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Camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

1,850 Reviews

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest provides diverse camping experiences across north Georgia with options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Amicalola Falls State Park offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, while Vogel State Park Campground provides electric hookups and water access in the mountains near Blairsville. Several campgrounds in the area feature waterfront settings, such as Duckett Mill and Bolding Mill on Lake Lanier, allowing for fishing and boating opportunities alongside camping amenities.

Road conditions and facilities vary significantly throughout the region, with some campgrounds requiring advance planning for access. Most developed areas remain open year-round, though certain facilities like Duckett Mill operate seasonally from March to September. A camper noted, "The sites go along a single path that winds away from the Appalachian Trail. If I would have walked further back earlier that is where I would camp." Weather considerations impact camping experiences, particularly at higher elevations where temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months. Cell service becomes limited in more remote areas, especially in the mountainous terrain of the Chattahoochee National Forest where dispersed camping options increase.

Waterfront camping opportunities receive consistently high ratings from visitors seeking both recreation and relaxation. Along Lake Lanier and mountain streams, several campgrounds provide direct water access, with fishing and swimming being popular activities. A recent review mentioned that "this river is amazing, low current makes it easy to walk in and there are a few little water falls we enjoyed hanging on for a bit." Hiking trails connect many camping areas to natural attractions, including the impressive 730-foot Amicalola Falls, which one visitor described as "absolutely worth it" despite the strenuous climb. Campgrounds near the Appalachian Trail serve as convenient basecamps for day hikers and through-hikers alike. During peak summer weekends and fall foliage season, campgrounds throughout the forest tend to fill quickly, particularly those with electrical hookups and shower facilities.

Map showing campgrounds near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GeorgiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (479)

    1. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    60 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 265-4703

    "It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."

    "If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."

    2. Vogel State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Suches, GA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 745-2628

    $30 - $290 / night

    "Vogel State Park was perfectly situated along Hwy 19 in the north Georgia mountains for an easy spot for the night."

    "Vogel State Park is hands down one of the nicest parks in Georgia. It has great hiking trails for every level of hiker, and a very beautiful lake that's great for fishing and paddling."

    3. Bolding Mill

    21 Reviews
    Murrayville, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 534-6960

    $20 - $36 / night

    "It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."

    "Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"

    4. Don Carter State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Lula, GA
    21 miles
    +1 (678) 450-7726

    $25 - $225 / night

    "Situated at the far north end of Lake Lanier, this Georgia state park is awesome! One of the best things about it for RV/trailer camping is the huge distance between camp sites!"

    "This Georgia State Park is in Gainesville on the Chattahoochee where it meets up with Lake Lanier.  It was very easy to get to from the Atlanta area. "

    5. Three Forks Campground

    10 Reviews
    Suches, GA
    12 miles
    Website

    "All of the sites are situated along a creek, and a fair distance from each other (most sites you drive between) and off the road."

    "Campground Review: Let me begin by specifying that there are two different Three Forks areas in Northh Georgia. One is on the Appalachian Trail and One is near Clayton, Georgia."

    6. Duckett Mill

    18 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 532-9802

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times."

    "Great location on Lake Lanier. The sites are very large and trees between most sites. Lots of water view sites, some have easier lake access from your site than others for our kayaks."

    7. Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    51 Reviews
    Helen, GA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 878-2201

    "The tent camp site was good, bathrooms and water were a close walking distance.
    We picked this state park for all the activities. We took archery lessons and did the zip line course."

    "Nestled in pristine North Georgia mountains. Good for single, family or even group campers. Close to a wonderful Bavarian town know as Helen Georgia."

    8. Raven Cliff Falls

    28 Reviews
    Helen, GA
    22 miles
    Website

    "There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends. There is water and bathroom access."

    "Raven Cliff Falls is another popular spot in Northeast Georgia. Its on one one of the most scenic highways and s in a great location if you want to venture into Helen, Brasstown, Bald, or Hiawassee."

    9. Cooper Creek

    14 Reviews
    Suches, GA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 695-6736

    "Although the dirt road that led to the campground was a bit sketchy if you're not use to mountain driving, it is very well maintained as well. The fishing was great too."

