The Chickamauga, Georgia area offers equestrian camping in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet. The Cohutta Wilderness contains over 40,000 acres of protected forest with an extensive network of horse trails crossing multiple creek systems. Most horse campgrounds remain open year-round but experience peak usage during spring and fall when temperatures average 65-75°F during daylight hours.
What to do
Creek swimming spots: Near Hickey Gap Campground, visitors can enjoy natural swimming areas. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" reports John B. The creek offers relief during warmer months.
Fishing opportunities: Tennessee Wall Camp provides access to multiple fishing spots along waterways. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water," notes Suzie K. The fishing areas remain accessible even during low water conditions.
Spelunking adventures: The cave systems near Sawmill Lake Campsite attract those interested in underground exploration. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," shares Lisa, highlighting the proximity to cave systems.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Jacks River Fields Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion. "We love this campsite! The first time we camped here, we were the only ones at the whole site. The most recent time, there were just two other couples so it was still very low key," reports Liz B. The campground rarely fills to capacity even during weekends.
Fire pit availability: Multiple established fire rings allow for proper containment of campfires. "Great sites with fire pits," notes Lakisha D. about Tennessee Wall Camp. At Sawmill Lake Campsite, Mitchell M. mentions, "There are several man-made fire pits, and plenty of wood and brush lying around to scavenge for fire-making."
Level camping areas: Horse owners particularly value the flat terrain at many sites. "Level spots with picnic tables. Not directly on the river but is accessible. A lot of equestrians stay here but anyone can," writes Bob P. about Cottonwood Patch Campground. The level ground makes setting up camp easier for both tent campers and those with horses.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require vehicles with adequate clearance. Abigail P. notes about Sawmill Lake Campsite: "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times."
Trail signage limitations: Some trail markers can be confusing or difficult to follow. At the Walls of Jericho, Aaron S. warns, "The trail is full of switchbacks. There are tree markers on the trail to mark the turns but at times they are easy to lose. There are also some random trees marked that are not on the trail."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. Nathan T. mentions regarding Mountain Cove Resort: "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Certain campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Mickey L. notes about Gee Creek Campground: "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Kids can observe local fauna in natural settings. During spring months, frog and salamander populations flourish near creek edges. "We saw a couple go out on an inflatable boat," Tessa B. mentions regarding Davis Pond, indicating opportunities for wildlife spotting from the water.
Bathroom facility considerations: Restroom conditions vary widely between campgrounds. Tessa B. observes about Davis Pond: "I took off a star because the bathroom looks like an actual third world country, covered in trash and bugs and who knows what else." Plan accordingly with sanitation supplies when visiting more remote areas.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: RV access can be challenging on certain forest roads. Sierra Y. advises about Sawmill Lake Campsite: "I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. There were a few people that stayed in a tent for a night or two here and there, but I didn't see any other RV/Campers so every spot was open."
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds prioritize space for trailers over hookups. Horse-focused sites like Cottonwood Patch Campground lack electrical connections but provide adequate space for larger vehicles and trailers.
Weather considerations: RVers should monitor forecasts closely. "Trees fall easily so if it's windy be careful where you park," warns Sierra Y. about camping at Sawmill Lake Campsite. The combination of mountain terrain and seasonal storms can create hazardous conditions for larger vehicles.
