The county seat of Union County is Blairsville, which is the only incorporated community in the county. Blairsville was named for Captain James Blair, a negotiater with the Indians.

The area increasingly has become a recreational destination since the Tennessee Valley Authority created Nottely Lake on the Nottely River; and the development of Vogel State Park, a popular vacation facility.

Much of Union County lies within the Chattahoochee National Forest and, thus, is under Federal ownership.

Georgia's highest point, Brasstown Bald at 4,784 feet, is in Union County. An observation platform offers a spectacular view of the surrounding Smoky Mountains.