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Map showing campground location near Villanow, Georgia
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FacilitiesMap showing campground location near Villanow, Georgia

John's Mountain WMA

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Chattahoochee National Forest's John's Mountain Wildlife Management Area provides free, drive-in camping in northwest Georgia, managed by the US Forest Service. Sites sit close to the road, but traffic through the area is minimal. Campers report fishing and hiking nearby, and pets are welcome. The wooded setting means tree clearance can be tight, which matters for rigs with slides or awnings. Cell service is available, and campfires are permitted. Those planning a trip through the region can browse campsites near Chattahoochee National Forest or consider nearby Pocket Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest as an alternative base.

Reservation Info

Campgrounds & Shooting Range

The US Forest Service has switched to a cashless payment system. You will have to download the recreation.gov app, set up an account and pay online to use the facilities. Please note that proof of payment has to be shown at arrival. Cell service can be poor at the campsites so take a screenshot or print off with you. Visit the USFS site listed below to see definitive information on using the grounds.

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Map & DirectionsJohn's Mountain WMA is located in Georgia near Villanow

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

34.5609596 N
85.1027004 W

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Connectivity

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    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/27/26
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • 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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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - John's Mountain WMA

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

A heavily wooded campground with recent facility upgrades and peaceful atmosphere. Guests commonly noted tight RV maneuvering but appreciated the quiet setting and improved amenities.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Oct. 22, 2023

Great in the fall

The last time I camped at Pocket Rec Area was a few years ago.  Since then, they've added picnic tables, metal fire rings with grill grates, and lantern poles at the campsites, as well as bear-proof trash bins and water spigots scattered throughout the campground.  There's a centrally-located bathroom, no showers.  The driveways are asphalt now, used to just be dirt.  A ranger came by and told us they plan to add electric hookups in 2025.  In 2024, reservations will be made online through Recreation.gov, but the ranger told us they would still allow same-day reservations.

We stayed for two nights in October and felt like we had the whole place to ourselves.  There were only a few other campers, none near us.  With ATB senior pass, we paid $7.50/night.

All the sites are heavily wooded and most have trees or large rocks very close on both sides of the driveway.  The driveways are not straight, so you have to jog to one side halfway through backing in.  It's tricky to make that slight turn while avoiding the trees and rocks.  We weren't able to extend our awning all the way because of the trees.  If you have slides, you may not be able to put them out.

There is an easy trail inside the campground and several more not far from the entrance.

Site23
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Cindy A., October 22, 2023
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Cindy A., October 22, 2023
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Cindy A., October 22, 2023
  • (6) View All
Reviewed May. 1, 2021

Johns Mtn

Be advised. The camp sites on the creek are shut down by the DNR. We stayed at spot 11. Its the first turn in on the street. Free to camp there and a good fire ring. The neighbors were polite and quiet. Just get there early to get a good spot. Good fishing and hiking in the area.

Site11
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Jody P., May 1, 2021
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Jody P., May 1, 2021
  • Review photo of John's Mountain WMA by Jody P., May 1, 2021
Reviewed Nov. 23, 2020

Nice place to spend the night

Nice place to spend the night. If you come up from the south, the first spot contains about 5-6 campsites. If you proceed up the road, you will find other designated spots off both sides of the road. All the sites appear to be relatively close to the road, but it did not feel like the traffic(very little) was intrusive. I only stayed on night and I was passing through so I can't vouch for things to do in the area.

SiteSpot 8
Month of VisitNovember
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping allowed in Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area?

Yes, camping is allowed in Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area. There are multiple designated camping spots throughout the area. The first turn-in on the road (spot 11) offers free camping with a good fire ring. Be aware that campsites along the creek have been closed by the DNR. Most sites are relatively close to the road but still provide a peaceful experience. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during busy periods.

What is the best way to navigate Johns Mountain WMA?

For navigating Johns Mountain WMA, approach from the south to access camping areas systematically. The road system features designated camping spots on both sides. The first spot from the southern entrance contains about 5-6 campsites, with additional sites as you proceed further up the road. Consider obtaining a map from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website before your visit to better understand the layout of trails, camping areas, and points of interest.

What hunting opportunities are available at Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area?

Johns Mountain WMA offers various hunting opportunities throughout different seasons. While specific details about hunting seasons aren't provided in the available information, the management area is maintained by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which typically manages wildlife populations for sustainable hunting. Turkey hunting is available during designated seasons. Contact the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division or check their website for current hunting regulations, required permits, and seasonal dates before planning your hunting trip.

Where is Johns Mountain located in Georgia?

Johns Mountain is located in Northwest Georgia. It's part of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest region and is near the Pocket Recreation Area. The area features creek access, hiking trails, and natural landscapes typical of the north Georgia mountains. Its location makes it accessible for visitors from Chattanooga, Atlanta, and other surrounding areas. The mountain provides a convenient outdoor recreation destination for those seeking camping, fishing, and hiking experiences in Georgia's mountainous terrain.

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