The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest spans nearly 867,000 acres across north Georgia, with elevations ranging from 700 to 4,784 feet at Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest point. Forest camping areas typically experience mild springs and falls, with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F during the day and 60-70°F at night. The forest contains over 850 miles of recreation trails crossing mountain streams that remain cool even during summer months.
What to do
Explore waterfall trails: Cooper Creek Recreation Area offers excellent access to nearby waterfall hikes. "There are hiking trails, geocaches, a beach area, picnic shelters, cottages and a brand new equestrian trail system!" notes a visitor to Don Carter State Park.
Fish for trout: The cool mountain streams in the forest are ideal for trout fishing. "Located in the Chatahoochee National Forest, this campground is primitive, but there are outhouses. The creek is very peaceful and well stocked with trout, along with some natives, but mostly stocked fish," explains a visitor to Cooper Creek.
Kayak on Lake Lanier: Several campgrounds provide easy lake access. "Almost all of the campsites have the best lake views and you can do pretty much anything on the lake! Great place for the whole family!" reports a camper at Bolding Mill.
What campers like
Tent site privacy: Vogel State Park offers secluded spots for tent campers. "We choose the walk in as the parking was still really close but there are only two of these sites. The creek runs right next to them and it was so peaceful and beautiful," shares a camper at Vogel State Park Campground.
Mountain views: The higher elevation campgrounds provide scenic vistas. "We chose a very strenuous trail that delivered on the promise of a beautiful vista looking down on the park and campground," notes another Vogel State Park visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds in this region offer excellent wildlife observation chances. "Beautiful site, my teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth," reports a visitor to Amicalola Falls State Park Camping.
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Some campgrounds limit facilities in cooler months. "Primitive-no running water in winter so pack that in. Fire pits have a swivel grill, ideal to cook with the cast iron over the fire," advises a Cooper Creek camper.
Road conditions: Forest access roads can be challenging for certain vehicles. "The dirt road that led to the campground was a bit sketchy if you're not use to mountain driving, it is well maintained," notes a Cooper Creek visitor.
Cell service limitations: Many dog friendly campgrounds in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest have limited connectivity. "Great place to take the kids. It was secluded which meant no cell service. Something to call out for an emergency would be great," reports a Cooper Creek camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake," explains a visitor to Unicoi State Park & Lodge.
Educational wildlife opportunities: The forest offers many chances to learn about local ecosystems. "We camped at spot 97... A lot of deer just walking around. They are firm on making sure pet owners have their leash on and do not free roam," notes a visitor to Shady Grove Campground.
Water safety considerations: Some lake areas have designated swimming zones. "The swimming part of the lake has a small beach with sand and the lake is roped off for swimming," reports a Unicoi State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection for larger rigs: Not all forest campgrounds accommodate big rigs. "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper," advises a visitor to Bolding Mill.
Grade considerations: Some forest campgrounds have steep entrance roads. "I read a lot before my trip, so I knew to except the 25% grade incline going up to the campground. I wasn't however expecting the challenging parking in the campsite," mentions an Amicalola Falls camper.
Dump station access: Campground dump stations vary in quality and ease of use. "Very nice wooded campground on Lake Lanier, very spacious sites, many on the lake. Water and electric with a dump station. Dump station very easy to get into," reports a Shady Grove Campground visitor.
