The sound of rushing water from Big Clouds Creek defines the camping experience at Watson Mill Bridge State Park, where 21 sites spread across a wooded campground that closes for winter months. Campers find both pull-through and back-in sites with 30-amp electric and water hookups, plus three primitive walk-in sites positioned directly along the creek for those seeking closer water access.
Most sites sit on level, gravel pads under mature trees, providing natural shade during Georgia's warmer months. The primitive sites require a short hike down from parking areas, with Rebecca L. noting the "rushing water sound as there are some small rapids there" for creek-side camping. Cell service proves spotty at creek level but improves near the bathhouse, which features hot showers and coin laundry facilities.
The park's centerpiece covered bridge spans 229 feet and allows vehicle passage, located about three-quarters of a mile from the main campground via walking trails. Seven miles of hiking trails wind through the property, passing ruins of an old hydroelectric plant. Anglers work the creek for bass, while the day-use area near the bridge provides picnic spots and swimming access, though rocks can be slippery.
Weather conditions significantly impact the primitive sites, with multiple campers warning against creek-side camping during rainy periods due to flooding potential. The main campground operates from March through November, while an equestrian campground several miles away stays open year-round. RVs up to 50 feet can navigate the campground roads, though some reviewers note the layout could challenge larger rigs. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds around Watson Mill Bridge State Park offer additional options for extended stays in northeast Georgia.
Description
One of the most picturesque state parks in Georgia, Watson Mill Bridge contains the longest covered bridge in the state, spanning 229 feet across the South Fork River. Built in 1885 by Washington (W.W.) King, son of freed slave and famous covered-bridge builder Horace King, the bridge is supported by a town lattice truss system held firmly together with tree nails. At one time, Georgia had more than 200 covered bridges; today, less than 20 remain.
The park is an ideal spot for an afternoon picnic or overnight stay in the quiet campground. Hiking, biking and horseback riding trails allow visitors to enjoy the thick forest and river. During summer, visitors often play in the cool river shoals just below the bridge. Watson Mill Bridge has become a popular destination for horse owners who have their own camping area near stalls.
For reservation inquiries please call 1-800-864-7275.
For Park inquiries please contact the park at 706-783-5349.
A ParkPass is required for all vehicles. Price for ParkPasses are not included with the reservation. Overnight guests pay only one ParkPass fee for the duration of their stay. The daily ParkPass is valid at all state parks visited the same day and is not valid at state historic sites.
ParkPass fees are as follow:
1-12 passenger vehicles $5 per day or $50 annual ParkPass;
13-30 passenger vehicles $30 per day or $75 annual ParkPass;
31 or more passenger vehicles $70 per day or $250 annual ParkPass;
Georgia active duty military/veterans $3.75 per day or $37.50 annual ParkPass.
For information on our park rules and reservation policies please visit our website http://gastateparks.org/thingstoknow. Rules and regulations are posted at site offices and must be observed by all guests and their visitors.
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
For more information on upcoming events at Georgia State Parks, click here.
Due to the height (9-foot clearance) and weight (3-ton limit) restrictions for the covered bridge, please review the park map and location of the bridge before your arrival. Please use caution when following GPS instructions. Please contact the park office for assistance with directions.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWatson Mill Bridge State Park Campground is located in Georgia near Carlton
Directions
From South Atlanta: I-20 East, exit GA Hwy 138 at Conyers to GA Hwy 78 at Monroe to GA Hwy 29 at Athens and then GA Hwy 72E to Comer, park is 6 miles from Comer. Follow signs from North Atlanta: I-85 North to 316E to 29 at Athens and the GA Hwy 72E to Comer; park is 6 miles from Comer, follow signs. Park is located 20 miles East of Athens.
Address
650 Watson Mill Rd
Comer, GA 30629
Coordinates
34.02600032 N
83.07500028 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/30/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/30/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/30/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/30/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
