The Nantahala and Chattahoochee National Forests surrounding Dillard, Georgia create a diverse camping environment at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. Weather patterns shift quickly in these mountains, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby Atlanta. Several campgrounds feature improved fire rings with cooking grates, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: The Burrells Ford area offers excellent trout fishing access along the Chattooga River. "Good amount of camping with a short hike in. Sites are right on the Chatooga River. This river is stoked with trout. Fishing license is required but both SC and GA are acceptable as the river is the state line," notes Jason D.
Waterfall hiking: Several trailheads near the best tent camping near Dillard provide routes to notable waterfalls within 1-3 miles. At Grapevine campground, you'll find "great hiking nearby! I always enjoy doing the nature loop. It is great for all ages. My favorite time of year to come is late spring/summer when all the flowers are in bloom," shares Ashley W.
Swimming holes: Many camping areas feature natural swimming spots ideal for cooling off during warmer months. "Great for swimming and Hammocking!" reports Elise W. about Burrells Ford, while another camper notes that Blue Valley offers "wonderful creek/river by every campsite."
What Campers Like
Secluded sites: The Blue Valley Dispersed Camping area provides privacy between campsites. "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," explains Kristin S.
Water proximity: Nearly all tent camping options near Dillard feature creekside or riverside locations. "We love camping here! Spacious campsites (they have small picnic table and fire ring)," writes Andrew G. about camping along the water at Grapevine.
Low traffic: Many sites remain relatively uncrowded, especially midweek. Blue Valley offers "very secluded" camping with "very little traffic on the dirt road," according to Kelli.
What You Should Know
Access roads: Most dispersed camping requires driving on unpaved forest roads of varying quality. For Ammons Branch Campground, "you have to travel curvy, mountain roads. It is not a campground for large RVs. Once you get on Bull Pen Road, which is a national forest road, you have to drive about 1.2 miles on gravel," explains Myron C.
Weather preparation: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly, especially at night. One camper at Burrells Ford reports temperatures dropping to 17 degrees unexpectedly during their spring trip, forcing their "plan to stay in 2 tents quickly changed to everybody in the 4-man/3-season tent."
Campsite logistics: Most sites include basic amenities like fire rings, but many lack potable water. "Sites typically include fire rings... a nice large picnic table and lantern pole," notes a visitor to Burrells Ford, while others mention the need for water filtration systems.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly spots: Select campsites with safe water access and room to explore. At Blue Valley Camp, "limestone pools and plenty of seclusion" create natural playgrounds, according to Valerie D.
Trail difficulty: Consider shorter, less challenging trails for younger campers. "The East Fork trail at the end of Burrells Ford is quite an easy trail! It's 2.5 miles one way," shares Melissa R., making it manageable for most ages.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage practices. "Bear activity is common throughout the region," requiring "proper food storage using bear boxes where provided or by hanging food at least 14 feet off the ground," advises a regular camper.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many camping areas near Dillard have limited access for larger vehicles. At Hurricane Creek Horse and Primitive Campground, the more secluded atmosphere means "this site should be high on your list of overnight adventure destinations," but "it is not a campground for large RVs," notes Olen B.
Alternative parking: Some campgrounds require a short walk from parking areas to tent sites. At Burrells Ford, one visitor observed campers "taking there stuff down with a hand truck which is a very good idea. So you can either backpack it in or take a wagon to take your stuff in."
Limited hookups: None of the tent camping areas near Dillard offer water, electric, or sewer connections. Small, self-contained RVs under 25 feet work best at most locations, with boondocking capabilities essential.