Best Dispersed Camping near Clayton, GA

Dispersed camping around Clayton, Georgia includes several free primitive sites within Chattahoochee National Forest, with options extending into neighboring North and South Carolina. The area features a collection of undeveloped campsites along forest roads and near waterways, particularly around Soggy Boot Campground, Blue Valley, Falls Creek, and the Tallulah River Road corridor. Most sites require no permits or reservations, following standard National Forest dispersed camping regulations. Campsites typically consist of basic clearings with established fire rings, though they offer no formal amenities or facilities.

Access to many dispersed camping areas requires travel on unpaved forest roads that can deteriorate after rain. Several sites, including Soggy Boot and Falls Creek, demand moderate-clearance vehicles due to rough terrain and occasional water crossings. One review notes that Blue Valley requires navigating "a very primitive gravel road. Pretty rough in some places and very narrow." Most locations lack cell service, drinking water, and toilet facilities. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and campers should practice Leave No Trace principles as trash accumulation has been reported at multiple sites. Pack out all waste and bring sufficient water for your stay.

The region's dispersed sites offer proximity to mountain streams, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. Many campsites sit adjacent to small creeks or rivers, providing natural soundscapes and cooling effects during summer months. According to one visitor, Soggy Boot Campground features "a large clearing with a fire pit and creek surrounded by forest and mountains." However, finding specific sites can be challenging, especially after dark. A camper at Tallulah River Road described the area as "nice but doesn't blow your mind," noting it's "very primitive and if you desperately need toilet facilities, there are a couple of established campgrounds just down the road." Wildlife sightings are common, and the area's elevation provides cooler temperatures even during Georgia's hot summers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Clayton, Georgia (55)

    1. Soggy Boot Campground

    5 Reviews
    Rabun Gap, GA
    7 miles

    "We came looking for this campsite past dark and after a half hour of driving on a gravel road we gave up searching and just parked on the side of the road for the night."

    "Is a little confusing to find but just when you question if you’re heading to the right place, you’re greeted with a fork and small trail down to a massive clearing."

    2. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Highlands, NC
    14 miles
    Website

    "Location is actually about 1.5. Miles further than shown on map. Just keep going. Stayed for a week. About 7 campsites with fire rings. Great trails and people camping near were respectful."

    "Almost all near a creek of some sort. Hiking trails near by. No facilities. Room for larger groups ~40 people max for the biggest site ~6 for the smallest"

    3. Falls Creek

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Decent site(s) near chatooga river. Moderate clearance vehicle required, (or hike it)."

    4. Unicoi Gap Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Rabun Gap, GA
    5 miles

    "Free dispersed primitive camping minutes from Helen Ga and local wineries. Great spot next to the creek. Quiet and any potential neighbors are far enough away that you have total privacy"

    5. Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Otto, NC
    13 miles
    Website

    "You can access this campsite by various means, but do your research and save yourself as many steps, because make no mistake, this is a serious hiking trail (a mile to a mile and a half, depending"

    "This campground is located at the top of Albert Mountain right next to the fire tower. It is along a section of the AT and is a great place to camp for the night."

    6. Mooney Gap Backcountry Group Campsite

    1 Review
    Otto, NC
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "This is a really great group backpacking site near the Mooney gap trailhead and near the AT that is perfect for heading up to the nearby Albert Firetower."

    7. Corbin Creek Tray Mountain

    3 Reviews
    Helen, GA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 745-6928

    "A 4wd with moderate clearance is helpful. Wonderful stream running through the campsite."

    "This is by far my favorite place we’ve been off grid camping. It’s more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles, to get a spot down by the creek."

    8. Tallulah River Rd Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Rabun Gap, GA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 524-6441

    9. Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    4 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "We arrived pretty late, close to midnight after hitting a lot of traffic traveling from Fl."

    "Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet."

    10. Glen Falls Backcountry Campground

    1 Review
    Highlands, NC
    14 miles
    Website

    "The backcountry site is located near the far trailhead at Glen Falls located at the end of a forestry road."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Clayton, GA

116 Reviews of 55 Clayton Campgrounds


  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    Free Camping but Lots of Foot Traffic

    There are two great things about this campsite. It’s free, and it is close to great views of the mountains near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Located off of Highway 215, you do hear road noise, but that is not too much of a problem. During the day, you get a lot of day use hikers since the largest campsite is right beside the trail. There is a large flat area to set your tent if you are lucky enough to be the first one there, and there is a fire pit. Beyond that, there are no facilities. You can hear the sounds of water all night long from Flat Laurel Creek. The last time I was in that area, I tried to cross Flat Laurel Creek over slippery rocks against my better judgment, and the weather was in the upper 30s. I fell, got soaked, and nearly froze to death. This time, it was summer and I learned to cross in my bare feet despite the fact that the rocks were dry this time. The trail eventually takes you to Sam’s Knob, which offers beautiful views, and there is lots of scenery along the way. This campsite is fairly high in elevation, so it gets cool at night. Don’t make the mistake of taking a summer sleeping bag. You could, but you take a chance of being cold even during the peak of summer. This is not a good place for RVs or travel trailers. It is mainly for tent camping even though you do not have to hike in. Just make sure to take water or a water filter. Overall, I recommend this campsite if you are going to hike somewhere else during the day. However, you will not get solitude of any kind here because of all the day hikers.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2020

