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Best Dispersed Camping near Ellijay, GA

48 Reviews

The Cohutta Wilderness and surrounding Wildlife Management Areas provide numerous free dispersed camping options near Ellijay, Georgia. Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain WMA offers established sites with fire pits and nearby hiking trails. While 4x4 vehicles aren't required, clearance is necessary to navigate the access roads. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area features a large sloped field with multiple fire rings and trailhead access to Emery Creek and Tearbritches Trails. The field accommodates several groups and serves as a popular stop on the Georgia Traverse and Big Frog Loop for overlanders.

Jones Creek and Justus Creek offer more secluded primitive camping experiences with riverside sites. According to reviews, Jones Creek provides "beautiful but popular" camping with "a few little waterfalls" along an "amazing river with low current." The Conasauga River area includes several dispersed sites where campers report "crystal clear" water that's "very swimmable and warm." Most sites throughout the region lack facilities, with Lake Conasauga Campground being the nearest location for toilets and water (for a $5 fee). Cell service is extremely limited throughout these public lands, and proper food storage is essential as reviews mention bear activity in the area.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ellijay, Georgia (37)

    1. Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area

    1 Review
    Cherry Log, GA
    9 miles
    Website

    "Nice firepit, hiking across the way. 4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some."

    2. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Crandall, GA
    16 miles
    Website

    "This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. GPS is 34.86064073010609,-84.63659794105651. (Photos and this review are from my last stay here on 31 Oct- 02 Nov 2021.) "

    "Fairly remote for eastern U.S, (but I have watched, over the past 2 decades, Atlanta grow northward, and a lot of development in Ellijay and Blue Ridge areas, and it is a little depressing). "

    3. SongBird Trail Camp (Cohutta WMA)

    1 Review
    Crandall, GA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 695-6736

    4. Jack's River Falls Trail/Cohutta Wilderness Backcountry Group Camp

    4 Reviews
    Cisco, GA
    21 miles

    "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls. Camping is primitive as back country can be but worth the trek."

    "Obviously very close to the river to filter water from. We didn't see any wildlife at this site, but we did see a copperhead at another earlier in the trip, so be aware!"

    5. Jones Creek Dispersed Campground

    1 Review
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    19 miles

    "Dont park where the map tells you, you can drive to the locations on a decent narrow dirt road. When we first arrived, the camp site we chose was on the river, but also off the main road."

    6. Conasauga River Camp

    2 Reviews
    Cisco, GA
    23 miles

    "Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."

    "My go-to spot gets picked up during the fall A lot but best dispersed site I’ve found in a while"

    7. Murrays Lake Primitive

    2 Reviews
    Cisco, GA
    22 miles
    Website

    8. Justus Creek Campsite

    1 Review
    Suches, GA
    23 miles

    "We were warned about bears in the area so were very cautious about hanging our bear bag a little extra distance away on the opposite side of the creek."

    9. Conasauga River - Dispersed Site Sheeds Creek Road

    1 Review
    Cisco, GA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 338-3300

    "Right on the river and pit toilets close by."

    10. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    33 miles
    Website

    "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. The campground is operated and maintained by the USFS."

    "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Ellijay, GA

41 Photos of 37 Ellijay Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ellijay, GA

48 Reviews of 37 Ellijay Campgrounds

  • Steve V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2022

    Big Creek Primitive Camping Area

    Remote Primitive Camping

    This is a great off grid camping spot along a creek. There are about 7 spots here with most of them each able to hold multiple vehicles and set ups. We had 3 vehicles (two with rooftop tents and one with a small teardrop trailer) and we still had room for more set ups in the spot we set up in. All the sites have at least 1 fire ring, most had multiple.

    This is primitive camping, so there are no facilities (no bathhouse, no power, no dump station, no trash, ect). It's all pack it in, pack it out. We had no service with Verizon. 

    This is also bear country, so you need to practice bear safety with your food and trash. We did not see any bears in camp, but did spot one just down the road the morning we were leaving. 

    There is hiking in the area and there are areas in the creek deep enough for wading and soaking. 

    This is along Forest Service Road 221 which this section of FS 221 shares driving trails such as the Big Frog Loop, the Georgia Traverse, and the Trans America Trail (TAT), so there could be lots of traffic with overlanders, adventure bikers, and off-roaders.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 4, 2024

    Hidden Creek Campground

    Pretty Decent Place to Stay

    A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn’t recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle. Also GPS isn’t perfect. It will take u to someone’s private property next door. Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Creekside Camp

    Very primitive

    No picnic tables or pit toilets. Flat campsites next to a very nice creek.

  • Roy B.
    Nov. 6, 2021

    Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    Grassy Field in forested mountainous area.

    This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. GPS is 34.86064073010609,-84.63659794105651. (Photos and this review are from my last stay here on 31 Oct- 02 Nov 2021.) 

    The camping field is at the base of Bald Mountain, altitude 4005'. Nearby Tearbritches Trail will take you to the summit of Bald Mountain and then down to the Conasauga River. The Emery Creek Trail is at the back of the camping area. There are some fire pits in the open field. 

    The cell connection is intermittent and usually only one bar(or no cell). 