    "The camping spots are spacious and everyone has easy access to the creeks."

    10. Bald Ridge Creek

    23 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 889-1591

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"

    "It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."

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Recent Camping Photos near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

742 Photos of 479 Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

1850 Reviews of 479 Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Campgrounds

  • Jennifer M.
    Nov. 1, 2025

    Dicks Creek Falls Campsites off Main Road

    perfectly scenic

    The winding road to the few campgrounds along the way was beautiful but narrow. We didn't see any potties and it ends with a sandy area at the water where about 6 cars were parked (perhaps they were all kayaking or hiking but we only saw two people. We backtracked a bit to a site along the stream with ample space for at least two or three tents. It was along the road and there were a few cars driving past during the night but not enough to bother us or make us feel unsafe at all. There was a trail at this site as well just on the other side of the water which went a few miles around to the road and looped back but it hadn't been maintained in a bit so there was a decent amount of climbing and exploration on our part to stay on it. Wouldn't advise without good trail maps on your phone.

  • tonya O.
    Oct. 29, 2025

    Lake Russell Recreation Area

    This campground has went down

    Weve always came here but our last experience wasn't great... since Rhonda has been gone this campground has gone down so bad. I was so disappointed in this... the bathrooms was so nasty and the camp host i went to wouldn't come to the door... I had to call police on a unruly camper and still didnt help..... we went to relax and had a weekend from hell.

  • j
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    Great central location.

    I camp at Unicoi State Park several times a year for a number of different reasons. First, it is right in the middle of what I call waterfall country. There are more beautiful waterfalls within an hour than I can count. Second, there are spectacularly beautiful trails everywhere. You’re only about 20 minutes from the Appalachian Trail at Hog Pen Gap and 30 minutes from Blood Mountain and the Blood Mountain wilderness. Third, there are numerous picturesque and friendly little towns nearby. The park is about 3 miles from the town of Helen, which is a pseudo Bavarian village. A little touristy but still fun. There are some great German restaurants there. As to the park itself, I tent camp, and the campsites are excellent. Nice bathroom and shower facilities close by and regardless of the time of year it has never been crowded. Definitely worth $25 a night and I get a discount because I’m a senior (Remember you have to ask for the discount. They won’t tell you). If you are camping in the tent area, I can almost guarantee you’ll see a bear because they come out almost every night. Keep all of your food in the bear boxes. Since it is somewhat of a resort park, there are cabins, RV hook ups and even a motel/conference center. There are lots of activities like swimming, boating, archery, zip lining, etc. The Smith Creek pub is a nice little restaurant for a quick meal or a drink.

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Quick fall foliage trip

    The park is absolutely beautiful, great scenery and hiking trails. The visitors center is nice, but the helpfulness of the staff was hit or miss. The campsite is nice, quiet, clean bathrooms and warm showers. We camped in a tent and the ground was hard, almost like cement which made staking the tent down difficult. Other than this, we loved it and would come back again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Fern Cove — Black Rock Mountain State Park

    Beautiful park but steep slope up

    Black Rock is beautiful but hard on some transmissions. There is a long steep slope up the mountain and it is common for transmissions to over heat. So much so that there is an auto shop at the base of the mountain. The road up is narrow and twisty. I have seen some larger rigs up here but most are smaller. If u can make it, it is worth the journey. Lots of hiking trails for different levels. Clean facilities, friendly hosts. WiFi is available at the trading post. Nice place to sit and rock.incredible views. Have visited in April, may, June, and October. Usually stay on site 6. Later spring into summer had more poison ivy on trails.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    Red top mountain state park

    Plenty of campsites, some on the lake. RV, tents, yurts. Spaces 1-12 are especially nice since they are spacious and can handle class A and 5th wheelers. All 12 have water electric and sewer. We have a class C and prefer 1-12 because there is plenty of space between sites.

  • Kayla D.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bald Ridge Creek

    It’s a NO from us

    I wanted to wait a few days before writing this review — truthfully, I wanted to wait until after we checked out. I dreaded the retribution of Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Farmer, the campground manager, which I was sure would follow.

