Cooper Creek offers rustic campsites situated at 2,800 feet elevation near Blairsville in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The creek-side sites provide direct access to trout fishing with stocked and native fish populations. Multiple camping areas connect to hiking trails and outdoor recreation areas within the 30-mile radius of Blairsville, making it a central hub for dog friendly campgrounds near Blairsville and the surrounding mountains.
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: Access multiple fishing spots at Cooper Creek where campers can wade in shallow areas. "Fun place to camp, especially if you want to get away. Primitive-no running water in winter so pack that in. Fire pits have a swivel grill, ideal to cook with the cast iron over the fire... Rainbow trout right at the site. We drove up from Florida with a bunch of people that had never trout or fly-fished before. Everyone ended up catching fish and having a great time," shares Vince C.
Mountain biking on developed trail systems: The trails at Jackrabbit Mountain offer rides for all skill levels. "The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are absolutely amazing for all skill levels," notes Katrin S. The campground provides direct trail access from sites, so no need to transport bikes. "There is a 1.5 mile connector dirt trail to the Jackrabbit mountain trail system, so no need to ride on the road. It goes parallel to the road and starts at the Y right before entering the campground."
Waterfalls and hiking: Find multiple waterfall hikes near Desoto Falls Recreation Area, with short and long trail options. "Very nice little campground with a just a short hike to the falls. Some sites on lower loop were creek side, but not as private as upper loop," reports Elizabeth W. The area features both upper and lower falls accessible via moderate trails, with some sites positioned to hear the water sounds at night.
What campers like
Creek-side site selection: Sites at Raven Cliff Falls offer stream-side privacy with good spacing. "We camped along the creek at one of these sites. We absolutely loved being by the creek, and a lot of the sites are spread out to give a good bit of privacy," explains D & Jess W. The campsite layout provides multiple options depending on your preferred access. "Upon turning off the main road into the Raven Cliff Falls area there's a trail on the right prior to the bridge. This trail leads to a few tent campsites."
Quiet surroundings: Campers appreciate the secluded feeling at many Blairsville area campgrounds. "It was our first camping trip of the season, and it couldn't have been at a better spot. The camp sites are clean, private, and great for tent campers," shares Phil K. about Lake Winfield Scott. The mountain setting creates natural sound barriers between many campsites.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathhouses and common areas rank high in camper satisfaction. "The facilities are nice, I would recommend it," notes Sam D. about Bald Mountain Camping Resort. Campground hosts often receive positive mentions for their attentiveness to cleanliness.
What you should know
Hard-packed camping surfaces: Bring appropriate tent stakes for rocky ground. "The ground was hard & pretty level. Make sure you have solid tent spikes," advises Frank S. about Trackrock Campground & Cabins. Many campsites in the mountain region have compacted gravel or clay surfaces.
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection at most campgrounds. "This campground was pretty and had an easy hike to a scenic waterfall. My only complaints are that the sites are on top of each other and are extremely visible, and the road noise is surprisingly loud," notes Jesse D. about Desoto Falls. While some campgrounds offer WiFi at central locations, cell signals are unreliable throughout the region.
Bear activity: Proper food storage is required. "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out. So pack out all food items and trash or hang a bear bag," warns D & Jess W. about Raven Cliff Falls. Most campgrounds provide bear-proof storage containers or hanging posts.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Look for creeks and lake swimming areas with gradual entry. "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi State Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp," shares Diane G. The swimming areas are typically roped off for safety.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Been going since I was a kid, now I get to take my kids! Tons to do, tons of fun!" states Chris R. about Vogel State Park. Many sites position family-friendly amenities centrally for easy supervision.
Pet-inclusive activities: Pet friendly campgrounds near Blairsville accommodate family dogs on trails. "The trails along the lake were nice and the dogs enjoyed it," mentions Angela M. Trails vary in difficulty, with many offering moderate terrain suitable for children and pets together.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Mountain campgrounds often have sloped pads. "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times," warns Anthony M. about Trackrock Campground. Most campgrounds recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for RVs.
Length restrictions: Check maximum vehicle length before booking. "We had a pull through site on the pond. Sites are VERY close together, all gravel with no grass between rigs. Full hook-ups. Cable and not very good WiFi," notes 5Dudes about Bald Mountain Camping Resort. Many mountain campgrounds have limited turn space and narrow access roads.
Seasonal water access: Winter camping often means no water hookups. "Beautiful campground. Everything is clean and well maintained. Bathrooms are kept nice and clean. Campsites are gravel with full hook ups and a campfire ring," shares Mike G. Most campgrounds in the region close water systems from November through March.
