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McCaysville's history is closely tied to the natural beauty and rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains in north Georgia. Long before European settlement, the Cherokee people lived in the region, relying on its forests, rivers, and fertile valleys for sustenance. The copper-rich lands of the area later attracted settlers and miners, who began moving in during the 19th century. McCaysville was eventually incorporated in 1904, growing around both mining activity and the natural confluence of the Toccoa River and the state line with Tennessee.

Economic development in McCaysville was shaped by the copper mining industry. The nearby Ducktown Basin in Tennessee became one of the nation's most productive copper mining regions, and McCaysville served as a gateway community. Mining operations provided jobs and supported ancillary industries, including smelting, shipping, and trade. The town also benefited from agriculture, with local farms producing corn, vegetables, and livestock to sustain families and supply markets. Small businesses flourished as the town grew into a hub for both miners and farmers.

Infrastructure played a central role in McCaysville's evolution. The arrival of the railroad connected the town directly to mining operations, trade centers, and neighboring communities. Highways later reinforced this accessibility, particularly U.S. Highway 76 and Georgia State Route 60. McCaysville is unique in its geography, as it is directly connected to Copperhill, Tennessee; the two towns share a seamless border, with the state line literally running through downtown. This unusual feature fostered a blended community where residents easily crossed between states for work, shopping, and social life.

Community life in McCaysville developed around its working-class roots. The mining culture created a tight-knit atmosphere, with families depending on one another during challenging times. Churches, schools, and civic organizations anchored the community, while the town's position on the Toccoa/Ocoee River made it a natural gathering place. Over time, festivals, riverfront events, and cultural traditions enriched the town's identity, blending Appalachian heritage with the resilience of a mining community.

Today, McCaysville has transitioned from a mining-dependent economy to one rooted in tourism, recreation, and small business. The scenic riverfront attracts visitors for rafting, fishing, and hiking, while the town's historic charm and quirky state-line feature draw travelers exploring the North Georgia mountains. Residents enjoy a mix of natural beauty, community spirit, and access to both Georgia and Tennessee amenities. McCaysville remains a vibrant small town, balancing its storied past with a promising future as part of the Appalachian highlands.