Dillard sits at 2,132 feet elevation in Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, providing campers with cooler summer temperatures that average 8-12 degrees lower than surrounding lowland areas. The region features several waterways including the Tennessee River tributary and Lake Burton where campers can enjoy activities from fly fishing to paddleboarding. Rainfall peaks during July and August with afternoon thunderstorms common.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 1-2 miles one way with varying difficulty levels near Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground. "Lots of hiking trails, 11 miles or so. Great spot for tent camping down below from the RV spots which is nice," explains Natalie B. Tennessee Rock Trail provides mountain views though "it was NOT as easy as we expected. It's narrow and very slippery in spots, with more elevation changes than you expect."
Trout fishing: Year-round access at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground where they "stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older. This park is a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," notes Joshua G. The wildlife here is "beautiful and very abundant" with fishing piers designed for all ages.
Water recreation: Multiple options from tubing to swimming. "The river is perfect for tubing" at River Falls at the Gorge, according to Matt and Tabatha C. The Tallulah River changes daily because "of the dam upstream. Sometimes it's almost a trickle and you can venture out on the huge rocks and other times it's almost a whitewater adventure although still safe for tubing."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Varied options at Sarah's Creek Campground where "most of the sites were VERY secluded. We could see our neighbors in the distance, but not very well," says Rebekah C. The sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and designated tent pads with many positioned along the creek.
Mountain temperatures: Natural cooling at Van Hook Glade where "the temperature here in the hot summer is outstanding... it's 15-20 degrees cooler than elsewhere in the state due to high elevation," notes Jenni P. This makes pet-friendly camping more comfortable during summer months when dogs need relief from heat.
Wildlife viewing: Common sightings in the area include deer, black bears, and various bird species. At Sarah's Creek, Thomas R. reports they "saw blackbear no venomous snakes but did come across a few black racers" during their stay. The wilderness fields behind some campsites provide open areas "where you can see deer grazing on occasion."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Spotty service throughout the region with some campgrounds having none. At Van Hook Glade, "there is no TV or cell service. I drive into Highlands, (about 4 miles) to get a cell signal," explains Tom C. This creates an opportunity to disconnect but requires planning for emergencies.
Road conditions: Challenging access to some sites. Sarah's Creek requires vehicles that "can cross the creek" for sites beyond #15, and the entrance road is "a narrow partially-paved but well-maintained single lane road with only one area to pull over," according to RC S.
Reservation timing: Plan ahead for peak seasons. Devils Fork State Park Campground fills quickly and campers advise to "book your trip a few months in advance, get a spot on the water," as Devin K. suggests. Most dog-friendly campgrounds in the area maintain similar booking timelines.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Designated areas make learning easier at Moccasin Creek where they have "a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older," making it "a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," according to Joshua G.
Swimming options: Multiple locations for water play. Devils Fork State Park Campground offers "fantastic places to swim connected to the campground," notes Danielle L. The water clarity is exceptional with one visitor describing it as "so clear. Site is so clean."
Bathroom facilities: Varying quality across campgrounds. Black Rock Mountain provides "clean bathhouse. Sites are close together, but terraced off because it's very steep terrain," according to Vince M. Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Dillard maintain similar bathroom facilities with regular cleaning schedules.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Measure carefully before booking as many campgrounds have limited space. At Standing Indian Campground, John K. advises that while it's "beautiful" with a "trout stream runs through the park," the road has "a lot of dips and switchbacks" and at least one "very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer."
Utility connections: Check hookup configurations as they vary widely. Willow Valley RV Resort offers full hookups with high-speed internet that many pet owners appreciate. According to Nicole-Marie B., the resort has "Large sites. VERY reasonable rates... Great restrooms and laundry room. Best internet anywhere around."
Leveling challenges: Bring blocks as many campsites require adjustment. At Oconee State Park Campground, Constance O. notes the "campsites are often uneven with a lot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Ranger
