Dispersed camping areas near Allatoona Lake provide primitive camping options for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience. Located in the southern Appalachian foothills, these sites typically range from 1,200 to 2,500 feet in elevation with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Access to most locations requires traveling on forest service roads that deteriorate seasonally, particularly after heavy rainfall events common during spring and fall.
What to do
Explore creek ecosystems: Jones Creek Dispersed Campground offers riverside camping where visitors can wade in shallow waters. According to camper Billie P., "This river is amazing, low current makes its easy to walk in and there are a few little water falls we enjoyed hanging on for a bit."
Night sky observation: The remote Ball Field area provides exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Visitor Roy B. notes, "The camping field is at the base of Bald Mountain, altitude 4005'. Nearby Tearbritches Trail will take you to the summit of Bald Mountain and then down to the Conasauga River."
Bird watching: SongBird Trail Camp in Cohutta WMA attracts various species during migration seasons. As one regular visitor explains, "This area will speak for itself once you arrive. It's very peaceful and calming, beautiful hikes, pretty nature, and great memories!"
What campers like
Quiet weekday periods: Though weekends draw crowds, midweek visits often provide solitude at most dispersed sites. The Mountain Side Overlook campsite reviewer mentions, "Nice firepit, hiking across the way. 4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some."
Water features: Justus Creek Campsite provides natural water sources valued by hikers on longer treks. One hiker shared, "The creek was absolutely freezing cold in July, it was great to rinse some clothes and ourselves off. It was definitely one of our best nights sleep listening to the water!"
Dark skies for astronomy: The Ball Field area receives particular praise for astronomical viewing. Tyler J. recommends, "Go here on a new moon night in the summer and you're sure to have a great night of uninterrupted beauty!"
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions frequently lead to incorrect locations or private property. At Hidden Creek Campground, visitor Heidi H. advises, "Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Most access roads deteriorate after rainfall, creating difficult driving conditions. Robyn W. cautions about Hidden Creek: "LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES... Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn't too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well."
Limited communication: Cell coverage ranges from intermittent to nonexistent at most sites. At Ball Field, Roy B. reports, "The cell connection is intermittent and usually only one bar (or no cell)."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, select sites closest to maintained forest roads. At Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area, Steve V. notes, "The field is fairly sloped, so you want to have some shoring if you are in a trailer, roof top tent, or van."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity increases during summer and fall months. Gabrielle D. recommends at Ball Field, "Watch out for bears."
Pack extra water: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites, requiring families to bring all necessary drinking water. Roy B. advises, "No amenities. Lake Conasauga is nearby which has some amenities."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Access roads to most primitive sites require higher clearance vehicles. At Mountain Side Overlook, reviewers note ground clearance makes it "non-accessible to some" vehicles.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Ball Field provides the most space for larger rigs. Steve V. explains it's "a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers and Overlanders."
Consider seasonal timing: Spring visits often encounter muddy conditions while fall provides more stable road surfaces. Patrick R. from Hidden Creek Campground suggests, "There is also another spot down the mountain down the other trail that's not as bad and easier to get to."
