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Bear Creek Campground

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Trout fishing enthusiasts will find Bear Creek Campground accessible via Forest Service Road 241, though the final stream crossing requires high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. The US Forest Service maintains this free dispersed camping area within Chattahoochee National Forest, where campers park and carry gear 150-250 feet across a wooden bridge to reach sites under tall trees beside the trout-filled creek.

Access challenges keep crowds variable—empty during fall visits but packed on spring weekends when overflow parking extends onto Gates Chapel Road. The Bear Creek Crossing offers an alternative for campers preferring easier vehicle access.

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Location

Public Campground

Bear Creek Campground is located in Georgia

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.812086888282 N
84.55935611509207 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
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    Verizon
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    AT&T
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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info

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4.0

out of 5

1 Review

s
Reviewed Nov. 18, 2021

Quick getaway, convenient to hiking and MTB trails

Be advised that this campground is located off a dirt road, requires a stream crossing to reach and further hiking from the parking area to the dispersed camping area. Generally, Bear Creek Road (FS241 ?) is drivable for passenger vehicles but the final stream crossing should only be attempted with a high clearance and possibly 4x4 vehicle or duel sport motorcycle. Once in the parking lot, you will need to shuffle your gear another 150-250 feet across a small wooden bridge to reach the dispersed camping sites.

The sites are very pretty and located under towering trees. The stream you crossed is full of trout. The Bear Creek MTB and hiking loop is a further 1/4 mile up the dirt road.

We have stayed several times at this campground arriving by 4x4 and duel sport motorcycles. It’s not deep enough in to the wilderness to be considered a destination campground, Lake Conasauga, about another 30 minutes of dirt road driving should be your destination if that is what you are looking for. If you are looking for the spot to spend your first night on the road or you plan to hike or ride the Bear Creek loop, then this is a great campground. It’s about a 2 hour drive from the airport and the same from downtown Atlanta. It’s about 20 minutes to Elijay which has sufficient dining and shopping options.

It’s hard to predict site availability. We have visited in October and November and saw no one else while we have seen the small parking lot full on weekends in April and May with many cars parked out on Gates Chapel Road. This is a popular spot for day hikers and MTB riders.

Month of VisitMay
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Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities are available at Bear Creek Recreation Area?

Bear Creek Recreation Area offers several outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking is popular with trails accessible from the camping area. The creek provides opportunities for fishing, wading, and cooling off during warmer months. Wildlife viewing and nature photography are excellent given the secluded forest setting. The surrounding area also supports activities like mountain biking and exploring the natural beauty of North Georgia's mountains.

Where is Bear Creek Campground located in Ellijay, Georgia?

Bear Creek Campground is located off a dirt road in the Ellijay area of Georgia. To reach the campground, you'll need to navigate Forest Service Road 241 (Bear Creek Road), which is generally accessible by passenger vehicles, though conditions may vary seasonally. The campground requires a stream crossing to access, so appropriate vehicles are recommended, especially during wet weather or high water periods.

Is Bear Creek Campground primitive or does it offer amenities?

Bear Creek Campground is a primitive camping destination with minimal amenities. The site does not offer electricity, running water, or flush toilets. Campers should be prepared to bring all necessary supplies including drinking water and toilet paper. There are no shower facilities or hookups for RVs. This campground is best suited for those seeking a rustic, back-to-nature experience rather than a developed camping environment.

Are there dispersed camping options at Bear Creek Campground?

Yes, Bear Creek Campground offers dispersed camping options. After crossing the stream and reaching the parking area, campers need to hike further to access the dispersed camping sites. These sites are spread throughout the area rather than being organized in designated numbered spots. This setup provides more privacy and a true backcountry experience. Be prepared to carry your camping gear from the parking area to your chosen site as vehicle access is limited.

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