Best Dispersed Camping near Buford, GA
Dispersed camping near Buford, Georgia centers primarily in the Chattahoochee National Forest, where several primitive sites exist along creek beds and forest roads. Jones Creek, Justus Creek, and Preacher's Rock provide free camping opportunities in undeveloped areas with no facilities or amenities. Most sites are situated within forested areas near water sources, particularly around mountain gaps and along hiking trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail.
Access routes to dispersed sites typically involve dirt roads that may require vehicles with higher clearance, particularly after rain. According to one visitor, "You can drive to the locations on a decent narrow dirt road" at Jones Creek, though conditions vary seasonally. Most areas lack drinking water, toilets, and trash service, requiring campers to pack out all waste and bring necessary supplies. Fires are permitted at many sites including Jones Creek, Justus Creek and Mountain Side Overlook, though always check current fire restrictions. A visitor noted that Indian Grave Gap offers "three campsites in the immediate area" with "creek access" and sites that are "huge" but may have "not a lot of flat ground options."
The camping experience varies by location, with mountain sites offering scenic views and creek-side locations providing water access. Several sites feature proximity to waterfalls and swimming holes, particularly near Dicks Creek Falls where "there is a 3 mile long dirt road to travel on" with "a couple closer to water but most are more remote." Mountain Side Overlook offers "nice firepit, hiking across the way" while Cowrock Mountain provides "wonderfully shaded spots with long range views of the Blue Ridge." Many areas show evidence of heavy use, with one camper noting sites "are well used and has years of careless debris around." Popular areas like Dicks Creek Falls can become crowded during summer months, with one visitor reporting it was "over full" during peak season.
