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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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!"
Tips from RVers
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."
