The Cohutta Mountains surrounding Crandall, Georgia rise to elevations of 4,000 feet with densely forested terrain and over 40 inches of annual rainfall. Cabin camping options range from primitive backcountry structures to fully equipped lodges, providing sheltered alternatives during the region's frequent summer thunderstorms and occasional winter snow events. The area's network of mountain streams and established trails creates multiple options for cabin-based adventures.
What to do
Hiking and waterfalls: Fort Mountain State Park provides 25 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. "What a sweet surprise to go camping here. We can't wait to go on more trails and explore everything this park has to offer. The fire tower is a vision..To think that young men came and worked and set every stone step you walk on to get to see the tower is an amazing feat of engineering," notes one visitor about the CCC-constructed tower.
Mountain biking: Mulberry Gap Adventure Basecamp serves as a hub for mountain bikers with direct trail access. A visitor shares: "Been here several times to mountain bike, gravel bike, and hike. Great chilled facility and environment with the absolute friendliest and accommodating staff."
Water recreation: The 17-acre lake at Fort Mountain offers swimming, fishing, and seasonal paddling opportunities. "The lake area - a small 17 acre spring fed lake is here for your fishing, paddling and swimming pleasure. The area also has putt putt, the only playground, seasonal concession and rentals, beach area and a super nice walking trail for everybody," explains one camper who enjoyed the facilities.
Canyon exploration: Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground features dramatic views and hiking trails down to waterfalls. "Unrivaled beauty and adventure... The park can be spoken of in two separate sections; the East Rim and the West Rim. The East Rim is home to several cabins, the group lodge, one of the full service campgrounds, and the main trailhead, as well as the ADA accessible overlook trail which is where many of the iconic photographs of this park come from."
What campers like
Cabin diversity: The variety of cabin camping near Crandall, Georgia ranges from basic to luxurious. At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, "There are also beautiful cabins with lovely views on the mountain side. Most have mountain/forest views and a very few are near the lake. Realize that most of these are on large hills so there will be a nice walk to the lake/recreation area."
Quiet seclusion: Many campers appreciate the privacy of platform cabins. "Our first experience with Cloudland Canyon State Park was on a day hike, and our second was photographing a wedding here—which should set the stage for what type of place this is! There are 16 cottages/cabins, and Georgia State Park cabins really cannot be overstated; they are well appointed, well maintained, and absolutely beautiful, and are spaced out to offer a feeling of seclusion."
Wildlife encounters: The mountains provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "For our camping group, this place was amazing. We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though. The views here? Amazing. Camping? Amazing! The trails are great, and everything feels spread out."
Easy access to attractions: Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA offers cabin options with convenient access to regional attractions. "Stay here every time we visit my husbands family. Nice clean place and pool. Ample camp store if you forgot something. close to many amenities (movie show gasoline and food)."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin camping requires preparation. "We visited this park in early/mid November for 10 days. Keith and I hiked and played hard every day here- despite the early winter storm, gusty breezes and freezing temperatures that finally gave way to beautiful crisp days. The park is rich in history but we are not history buffs so we will leave you to get that info from your friend, Google."
Reservation planning: Many cabin facilities book quickly during peak seasons. At Amicalola Falls State Park Camping, visitors note the combination of cabins and natural features: "This was one of the unexpected highlights of our trip to the Smokey Mountains. Amazing views, good walking/hiking. A bit strenuous climbing the 400+ steps from the base of the waterfall to the top, but well worth it!"
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between cabin locations. At Fort Mountain, campers report: "We had inconsistent cell coverage even with a Winegard booster with AT&T and Verizon. Mornings were best reception and evening were not so good."
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential, especially with cabins. "This particular campsite however was a really great spot for group trips. There are many large campgrounds and it is right on a large river so there is plenty of water to purify and drink. There are also many trails leading in and out from this spot so it gives you flexibility on how you hike in and out."
Tips for camping with families
Platform sites for adventure: The elevated camping platforms offer a unique experience. "I'll be honest. I've never slept outside of a tent. I've always wanted to, but never had the guts to do it. I looked up information on the platforms (also called Squirrel's Nest) on the state park website. It looked doable to me! The description stated it was about 100 yards from the parking area to the platforms."
Cabin locations matter: Choose cabin locations based on family needs. "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."
Recreation planning: Chester Frost Park offers family-friendly amenities near cabin accommodations. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!"
Hiking difficulty levels: Assess trail difficulty when planning with children. "Most trails are moderate to strenuous because of elevation gain and roots/rocks. The Cave tour is a must, but prepare to get dirty."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some cabin and RV sites have drainage challenges. "Very rustic campground. Has water and electric hookups. All of the sites are grass or dirt pads. The bath house is a far distance away from the sites and it is shared with the rafting company's customers. Has a restaurant and bar on site."
Road conditions: Mountain roads can be challenging. "Nice state park with good amenities. Loved the hike and waterfalls. Roads are extremely steep getting to the campground."
Storage solutions: Limited space in cabins requires planning. "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. Beautiful area, my teens loved it."
