Chattahoochee National Forest is home to Tate Branch Campground, a forested site along a creek corridor outside Clayton, Georgia, managed by the US Forest Service at $15 per night. Getting there requires navigating a narrow, winding dirt road with one-lane bridges, so drivers towing larger rigs should factor in the rough approach before committing. Reservations are available, which matters most around holiday weekends when creek-side sites fill quickly.
Water access is the main draw here. Several sites sit directly on the creek, and the surrounding area has multiple fishing spots. Cell service is essentially nonexistent, which many campers treat as a feature rather than a drawback. Campers consistently note that the sites are spacious and not crowded together, even when the campground itself sees heavier use. Pit toilets are on-site and reported to be reasonably maintained.
Amenities are minimal. Despite what the listed data suggests, multiple reviewers confirm there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups, only a manual pump water source. "Be sure to bring enough water," notes Haley C., "unless you're planning on boiling the river water." The campground operates seasonally, so checking the Forest Service website before traveling a long distance is worth the extra step. Anglers and tent campers tend to get the most out of this site, though small trailers and pop-ups can manage the access road. Those wanting full hookups or paved access might consider Sandy Bottoms Campground or look into campsites near Chattahoochee National Forest for a broader range of setups.
Description
Overview
Beginning May 1st, 2025 Tate Branch campground will require reservations via recreation.gov for camping in all sites at this facility. This much-admired 17-site developed campground is sure to heighten the innate beauty of any season. Graced with various species of hardwoods and resting on the shore of Tallulah River, Tate Branch Campground provides a rustic experience for the outdoor enthusiast to camp, swim, fish, or enjoy the scenery.
Recreation
Beginning May 1st, 2025 reservations via recreation.gov will be required for all sites at Tate Branch campground. Tate Branch Campground is in a unique area. You can enjoy walking along the Tallulah River. Fishing is a popular sport in the Tallulah River. If a hike is what you desire, take a short drive along the Tallulah River Road through Tate City to the end of the road, which not only has some great views but at the end of the road is Beech Creek Trail and Buck Creek Trail both are found in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness Area. Looking for an easier hike, you can go the other direction on Tallulah River Road for approximately 5 miles to bridge #1 where you will find a small parking area for the Coleman River Trail a 1.1 in and out trail that runs along a portion of the Coleman River that flows with the Tallulah River.
Facilities
The campground offers 17 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and a lantern post at each site. The new toilet building (built in 2023) is located on the exit road from the campground. There is drinking water available between the toilet building and campsite #2.
Natural Features
Tate Branch Campground is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, a place of exploration and wonder. This National Forest is rich in history and is said to be a hiker's paradise with its winding trails, scenic mountains, and rolling hills.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (706) 754-6221.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to the campground can enjoy scenic drives when going to visit nearby Rabun Bald the second-highest peak in Georgia at 4696 ft above sea level. Continue your exploring and you can find many waterfalls to see and trails to hike. One of the longest trails in the area is the National Recreational Bartram Trail. If some water activities are on your mind the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River has fishing, whitewater rafting, canoe, and kayak possibilities with outfitter and guide services available if you enjoy your time on the river. Tallulah Gorge State Park and historic Lakemont are also a close drive. Lake Rabun and Lake Burton are great places to put a boat in the water and enjoy those memories you are ready to make. Within an hour's drive, you can spend some time visiting the city of Helen a beautiful alpine village in White County if you find yourself there be sure and stop by Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, or Ravens Cliff Wilderness for more hiking fun. While in the neighborhood a short drive around will find you at Brasstown Bald the highest peak in Georgia rising to 4784 ft above sea level.
Fee Info
All camping is by reservation only at recreation.gov
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsTate Branch Campground is located in Georgia near Rabun Gap
Directions
Take U.S. 76 west from Clayton, Georgia for 8 miles; turn right (north) on Persimmon Road for 4.2 miles; turn left (northwest) on Tallulah River Road (Forest Service 70 Road) for 4 miles.
Address
4049 Tallulah River Road
Clayton, GA 30525
Coordinates
34.9553 N
83.5521 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
