Garden?

Yes, the garden offers a family-friendly environment with a walkway to explore and a family game area for children and grandchildren.

What is unique about the construction of the Rock Garden?

The garden’s constructions are slow and labor-intensive, cobbled together from odd pieces, shells, tiles, and featuring an alter-ego porcelain figure.

How many children did DeWitt Boyd have?

DeWitt Boyd had eight children who also contributed to the garden’s creation.

Does the Rock Garden feature any special architectural designs?

Yes, the garden showcases a variety of architectural designs including a gazebo and structures inspired by places like Jerusalem and Genghis Khan’s era.

Conclusion

In summary, the Rock Garden in Calhoun, Georgia, is a truly remarkable hidden gem that offers visitors an enchanting and unforgettable experience.

From its fascinating history and the unwavering passion of its creator, DeWitt “Old Dog” Boyd, to the intricate details and craftsmanship of the miniature village, the Rock Garden is a testament to the boundless potential of human creativity and the beauty of nature.