Dispersed camping options near Crandall, Georgia span across the Cohutta Wilderness Management Area at elevations reaching 4,000 feet. The region sits on the western edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains with camping areas positioned at various elevations from riverside sites at 1,500 feet to mountain lake camping at over 3,500 feet. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer daytime temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler nights.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1-3 miles round-trip. At Lake Conasauga, nearby trails lead to several falls. "There are endless trails in the area, a few waterfalls, and overlooks," notes michelle J. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas," adds John B. from Hickey Gap.
Mountain biking: 25+ miles of trails. The Chilhowee Recreation Area provides extensive riding options. "Some hiking trails were cleared well, and others were overgrown. Benton falls was great, but crowded. For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls," suggests Manie D. The area connects to numerous forest service roads suitable for beginners and intermediate riders.
Kayak fishing: Best during weekdays. The lakes and rivers around Crandall offer excellent fishing. "The lake is full of bass and brim and is perfect for kayak fishing," says Colben F. about Lake Conasauga. Most waterways have limited boat traffic during weekdays, allowing for quieter fishing experiences.
What campers like
Remote locations with dark skies: The Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area offers unobstructed night sky viewing. "This is one of my favorite types of spots: remote, little light pollution, and deep in the mountains. I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way," shares Tyler J. Several campers note the area is ideal for astrophotography.
Creek-side tent spots: Primitive sites along water features are common. "Each site has a table, tent pad, and firering with grate," Darrell N. explains about Hickey Gap. "Nice small campground with 5 sites. Fills up during hunting season. Can't beat the peaceful sounds of the creek and nature at its finest!" adds Bobbi Jo P.
Higher elevation campsites: Summer temperatures are cooler at higher elevations. "Top of the Hill. If you love twisty roads and beautiful views This is the place," Larry M. shares about Fort Mountain State Park. The higher campsites typically have fewer insects and better breezes during summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Gravel access roads can be challenging, particularly after rain. "It took us about 45 minute drive up a gravel road, up the mountain, you come to a campground around a lake," explains Kelly N. about accessing Lake Conasauga. Another camper notes, "The road up is beautiful and we cruised around and got to see how beautiful the area was."
Wildlife awareness is essential: Bears are active throughout the Cohutta Wilderness. At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," reports Shelly C. Multiple campgrounds have bear-proof storage systems or recommend keeping food in vehicles.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most dispersed camping locations lack amenities. "No amenities. Lake Conasauga is nearby which has some amenities," notes Roy B. about Ball Field Dispersed Area. "The bathroom was borderline unusable for anything other than the worst of emergencies and even then I would prefer to venture off into the woods and take my chances," adds Nate H. about Hickey Gap.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots for kids: Several areas offer safe swimming. "There is a lake to fish in, and we walked the trail around it every day," says michelle J. about Lake Conasauga. At Doll Mountain Campground, "We had a nice view of the lake and even went for a swim right from our campsite," shares Randall M.
Playground access: Some established campgrounds include play areas. "Wonderful hiking trails with many mountain views. Campgrounds are very family friendly and clean. The little lake is a nice adventure too!" Dana R. writes about Fort Mountain State Park. Consider established campgrounds with facilities for younger children.
Private camping areas: Several sites offer separation from neighboring campers. "We chose Fort Mountain for the variety of camping options they had, specifically the platform sites. As one of our primary requirements for camping is privacy and a place our kids can run around without bothering anyone else, having a place slightly off the main road sounded perfect--and it was," reports Stephanie J.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most campgrounds near Crandall have size restrictions. "This campground is higher up in elevation in relation to the region. We stayed in a tent site that had a nice trail to the lake which was rocky with no beach but fun for older kids to swim," explains Anna R. about Woodring Campground. The gravel roads limit accessibility for larger RVs.
Site selection challenges: Finding level sites can be difficult. "The park is nice with plenty of amenities. I had two complaints. We stayed creekside at site 24. The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level," shares Mike N. about Fort Mountain State Park.
Utility availability varies: Water and power hookups aren't available at all locations. "All sites are 30/50 amp with water. Grey water drains are located around the campground. There is a dump station," explains Travyl Couple about Fort Mountain State Park. Most primitive sites have no hookups, while established campgrounds typically offer at least electrical connections.