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Camping with Great Views Close

    Although you can camp just about anywhere in Pisgah National Forest, there are specific sites near the trailhead to Sam Knob. This area is known as Black Balsam. There are no RV sites, and you have to hike about a hundred yards or less to the sites, unless you camp on the bald. The sites had lots of roots, so it was difficult to find a level site without roots all over the area. With that said, it is a good place to camp, and it is just a short walk to the pit toilet, which is also at the trailhead. There are fire pits, but there are no lantern hangers or tent pads. Expect to hear lots of cars and people during the busy months about 200 feet away. Because of that, a better place to stay is at the top of Sam Knob, which you can do. That was a better choice for me since I try to stay away from crowds as much as I can. However, you cannot clear or make a new spot; you have to“find” a spot in which you do not disturb the area. You will need a freestanding tent since you will probably be pitching it on solid rock. 

    The biggest problem with staying on the knob is the weather. Unfortunately, it poured rain and was windy when I was there. I expected it to be windy, but mixed with the rain, it made it unpleasant. Sam Knob is a heather bald, so that gives you a little privacy. However, expect a hikers to end up there since it is a hiking destination and the views are great. 

    Overall, it is a good place to camp, but there will be people close by no matter where you pitch your tent, whether it is a hundred yards from the parking lot or up on top of Sam Knob.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2019

    Glen Falls Backcountry Campground

    Ranger Review: Red Ledge Free Rein Jacket at Glen Falls Backcountry

    Campground Review:

    There are two ways to access this campsite and one definitely requires significantly more sweat (that’s the route we took). The backcountry site is located near the far trailhead at Glen Falls located at the end of a forestry road. We hiked in from the trailhead that most people use to access the falls and continued down the trail past the typical turnaround point until you reach the bottom of the valley. The site is on the nicer side for a backcountry campground as it is level and has multiple areas for tents along with a large fire pit surrounded by logs for sitting on. The main advantage of this site over others in the area is that it is located on the inside of a curve in the river so the creek surrounds almost the entire site giving easy access to water and a relaxing sound to help you sleep at night. The hike down from the upper trailhead is relatively steep and involves going down many (many) stairs but is well worth it for the views of Glen Falls. This is a well-traveled and also well cared for route and we saw many other hikers while we were there. However, most people do not make it all the way down to this site so you will most likely find a significant amount of privacy if you plan on camping here. Since it is National Forest you will have no issues with camping just make sure to follow leave no trace practice and keep your fire under control. I would also highly recommend a dip in the cool waters to help with the heat during the middle of the summer. Overall, this is a beautiful secluded campsite very close to Highlands that provides both tranquility and also some strenuous hiking.

    ...........................

    ****Product Review:** **

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products while out adventuring. At this campground, I stayed dry using the Red Ledge Free Rein Jacket. After multiple rainy hikes and wet campground days some of my favorite features are:

    1. Dryness (obviously): Although it is the main purpose of a raincoat I still want to mention that this design is highly effective at keeping you dry. Not only is the material incredibly water-resistant and all seams are well sealed but it also has a dual closure system in the front to keep every last drop of water away from your body. I also know that this effectiveness will last since my wife has been using a Red Ledge raincoat for many years and only recently did it need a fresh waterproofing treatment. The small touches like a multi-cinching hood and velcro wrist straps make this an incredibly effective raincoat.
    2. Breathability: Where I am hiking in the south breathability is just as important as waterproofing since the heat will often cause you to become wetter from sweat than anything the rain can do. I found that this raincoat although still being hot was significantly more breathable than others I have used with the same rain protection. It has huge armpit zipper openings and several large mesh pockets that can be opened to increase airflow. The only negative I found was that the sizes for men run slightly smaller than usual so the tightness decreased airflow. However, this can be easily solved by getting a size larger than your usual. 
    3. Color Options: One of the things that often frustrates me about men's hiking clothing and gear is that the colors are typically boring and flat. They stick to dull greens and blues or grays and blacks. But not these raincoats! They come in bright reds and greens and many other color options to fit your individual personality. This was a big plus for me and is important if you want to be seen while hiking in areas that allow hunting or don't want to get lost from your hiking partner in a torrential downpour. 

    Overall, for the very reasonable price of these raincoats, they are incredibly effective and comfortable and I would highly recommend seriously considering them for your next raincoat purchase.

