LaFayette

Roadside markets, cows grazing on the rolling hills, bright red barns and plant nurseries – such are the scenes of Rock Spring, a rural community found in Walker County, Georgia. While only 30 minutes south of Chattanooga and bordered by large, busy Georgia communities, Rock Spring keeps its slice of country peace.<br><br>"It's definitely in the country, off the I-75 route, unlike places like Ringgold. You're not landlocked, though – there's some pretty good routes to get to nearby cities," says Christopher Owens, a Realtor with eXp Realty. "You'll get some beautiful views, and there's good country living to do." Whether living on a tree-shaded back road or in the neat grids of a subdivision, Rock Spring can surprise you with its range of architectural styles. There are renovated log cabins, cottage-feel bungalows and quintessential ranch homes for those who prefer the countryside charm aesthetic. Want something more modern? Many Rock Spring homes were built at the tail-end of the 20th century, so it's easy to find a contemporary Craftsman or Colonial Revival, typically circled around cul-de-sacs.<br><br>The median selling price for single-family homes in Rock Spring is $355,000, and properties typically sell after a month and a half on the market. Two-bedroom homes - or generally, older ones - usually start at around $250,000, while newer, larger properties can span the range between $330,000 to $600,000. The higher prices are more of an outlier, based on homes with four or more bedrooms or if they have several acres.<br><br>Public schools in Rock Spring fall under the Walker County School District, and children can begin their educational journey at Rock Spring Elementary School. It receives an A- grade from Niche for its dedicated staff, and the school keeps yearly updated, comprehensive School Improvement Plans available on its website. Students may also start at Saddle Ridge Elementary and Middle School for ease of transition into higher grades – Saddle Ridge is considered above average by Niche, taking the No.3 spot for best middle schools in Walker County. Whether attending Rock Spring Elementary or Saddle Ridge, students will finish primary education at LaFayette High School. Named the regional winner for Most Positive School" in the Northwest Georgia Region, LaFayette High puts a ton of energy and focus on providing their students a well-rounded experience, blending academics, extracurriculars and community involvement.<br><br>The main thoroughfare of Highway 27 cuts directly through Rock Spring, so getting to daily errand stops is made quick and easy. While nearby LaFayette has larger commercial areas, Rock Spring has all your essentials – and its small-town vibe shines through its local businesses. Whether stopping for freshly grown garden delights at the Rock Spring Produce Market, popping into a bank or looking to get a car tune-up, the neighborhood has you covered. You'll find many residents in Pie Slingers Pizzeria, enjoying craft beer and hand-tossed pies in the eclectic and retro space.<br><br>"You're not far from the Chickamauga Military Park, and they did a great job at maintaining the area, so it's clean and kept up with – it's great to drive through and visit. There's a ton of Civil War monuments, campgrounds and hiking trails – they even do a couple of marathons through the park during the year. It's a nice place to take a nature walk and discover some history," Owens says. The Rock Spring Athletic Association provides both indoor and outdoor recreational space for sports such as baseball, basketball, football and more. If you're a fan of off-roading, nearby Houston Valley OHV Trails offers a 25-mile system for motorbikes and all-terrain vehicles, with the pathways ranging from easy to difficult.<br><br>For those who don't want to be removed entirely from city convenience but definitely want a laidback, slow-living lifestyle, Rock Spring is waiting.