Best Dispersed Camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Several dispersed camping areas dot the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest for campers who prefer basic, primitive sites away from crowds. Jones Creek Dispersed Campground sits along a river where the sound of water makes for good sleeping. Campers who like waterfalls can set up at Helton Creek Falls Camp with its forest backdrop. Getting to Hightower Gap Camp requires driving forest roads that need vehicles with good clearance, especially after rain. Since these spots have no facilities, you'll need to bring everything and take your trash with you when you leave. When setting up camp, stay at least 200 feet from any water sources to protect streams and rivers. The forest has a 14-day limit on camping to give everyone a chance to use these areas. Before lighting any fires, check if there are current fire bans, which change throughout the year. Bears live throughout the forest, so hang your food from trees or use bear containers to avoid problems. With no bathrooms or water sources, you'll need to plan for these basics before heading out. The extra preparation pays off with quiet, natural camping spots few people visit. You can find sites under thick tree cover for shade or in clearings with good views of the night sky. Weather can change quickly in these mountains, so pack for both warm and cool conditions. During rainy periods, many of these roads become muddy or impassable, so call the ranger station about road conditions before driving out.
