Dispersed camping opportunities surround Carters Lake in northern Georgia, with several free primitive sites available in the nearby Cohutta Wilderness and Wildlife Management Areas. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area offers a large open field that accommodates multiple camping groups with established fire rings. SongBird Trail Camp provides basic amenities including picnic tables and trash collection. Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain WMA features tent and RV-suitable sites with fire permissions.
Access to most dispersed sites requires travel on Forest Service roads with varying conditions. According to reviews, "This area is fairly remote and the rough gravel forest service roads are best traveled by a higher clearance vehicle." Vehicles with standard clearance can navigate most roads with caution, but deep potholes may present challenges for low-clearance vehicles. GPS directions can be unreliable; watch for wooden signs indicating public land access.
These sites are located in bear country, requiring proper food storage and waste management. Campers report occasional bear sightings near camping areas. Cell service ranges from intermittent to nonexistent, with most locations offering one bar at best. Pack all necessary supplies, as drinking water is not available at dispersed sites. Several campers noted that Lake Conasauga Campground, approximately one mile from Ball Field, offers facilities for a $5 fee.
Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings, though fire regulations vary seasonally. The area offers excellent hiking opportunities, with trailheads for Emery Creek Trail and Tearbritches Trail accessible from Ball Field. The Tearbritches Trail leads to Bald Mountain (elevation 4,005 feet) and continues to the Conasauga River. Creek access at many sites provides opportunities for wading, fishing, and water collection for filtration.
"This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. GPS is 34.86064073010609,-84.63659794105651. (Photos and this review are from my last stay here on 31 Oct- 02 Nov 2021.) "
"This is a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers (Emery Creek Trail and Tear Britches Trail both have trailheads here) and Overlanders (site is on"
"Nice firepit, hiking across the way. 4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some."
"Great location small river but absolutely NO Cell service of any kind."
"This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls. Camping is primitive as back country can be but worth the trek."
"Obviously very close to the river to filter water from. We didn't see any wildlife at this site, but we did see a copperhead at another earlier in the trip, so be aware!"
"Remote but could see being busy during warmer seasons. We loved it."
"Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."
"A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn’t recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
"GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is. The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks."
"Right on the river and pit toilets close by."
"Dont park where the map tells you, you can drive to the locations on a decent narrow dirt road. When we first arrived, the camp site we chose was on the river, but also off the main road."
"This is a great off grid camping spot along a creek. There are about 7 spots here with most of them each able to hold multiple vehicles and set ups."
"Nice spot next to a cool little creek."
TravelerNice place but you gotta have a land pass or a hunting or fishing license to camp here. Access is easy to get in here. AT&T signal is good so this is very doable except it’s not free. To camp here for three days cost me 20 bucks.
ScoutPulled in the middle grassy area to get full sun on my solar panels. I actually found a perfectly level spot even with leaving my truck hooked up. I came here via Mill Creek Road to Cowpen Road, made the first 6 miles in 2WD towing my 5700 lb MDC camper. At the hairpin turn at Cowpen Road I had to engage the 4WD High and manually shifting 1st to 2nd for towing. I didn't air down and my Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tires didn't break loose in any of the gravel or rocks, but it was dry conditions, just slightly wet. Great spot and as quiet as it can get in nature. I'm leaving today and planning to try the other way out, going right it's less unpaved gravel, but either way out it should be downhill and easier than getting here.
GuideOff the road trail leading up to Appalachian trail and incredible view. Very steep rocky switchbacks towards the top. Dispersed sites above the view, decent large spot near vault toilet.
GuideHopefully they open it up soon but we drove about an hour to get here just for it to be closed. The whole road seems to be closed for the time being for road work. I hope this helps someone!.
The 5-8 miles up to this area do seem a little sketchy but we were hoping the actually site would be nice and hopefully it will be after the work they are doing right now.
GuideAbout 5 dispersed spots scattered along an accessible road. Only about 3 spots available that hasn’t been ruined from trash and belongings from people that was staying there long term and left everything. Okay for an overnight stay. All the trash really ruined any vibe to be had. I stayed at the spot on top of the steep hill
GuideNice spot next to a cool little creek. There was a good bit of trash in several of the fire rings, and found human waste and toilet paper about 5 feet from the waterline between a camp and the water, that was pretty disappointing. Leave no trace!! This includes hiking away from camp to bury your business. We still really enjoyed our stay. The road in was a little rougher than onX off-road let on, but had no issues getting in with my 4x4. Lots of wildlife, we even saw a bear a few minutes from camp.
ScoutGreat location small river but absolutely NO Cell service of any kind.
TravelerThis spot is gorgeous, clean, and a must stop if you're in the area. Orange-ish beaches with a stunning blue green lake full of life. On a clear night, the sky is crystal and shining with all the stars you can imagine. Highly recommend buying wood for campfires though.
