The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounding Blue Ridge contains over 750,000 acres of wilderness with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, this region receives approximately 60 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and reliable water sources for tent camping near Blue Ridge, Georgia. Spring temperatures typically range from 45-75°F, while summer highs reach 85-90°F with increased humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Creek Falls Appalachian Trail sits at the convergence of three trout streams, making it ideal for anglers. According to Kayla S., "Three different trout streams come together here and the fishing is fun. There are rules about what kind of lures/hooks you can use, so be sure to do your research."
Hiking access: Multiple trails connect to tent sites near Blue Ridge. At Springer Mountain Shelter, Maria A. notes, "The shelter is close to the terminus of the AT - definitely recommend setting up, eating dinner, then heading back to the terminus to watch the sunset there!"
Water activities: Many tent camping areas feature creeks and streams for cooling off. At Lost Creek Campground, Scott E. mentions, "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived... The highlight would definitely be the creek. There are spots that you can swim around in."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Tent campers appreciate the isolation available at less-developed sites. At Your Toccoa River Cove, Everette G. reports, "It is a piece of property right off the toccoa river that has a spring, creek, an outhouse, and a covered shelter. We camped under the shelter for a little over a week twice. There is plenty of dirt road hiking as well as property to explore in the area."
Natural water sources: Many sites offer spring water for those prepared to filter it. Stephanie J. noted at Your Toccoa River Cove, "There is a spring you can drink straight out of, and streams criss-crossing the entire area if you want the rugged feeling of purifying your own water."
No reservation requirements: Several tent camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis. William W. explains about Hickory Flatts Cemetery, "There are no camp sites, its an open area about the size of a football field. There are bathrooms, with four toilets... no running water or electricity. There is a fire ring, but you need to bring in your own firewood."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many tent camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. For Hickory Flatts Cemetery, William W. advises, "If you're pulling a camper, I'd suggest you check out FS251 before you drive into the site, its roughly TWO miles. I'd not bring in a big 5th wheel, etc... and PLEASE don't drive out into the grassy areas, you will get stuck."
Cell service limitations: Most primitive tent sites have no connectivity. At Lost Creek Campground, Gregg G. reports, "There is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception."
Military training awareness: Some forest areas host occasional military exercises. William W. notes about Hickory Flatts Cemetery, "The Army Rangers use this area of the forest a lot for training."
Cemetery etiquette: Hickory Flatts Cemetery is an active burial ground. William W. cautions, "This is an old church cemetery and its still in use, so don't be surprised if church people show up on the weekend or if a funeral comes in for a burial."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences for children. At Camp Woodruff Boy Scout Summer Camp, Ethan notes, "One of the best campgrounds, hands down. As an Eagle Scout from around this area, this was our go-to place for summer camp and occasional other camping trips as well. With a large lake, open field, and well maintained roads and accommodations."
Water play options: Children enjoy stream access at many tent sites. Stephanie J. from Your Toccoa River Cove shares, "Is there water to play in? This is a question my kids ask about almost every campground we go to. Before this trip I told them, 'yes!' But once we got to the Toccoa River Cove, all of us realized that 'yes' really meant, 'this is a phenomenal wonderland we will never want to leave.'"
Pack extra supplies: Remote locations mean limited access to forgotten items. Melissa R. from Your Toccoa River Cove suggests, "The supplies left were very useful. The grilling tripod for the fire pit was a nice surprise. Plenty of napkins and paper towels left and even some toilet paper in the out house."
Tips for RVers
Access limitations: Many tent camping areas cannot accommodate larger vehicles. Stephanie J. cautions about Your Toccoa River Cove, "The driveway down to the shelter is very steep, and does not allow much space to turn around. RVs or larger trucks will not fit, and per the owner only one vehicle may park at the base of the driveway at a time--all others should park just past the gate once you first turn onto the driveway."
Road conditions assessment: Forest service roads often deteriorate with weather. Chris D. from Lost Creek Campground advises, "Super remote area, ride were in decent shape, I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here."
Pack-in essentials: Most tent camping areas lack RV hookups. Tyler J. describes Lost Creek Campground as "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!"