  • Kaylee D.
    Apr. 4, 2021

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Absolutely gorgeous!

    Wow! Amazing primitive campsites! Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe). Sites are so spread out it feels like you’re the only one on the lake! Most parking next to campsites could fit camper van or tiny trailer and at the end of the road there is a turn around space if needed; however every site has steps down to the level area (L9 has the longest straight down hill to the lake), so you won’t be parking right next to the site if that is a problem...it wasn’t for me). Just drive carefully( lots of big potholes and blind curves)! Overall, a beautiful area to set up camp (up to 14 days)! I didn’t want to leave.

  • Tony F.
    Aug. 7, 2020

    Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    Very nice, great location

    Really isn't much to this campsite. Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for both tent camping and car camping, which I did. Also, there's a little trail to a waterfall after you go down the old logging road and follow the path across the creek. Very short, very easy about 0.5 mile or less from the creek. Also, very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it a great spot.

  • Kevin S.
    Jun. 4, 2021

    Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    Great overnighter

    Good place for me to overnight, there are no facilities, the entrance is a bit hidden google maps will get you very close look for the small tent sign on your right when headed away from the parkway my nv200 did not have a problem navigating but watch the potholes

  • Sara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2025

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Great but lower your expectations

    We arrived pretty late, close to midnight after hitting a lot of traffic traveling from Fl. The coordinates took us directly here, and upon first arriving we did see a campsite to the left which was being used. Continuing on for about another twenty minutes down a one-way gravel road we did not see anymore sites until the end of the road which has a beautiful sunrise view. There are hundreds of downed trees, I am assuming from Hurricane Helene. Which were chopped up, perfect for a firering.

    We went almost to the end of the road before turning around and just pulling over onto a little 'shoulder' to set up the tent for the night.

    Pros- Dead silent and relaxing Great view of the stars during early spring/late winter

    Cons- Not car accessible (road is narrow and very bumpy. 4x4 recommended but I made it down in a 2x4 fullsize pickup) Have not seen nor heard any creek despite one being in the photos.

    Definitely would come back

  • Natalie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 9, 2024

    Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    Quiet, nice spaces, and clean!

    Such a great find! I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again! Very quiet and clean and the sites are very well laid out and maintained! No hook ups of any kind but it’s worth it! Highway Patrol and Park Rangers patrol pretty frequently so I felt really safe as a solo female. I still took all the safety precautions but didn’t feel as necessary as some.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2021

    Siler Bald Trail Shelter TR 373

    Trail Shelter along the Appalachian Trail

    Siler Bald is not to be confused with Silers Bald, which borders the NC/TN state line in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Siler Bald is actually in the Nantahala National Forest and is close to Wayah Bald along the Appalachian Trail. The shelter is aptly named after the adjacent mountain bald. I first went to Siler Bald many years ago but did not go to the trail shelter. This second time, I did go to the trail shelter, which is about nine-tenths of a mile past the Siler Bald summit if you are hiking north on the Appalachian Trail. If you are hiking from Wayah Bald, it is a little over three and a half miles. Since this is a trail shelter, it does not have electrical hookups. You will need to take a water filtration system for fresh water. Instead of searching for firewood, we used my old Coleman stove for dinner. Surprisingly, there were no other groups in the shelter the night we stayed there. The best things about this trail shelter are its proximity to the Appalachian Trail, the quietness you’ll experience since it is away from major highways, and its proximity to the Siler Bald summit. The summit provides a fantastic 360 degree view since it is a grassy bald, but it is a steep climb from the base to the summit. This is not an RV campground, and you do have to pack everything in(and out). You cannot go to the store to get supplies without hiking a long way, so be prepared. Overall, I loved it because of its peace and solitude.


Guide to Clayton

Dispersed camping near Clayton, Georgia sits at elevations ranging from 2,000-3,500 feet, creating cooler temperatures that often run 10-15°F lower than nearby Atlanta. Many sites cluster along forest roads like Tallulah River Road (FS 70) and Blue Valley Road, requiring moderate ground clearance for access. Several locations feature primitive sites near mountain streams with natural swimming holes.

What to do

Waterfall hikes and swimming: The Glen Falls trail offers multiple waterfall views within a moderate 2-mile round trip. The backcountry campsite at the bottom provides unique access. According to one camper, "The main advantage of this site over others in the area is that it is located on the inside of a curve in the river so the creek surrounds almost the entire site giving easy access to water and a relaxing sound to help you sleep at night."

Stargazing sessions: Tray Mountain sites offer excellent night sky viewing away from light pollution. One visitor notes Corbin Creek Tray Mountain is "worth it if you're into astrophotography as all of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia." Sites here typically require 4WD vehicles with moderate clearance.

