Bleckley County: Fishing, History and Motorsports

In Bleckley County, waterways and natural areas meet Cochran’s history, golf and seasonal events. As you plan your trip, you can choose different focuses: a day of fishing at the lake, a look at historic buildings, or a visit on race day or during a festival. Each offering has its own conditions and rhythms.

Water, Conservation and Fishing

The Ocmulgee Wildlife Management Area covers 15,000 acres across Bleckley, Pulaski and Twiggs counties. Part of the area was acquired to provide habitat for the black bear population in Central Georgia. The size of the protected area is thus linked to a specific conservation purpose.

The Ocmulgee Public Fishing Area offers a different focus for fishing: The 106-acre lake can be fished from shore or by boat. The area includes a concrete boat ramp, restrooms, picnic tables, a fish-cleaning station and fishing piers. Fish species include largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish, crappie and redear sunfish (shellcracker). Fish populations and stocking may change; before you arrive, also check the condition of the facilities if any are important to your visit.

Dykes Landing on the Ocmulgee River is a stop on the Ocmulgee Water Trail, which runs from Macon to the Altamaha River. Camping, canoeing and fishing are possible recreational activities there. When planning a river visit, changing river conditions are also a factor; current camping arrangements may vary as well.

History and Attractions in Cochran

In Cochran, the Cochran-Bleckley Cotton & Peanut Museum is dedicated to the development and processing of cotton and peanuts. It is an outdoor museum next to the Cochran-Bleckley County Library on Third Street. The history of two agricultural products takes center stage here. Check local visitor arrangements before your visit.

Another historic landmark is the Bleckley County Courthouse in Cochran. Built in 1914 in the Neoclassical style, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Its construction date and architecture give the courthouse a distinct historic character. Other historic sites in Cochran listed on the National Register include the 1942 Cochran Municipal Building and the 1928 Cochran School.

Golf, Motorsports and Events

The Woods Golf Course features 27 distinctive holes. Tree-lined fairways, large ponds, winding streams and several types of bunkers define the course. A large practice facility with grass teeing areas complements the offerings; the clubhouse has a limited snack bar. Since facilities can change, it is a good idea to check current details if your plans depend on a specific offering.

Cochran Motor Speedway is a lighted 3/8-mile dirt track. Racing classes there include Road Warriors, Pure Stock, Cadet, Sportsman and Late Models. Races are scheduled on Saturdays from April through October, and special events are held throughout the year. The season schedule and racing classes may change, so check the current racing calendar before traveling.

Recurring events also offer their own highlights. Biking Bleckley Metric 100 is held annually in connection with Cochran and Bleckley County; the route and dates may change. The annual Cochran-Bleckley Country Fest features a street dance, handmade crafts, festival food, live music and inflatable games for children. If a festival or race is the reason for your trip, check the event dates in advance.

Seasonal Harvest at Greene Acres Farm

Greene Acres Farm specializes in pick-your-own strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and tomatoes. Which fruits are available depends on the season, production and weather. Fresh, homemade strawberry ice cream is made there daily during opening hours; it is a seasonal product, and opening hours may also change. Pick-your-own produce and ice cream offer different reasons to visit, and planning for either depends on the harvest season and operating hours.

Discover more destinations: Ben Hill County, Crisp County, Troup, Columbia, Cherokee, Fulton, Decatur County.

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