Dispersed camping options north of Andersonville, Georgia include several primitive sites throughout the region's national forest land. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,800 feet with moderate temperature variations between day and night. Seasonal fire restrictions typically run from May through September depending on drought conditions and regional fire danger levels.
What to do
Creek exploration: Wade through the shallow areas at Preacher's Rock where hikers can cool off during summer months. "Hay como 3 sitios para casas de campaña pequeñas. Es en la cima de una montaña, la subida son unos 40 minutos, al final se vuelve más exigente si lleva mochila grande," notes camper Ernesto H., highlighting the 40-minute uphill hike required to access this mountaintop site.
Waterfall viewing: Visit Dicks Creek Falls Campsites where multiple cascades are accessible via short trails from the main dirt road. "There is a 3 mile long dirt road to travel on. There is one large set of falls towards beginning of dirtroad with a porta potty at parking area. Most day users here," according to Lacy S., who notes the area becomes extremely crowded during summer months.
Hiking: Access portions of the Appalachian Trail directly from several camping areas. The terrain ranges from moderate to difficult with elevation changes of 500-1,000 feet on most connecting trails. Most trailheads have minimal parking and no facilities, requiring proper preparation before departure.
What campers like
Solitude opportunities: Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area provides secluded sites with minimal neighbor noise. "Nice firepit, hiking across the way. 4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some," notes reviewer "The M." about this higher-elevation camping area.
Creek access: Many primitive camping sites near Andersonville feature direct stream access for cooling off. At Justus Creek Campsite, Maria A. shares, "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!"
Multiple camping pods: Several areas feature clusters of primitive sites allowing groups to camp near each other while maintaining privacy. Dicks Creek Falls area contains "5 or 6 spots available for first come first serve camping. They have a couple closer to water but most are more remote," according to experienced camper Lacy S.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions to primitive camping sites near Andersonville are frequently inaccurate. For Hidden Creek Campground, camper heidi H. warns, "It will take u to someone's private property next door. Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. The road then opens up to a four way," notes Robyn W. about Hidden Creek Campground's approach.
Limited resources: No potable water exists at any primitive sites in the area. All water must be carried in or filtered from streams. The closest supply points are typically 10-15 miles away in small towns with limited operating hours.
Wildlife presence: Bear activity varies by season but remains consistent throughout the region. Maria A. recalls at Justus Creek Campsite, "We were warned about bears in the area so were very cautious about hanging our bear bag a little extra distance away on the opposite side of the creek."
Tips for camping with families
Select accessible sites: For families with young children, Jones Creek Dispersed Campground offers river access with gentle currents. "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," notes Billie P.
Pack extra supplies: No facilities exist within 10+ miles of most primitive camping areas near Andersonville. A portable toilet system is essential for families with children as even the limited porta-potties are often only at trailheads, not campsites.
Consider seasonal crowds: Summer brings significantly more visitors to creek-side camping areas. "Very popular place in summer time. It was over full last time I was there summer of 2024," warns Lacy S. regarding Dicks Creek Falls, suggesting spring or fall visits for families seeking more space.
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance matters: Most primitive camping near Andersonville requires navigating rough forest roads. At Hidden Creek Campground, Patrick R. advises, "There are a few big potholes in the road to watch out for but there is also another spot down the mountain down the other trail that's not as bad and easier to get to."
Size limitations: Large RVs cannot access most primitive sites in the region due to narrow access roads and tight turning radiuses. Smaller trailers under 20 feet have better success, particularly at Jones Creek where sites are described as accessible via "a decent narrow dirt road."
Alternative parking: When road conditions prevent direct RV access, consider parking at designated forest service areas and walking gear to camp. Multiple reviewers note finding better sites by exploring on foot rather than attempting to navigate poor roads with larger vehicles.