Mountain hiking: The Appalachian Trail crosses several access points near dispersed sites. Albert Mountain Firetower offers camping near a lookout tower with panoramic views. A camper reports, "This site is also accessible via car by driving up the forestry road though you will still have to hike in a short way... you can climb up the tower to get an incredible view for either sunrise or sunset."

What campers like

Creek-side camping: Most popular dispersed sites feature water access. At Blue Valley Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy "Beautiful, large, private sites. You couldn't see our site from the road, huge site, lots of woods surrounding for kids to play and explore, right beside a gorgeous large creek." The sites here are approximately 3 miles down an unpaved forest road.

Group-friendly clearings: Several locations accommodate larger gatherings with ample tent space. Mooney Gap Backcountry Group Campsite offers "a really great group backpacking site near the Mooney gap trailhead and near the AT that is perfect for heading up to the nearby Albert Firetower." Sites can accommodate multiple tents with established fire rings.

Weather benefits: The higher elevation provides natural cooling during summer months. A camper at Blue Valley notes they "went in July and it was cool in day and cold at night nice, secluded." Many sites sit under full forest canopy, providing natural shade during hot periods.

What you should know

Access challenges: Forest roads deteriorate quickly after rain. According to reviewers, Blue Valley requires "a very primitive gravel road. Pretty rough in some places and very narrow, let's just say I wouldn't want to end up encountering another car." Most sites require 15-45 minutes of driving on unpaved roads.

Finding specific sites: Coordinates are sometimes inaccurate. A visitor to Soggy Boot Campground shared: "We came looking for this campsite past dark and after a half hour of driving on a gravel road we gave up searching and just parked on the side of the road for the night... the best way to find this location is to put into the GPS the name of the nearby retreat center called 'Ramah Darom'."

Trash issues: Pack out all waste as sites have no facilities. One camper at Soggy Boot noted there was "plenty of space for groups or even just to have some tucked back privacy. Only bad part was there was trash everywhere when we got there."

Tips for camping with families

Flat terrain options: Some sites offer more level ground than others. At Mountain Rest Mountain Top, there's a "great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall." This makes for easier setup with children.

Water play spots: Creeks provide natural entertainment for kids. Corbin Creek features a "wonderful stream running through the campsite," while several Soggy Boot sites are "right by a small waterfall. If you have the place to yourself it is incredibly secluded and a wonderful spot. You can also hike up or down the stream to get to other beautiful small falls that are perfect for swimming in during the hot summers."

Established campgrounds nearby: Free camping areas have few amenities, but developed sites are close. A camper at Tallulah River Road notes it's "very primitive and if you desperately need toilet facilities, there are a couple of established campgrounds just down the road."

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Most free camping near Clayton is suited for smaller rigs only. One Blue Valley camper warns: "I would be a bit concerned with larger rigs on the small road but small RVs or tents are great." Forest roads average 8-10 feet wide with limited turn-around areas.

Road conditions: Vehicle clearance matters more than drive type on many forest roads. At Mountain Rest Mountain Top, a visitor notes: "you dont need 4 wheel drive or a truck like some of these people are saying, i did it fine in my honda civic, just dont have anything with worse clearance than that, and be ready to get some branch scratches which is kinda expected for wood roads."

Creek crossings: Some sites require driving through shallow water. According to one camper, to reach Soggy Boot "you drive or walk through the river and end up in a large group site right by a small waterfall." Water crossings vary seasonally from 3-8 inches deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Clayton, GA?

Dispersed camping sites around Clayton typically offer minimal amenities by design. At Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, you'll find basic picnic tables, fire pits with grills, and level tent areas with lake views and water access for kayaks. Most dispersed sites in the region provide fire rings but lack restrooms, running water, or trash services. Some areas like Tallulah River Rd Dispersed Camping offer scenic locations but require you to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Remember to bring ample water, portable toiletries, and food storage containers for your trip.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Clayton, GA?

Several dispersed camping options exist near Clayton, GA. Glen Falls Backcountry Campground offers secluded sites accessible via forestry roads with beautiful waterfall proximity. For mountain views, consider Corbin Creek Tray Mountain, which provides water access and peaceful surroundings. Other notable options include Mountain Rest Mountain Top for private, elevated sites and Unicoi Gap Dispersed for Appalachian Trail proximity. The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounding Clayton contains numerous unmarked pullouts along forest service roads where dispersed camping is permitted. Motor vehicle use maps from the Forest Service office in Clayton can guide you to legal dispersed camping locations.

What are the rules and regulations for primitive camping in Clayton, GA?

In the Clayton area, primitive camping follows standard National Forest regulations: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, roads, and trails; observe fire restrictions (especially during dry seasons); practice Leave No Trace principles; and limit stays to 14 consecutive days. At Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations required. The Blue Valley Dispersed Camping area requires you to pack out all trash and use existing fire rings only. Check with the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest office for current restrictions, as regulations may change seasonally or during fire bans.