TravelerMultiple creekside spots for large groups. We have over 12 adults and 8-9 cars. No cell service. Dog friendly.
Dispersed camping near Carters Lake offers varied terrain throughout the Chattahoochee National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet. Free primitive campsites in this North Georgia region feature a mix of forest floor and open field settings, with summer temperatures typically averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
Night sky viewing: Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area provides exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. According to one camper, "This is one of my favorite types of spots: remote, little light pollution, and deep in the mountains. I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way. Go here on a new moon night in the summer and you're sure to have a great night of uninterrupted beauty!"
Creek fishing and wading: Jones Creek Dispersed Campground offers direct access to water activities 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 a visitor. Bring lightweight water shoes for rocky creek beds.
Wildlife observation: Lost Creek in Cherokee National Forest sits in an area known for diverse bird species and small mammals. A camper describes it as "Super quiet when we were there in March. Nice creek view through the side of the campground. Many places to explore on bike or hiking. Super remote area."
Group gathering spaces: Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area provides ample room for multiple groups with an open layout. A camper notes, "This is a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers and Overlanders. There are multiple fire rings established around the field and this field can handle many groups."
Creek sounds for sleeping: At Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, campers appreciate the natural white noise. "This is a great spot in the river. Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilet and all you hear is the river at night. No cell service and its first come first served for a spot," shares one visitor.
Basic but useful amenities: Some free camping areas near Carters Lake include concrete picnic tables and established tent platforms. A Lost Creek visitor explains, "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform. Some have direct access to the creek. Great hikes around and good place to fish and hunt."
Vehicle considerations: Many free camping sites around Carters Lake require driving on forest service roads with challenging conditions. A review of Hidden Creek Campground cautions, "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road 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."
Navigation challenges: GPS reliability varies throughout the area. One camper at Hidden Creek notes, "GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is." Look for wooden signage indicating public land access.
Weekend popularity: Free camping spots fill quickly, especially in summer. A visitor to the Conasauga River area observes, "Can be crowded on the weekends. Right on the river and pit toilets close by." Arriving midweek improves your chances of finding available sites.
Water play opportunities: Conasauga River Camp offers safe water access for children. A camper reports, "Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends." Bring water shoes for rocky creek bottoms.
Teenager-friendly challenge: Jack's River Falls Trail provides an opportunity for older children to test their backpacking skills. A parent shares, "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls. Camping is primitive as back country can be but worth the trek."
Wildlife education: Bear safety education is essential when camping with children in this region. Pack food in sealed containers and teach proper food storage. When visiting SongBird Trail Camp, one camper noted the peaceful setting is ideal for nature education: "This area will speak for itself once you arrive. It's very peaceful and calming, beautiful hikes, pretty nature, and great memories!"
Site selection for leveling: At Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area, RVers should scout for level areas. A visitor notes, "Nice firepit, hiking across the way. 4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some." Bring leveling blocks even for smaller rigs.
Preparation for isolation: When planning free camping near Carters Lake in an RV, prepare for limited services. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area has "no water or facilities here, but you can go down to the Lake Conasauga Campground about a mile away and use their facilities for a $5 fee." Arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks.
Access road assessment: Before committing to a forest road with your RV, consider walking ahead to scout conditions. One Hidden Creek Campground visitor explains, "A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available for dispersed camping around Carters Lake?
Dispersed camping around Carters Lake is typically primitive with minimal amenities. Creekside Camp offers flat campsites adjacent to a creek but no picnic tables or pit toilets. At Blue Hole Dispersed, you'll find decent campsites with no electricity or running water, but they do offer handicap-accessible areas for RV dispersed camping. Most sites in the region feature established fire rings, though you should bring all your own supplies including water, food, toilet paper, and waste disposal bags. Cell service is generally spotty throughout the area.
Where can I find free dispersed camping at Carters Lake in Georgia?
While Carters Lake itself has limited dispersed camping, several nearby free options exist in the surrounding area. Hidden Creek Campground offers solid free campsites, though be aware of potholes if driving a low-clearance vehicle. GPS directions can be imprecise, sometimes leading to private property, so look for wooden signage. For alternatives, consider Jones Creek Dispersed Campground which features riverside sites accessible via a narrow dirt road. Always check local regulations as dispersed camping rules may change seasonally.
When is the best season for dispersed camping at Carters Lake, Georgia?
Spring and fall offer the best conditions for dispersed camping around Carters Lake. At Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area, campers report enjoyable experiences across all four seasons, though spring provides flowing creeks and wildflowers, while fall delivers spectacular foliage. Summer can be hot and humid with increased insect activity. At Dicks Creek Falls Campsites, the proximity to water makes summer bearable, but weekends get crowded. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations where freezing conditions are common.
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