A small South Georgia community near the river
The Baxley community, near the Altamaha River, offers acres of woodlands and a small downtown in Southern Georgia. "Baxley is a town with not much shopping or businesses. But there's the Edwin Hatch Nuclear Power Plant right by the river. It employs a lot of people in the area," says Jada Nail, a Baxley native and employee of Head Realty. Inside the rural city are homes next to open fields and undeveloped land. Nail says that some residences were damaged by the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene in 2024. Baxley is the seat of Appling County, and locals gather throughout the year for regional events held in the community.
Buyers find ranch styles and New Traditional houses
Near the city center are brick ranch-style houses and manufactured homes. There are also New Traditional styles from the 2000s to the 2020s. Newer subdivisions, such as the Sweetwater development, contain lots around a third of an acre. The area becomes more rural outside of downtown. These dwellings tend to have larger front yards with more pine trees. Spacious properties may include barns and sheds. Some cleared parcels contain new constructions. Many properties have septic tanks, especially outside of Baxley proper. Home prices range from $100,000 to about $400,000. However, houses built over the last 10 years cost between $220,000 and $400,000.
Local parks and water sports in the area
Deen's Landing Boat Ramp provides access to the Altamaha River. "The water stays high a lot, so the river is only accessible during certain times of year. It also depends on how much it rains," Nail says. Locals also launch boats at Moody Forest, a hot spot for hiking, hunting and fishing; the 4,675-acre area is also known as the Moody Forest Wildlife Management Area. Water Works Park, in downtown, has a seasonal splash pad next to the water tower. The Appling County Recreation Complex has multiple athletic fields for community sporting leagues. Max Deen Memorial Park is within walking distance of some homes. The park includes tennis courts and a playground. The on-site aquatic center has a heated, indoor pool available throughout the year.
Farmers market products and local eateries
The Appling County Farmers Market on Thomas Street features vendors selling fresh produce and artisanal goods. Locals shop for more groceries at Harveys Supermarkets and Circle F Meats. There are several dining options throughout the community. Common Ground Coffee & Eatery is open from early morning to lunchtime. K & L Bar-B-Que is a concession stand where patrons order to-go plates from the window. Nail recommends Tequilas Mexican Restaurant and the nearby Benton Lee's Steakhouse.
Attending Appling County Schools
Public schools are about 2 miles from the center of Baxley. Students attend Appling County Elementary and Appling County Middle, which have B-plus ratings from Niche. Appling County High has a B. Locals head to the Jimmy Swain Stadium for school football games and graduation ceremonies. Appling County Schools allows restricted transfers inside the district; however, families must provide their own transportation. Families may also choose the private option, Appling Christian Academy.
Smoketember Fest and the Fall Kayak Paddle
Appling County Agriculture Center hosts events like Smoketember Fest. Locals also gather for community activities on the water, like the River Rat Run or Fall Kayak Paddle events.
Getting around on Highway 1 and U.S 341
The local hospital, Appling Healthcare, is off Tollison Street. Most drivers travel along U.S. Highway 1 and U.S. 341, also known as Golden Isles Parkway. The thoroughfares intersect in the heart of Baxley, leading to nearby cities. Vidalia is 20 miles from the community's outskirts, while Jesup is about 25 miles away.
Weather trends in Appling
The region has a history of hurricanes and intense thunderstorms. These severe weather systems can lead to damaging winds and flooding, which can impact properties. The county also has a moderate risk of wildfires. Appling County Emergency Management Agency provides updates through a Facebook page and text message alert system.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