    Our church group had been looking forward to this camping trip for nearly a year. I’ve personally camped at Bald Ridge Creek Campground many times and never had a single issue — until now. Our church typically takes two group trips a year at another Forsyth County campground, but this year, we decided to rent nine sites at Bald Ridge. Even Cindy seemed excited that we were coming!

    We’re a Baptist group — not exactly known for our wild nights. We sing, we fellowship, and we’re back in our campers by 10 p.m. But according to “Queen Cindy,” you’d think we were a pack of college kids throwing keg parties.

    Our crime? An evening of worship and fellowship — a small keyboard, a guitar, and around 50 people spread over three campsites for a couple of hours each night. Cindy declared it an “event” (apparently forbidden) and told us we couldn’t do it again and threatened to make us all leave. She also banned us from eating together — saying we could gather while serving food but had to disperse to our own campsites immediately once we got our plates.

    The only actual rule violation came from one site where a tent wasn’t put up right away. Cindy seized on that excuse to call dispatch and have three sheriff’s deputies sent to “deal with” our peaceful group of families, children, and worshipers.

    To their credit, the deputies couldn’t have been kinder, yet embarrassed that they even had to be there. They laughed at the situation, noting they’re called out to the campground frequently because of Cindy’s pettiness and made-up rules. They said our little keyboard — which Cindy had described like it was a baby grand piano — was no problem at all. They simply advised us to set up the tent and let her stomp it out.

    Cindy even claimed that someone had called the Corps of Engineers to report us — at 7:00 p.m., during the government shutdown, when the office wasn’t even open. 🙄

    For context, Cindy lives at the campground for free as part of her role as host. It’s time for someone new to take over. She also wears a body camera and records campers (which is legal, I know), but as a county employee, those recordings are public record.

    We’ll continue to pray without ceasing for her — that the Lord softens her heart. But until then, I can’t recommend Bald Ridge Creek Campground to anyone who values fair treatment, hospitality, or simple human kindness.

Guide to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. From serene lakes to hiking trails, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "The park is very beautiful and a hiker's paradise. Several trails and waterfalls, for example, the AT, are nearby."
  • Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing or boating at places like Moccasin Creek State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "The dock and the fishing were very nice and great areas to go boating close by."
  • Visit Waterfalls: Don’t miss the stunning waterfalls in the area. One camper shared, "The hike itself was beautiful... I would personally hike to the halfway point to the small waterfall just over a mile in."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. A review for Vogel State Park Campground states, "Overall, the campground is very well maintained and looks newly refurbished."
  • Secluded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy of the campsites. A visitor at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping mentioned, "The spaces are well-spaced and feel secluded despite mostly open air."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Don Carter State Park Campground said, "Clean and well-maintained including the facilities."

What you should know:

  • Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that can be tricky for larger vehicles. A camper at Unicoi State Park & Lodge noted, "The roads are rather narrow for two-way traffic."
  • Limited Privacy: Campsites can be close together, which might not suit everyone. A visitor at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The tent campsites and RV sites are extremely close together so there is not any privacy from your other campers."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Sweetwater Campground is open from March 15 to September 7.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One reviewer at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping mentioned, "Zip line, archery, and plenty of other activities."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campsites that offer more space for kids to play. A camper at Doll Mountain Campground said, "The sites are private and not on top of each other, which is nice."
  • Plan for Rain: Be prepared for wet weather. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground noted, "Unfortunately, it rained the whole time we were there, so we didn't get to explore the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Don Carter State Park Campground mentioned, "Has grey tank hookup which is nice."
  • Be Mindful of Site Size: Some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Shady Grove Campground advised, "If you’re around 40’, you’ll fit - but anything over probably would not."
  • Arrive Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A visitor at Bald Ridge Creek noted, "Reservations must be made online... it can be tricky but well worth the work."

Camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 479 campgrounds and RV parks near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and 38 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is Amicalola Falls State Park Camping with a 4.7-star rating from 60 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?

What parks are near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest that allow camping, notably Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests and Lake Sidney Lanier.

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