Camping options near Cohutta, Georgia offer accessible outdoor recreation within the Chattahoochee National Forest region. Situated at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Cohutta's campgrounds range in elevation from 700 to 1,500 feet with relatively mild temperatures compared to higher mountain areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F while winter lows rarely drop below 30°F, making year-round camping feasible at most rv parks near Cohutta.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple hiking trails near Chilhowee Recreation Area lead to scenic waterfalls within a short distance. "We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking," notes one visitor. The area features 25 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels.
Water recreation: Lakes and rivers provide swimming and fishing opportunities throughout the region. At Diamond Lure Campground, "There's a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc." The campground features "a lake, a beach, and they even have things for dogs! (Dog bath, dog beach, dog park, etc)."
Whitewater rafting: The Ocoee River offers exciting rafting experiences minutes from several campgrounds. "We spent the day hiking the mountain next to rv park. Then went kayaking down the river across the street," reports a camper at Whitewater RV Park. The Ocoee Whitewater Center, site of the 1996 Olympic events, is a popular destination.
What campers like
Mountain views: The higher elevation campgrounds provide scenic landscapes unique to this region. According to one camper at Talona Ridge RV Resort, "We stayed in 'Hawk Valley' which is the lowest level and least expensive section. If we go back we will book an 'Eagle Crest' sight because they have the best views."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the Cohutta area offer more separation between sites than typical commercial parks. At Parksville Lake RV Campground, "The R.V. sites are well shaded and well spaced and many will accommodate large R.V.'s. Several sites offer the opportunity for two R.V.'s to camp close together and some are located along a small stream."
Natural settings: The wooded environments create a more authentic outdoor experience. "The small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds," mentions a visitor to Parksville Lake. Many sites feature creekside locations or mountain views.
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain roads present challenges for larger vehicles at certain campgrounds. One reviewer at Chilhowee notes, "Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving too fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles."
Reservation timing: Spring through fall is peak camping season, requiring advance booking at most locations. During holidays and weekends, campgrounds fill quickly, especially those closest to Chattanooga attractions.
Limited hookups at some sites: Not all campgrounds offer full services at every site. At Hawkins Pointe RV Park, "There are no amenities but they do have a fenced dog park. The sites aren't bad there's just no shrubs or trees or anything. It's just really good gravel and some grass and a picnic table."
Highway noise levels: Proximity to interstates affects sound levels at several parks. One camper at Hawkins Pointe mentioned, "Close to everything. Racing just down the street. That's a positive or negative. On the nights they are racing you hear the cars at the track."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer specific recreational facilities for children. Diamond Lure Campground features "gorgeous, peaceful walking trails that are decorated really well" along with beach areas for swimming.
Consider site layout: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer more spacious sites with room for activities. "We had a great experience at this little campground. There are several sites along a beautiful little creek. It was peaceful, only the occasional car on the nearby road," notes a visitor to Parksville Lake.
Research nearby attractions: The Cohutta region offers numerous family destinations within short driving distance. Chilhowee Recreation Area provides "clean bathrooms with showers, fire rings with grill grates, lots of hiking, hike to a beautiful waterfall, huge lake to swim or float on a raft, and the lightning bugs were breath taking!"
Tips from RVers
Check turning radius requirements: Several campgrounds have tight turns that may challenge larger rigs. "We stayed at site 15 of the B loop. It was a great location, but in the center of the site once stood a large tree with a timber surround. The tree has been cut down, but the surround is still there, and we kept tripping over it," warns a visitor to Chilhowee.
Confirm site length for larger vehicles: RVers with longer rigs should verify space availability. At Parksville Lake, one visitor noted, "We were in 35 foot trailer but some tight turns in camp ground. If large rig then call for advice on site."
Verify hookup locations: Hookup placement varies between rv parks near Cohutta. "The utilities are at the middle of the pad so you can adjust according to your needs. The water pressure was good at around 50 psi," reports a camper at Talona Ridge, while others mentioned varying pressure at different sites.
Consider Wi-Fi needs: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We got 4 bars on Verizon and the CG WiFi was above average for a park of this size," notes a visitor to Talona Ridge, while at Chilhowee Recreation Area, "there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says."