    This area is fairly remote and the rough gravel forest service roads are best traveled by a higher clearance vehicle. 2x2 usually works ok though. (It takes patience and a while to get here.) This is a popular mountain bike area and the cyclists can easily hit speeds of 30MPH on the sketchy downhills.

  • Roy B.
    Oct. 13, 2021

    Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    Remote. Field.

    34.860688452654024,-84.63670121000321

    Stayed here a number of times during each of the four seasons. Fairly remote for eastern U.S, (but I have watched, over the past 2 decades, Atlanta grow northward, and a lot of development in Ellijay and Blue Ridge areas, and it is a little depressing).  Access is by gravel roads. There are bears in the area and they love food. (A fed bear is a dead bear-please don't leave any food out and scare them away if they come around.)

    No amenities. Lake Conasauga is nearby which has some amenities. One can hike up to the top of nearby Bald Mountain and then hike down to the Conasauga River. One can look for butterflies, other insects, birds, flowers, etc. There are many trails in the Cohutta Wilderness, which is just to the north.

    I will post some photos of nearby Bald Mountain and the trail head for Tearbritches Trail. Other photos of the area here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/rbinv/albums/72157634085883873

    (N34 51.670 W84 38.120) This leads over the highest western-most mountain in the eastern U.S., and then down to Bray Field at the junction of Tearbritches Creek and the Conasauga River(N34 53.897 W84 37.296)- It is a long steep grade down to the Conasauga(1-way distance is 3.4 miles)| 30 August 2013

    Here are some notes I took about the vegetation in the area:

    The north-northeasterly facing slope of Bald Mountain within a half-mile of the summit, elevation 4005'. Mostly New York Fern(Thelypteris noveboracensis) here, but also saw Hay-scented(Dennstaedtia punctilobula), Cinnamon(Osmundastrum cinnamomeum), and Interrupted Ferns(Osmunda claytoniana) in this immediate area. New York Ferns are common throughout the widerness| Tearbritches Trail, Cohutta Wilderness, N. Georgia Mountains| 30 August 2013

  • Steve V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 19, 2022

    Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    Large Dispersed Camping Field

    This is a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers (Emery Creek Trail and Tear Britches Trail both have trailheads here) and Overlanders (site is on the Big Frog Loop and Georgia Traverse). There are multiple fire rings established around the field and this field can handle many groups. No water or facilities here, but you can go down to the Lake Conasauga Campground about a mile away and use their facilities for a $5 fee. The field is fairly sloped, so you want to have some shoring if you are in a trailer, roof top tent, or van.

  • Michael M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2022

    Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

    Good dispersed camping at the blue hole

    It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good. An the do have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole ...no one to bother you!

  • B
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Jones Creek Dispersed Campground

    Beautiful but popular

    Dont park where the map tells you, you can drive to the locations on a decent narrow dirt road.

    When we first arrived, the camp site we chose was on the river, but also off the main road. This area seems to be popular for local dirt bikers, but we seen people fishing and relaxing all the same.

    I would have gave 5 stars, but these sites are well used and has years of careless debris around. We also heard some folks shooting guns( in the distance), which isn’t a problem for us, but reduced the relaxing nature of the visit with all this combined.

    This river is amazing, low current makes its easy to walk in and there are a few little water falls we enjoyed hanging on for a bit.

  • Robert N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Panther Top Dispersed Site

    Panther Top Dispersed

    Great spot right on the little lake. You can hear the gun range from the Camp Spot, but it is barely noticeable. There are two main spots right on the lake that are set up for tent camping. My overland rig fit in the small parking area fine, but I had to find a few rocks to level my truck so the rooftop tent was level. It is obviously a spot that locals come to party on the weekends but I had no issues. There looks like there are only 2 primary camping spots with fire rings and tent pads. My spot had a picnic table and two tent pads, a pole for your lantern and was just feet from the lake. Lots of fish jumping and I caught a 1 pound large mouth bass on a silver spinning lure. Over all a great spot. No bugs, but you will likely need to bring firewood, as all of the fallen trees had been scavenged. Since there are only two spot, definitely have a backup plan, especially on the weekends.

Guide to Ellijay

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ellijay, Georgia, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

  • Located in the stunning Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area provides a spacious field for camping, ideal for groups and families.
  • The area is accessible via gravel roads, making it suitable for various vehicles, though higher clearance is recommended for the best experience.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views and the nearby lake, but be cautious of wildlife, including bears, as they are known to frequent the area.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Ellijay, Georgia

  • When visiting Jack's River Falls Trail/Cohutta Wilderness Backcountry Group Camp, be prepared for a hike-in experience that rewards you with stunning natural beauty and the soothing sounds of rushing water.
  • This site is perfect for larger groups, with ample space to spread out and enjoy the wilderness, but remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash facilities.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife and be mindful of your surroundings, especially if camping alone, as some visitors have reported feeling uneasy in the remote setting.

Scenic spots for dispersed camping enthusiasts

  • For those looking for a picturesque setting, SongBird Trail Camp (Cohutta WMA) offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by beautiful hikes and nature trails.
  • This area is well-loved for its tranquility and is a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
  • Facilities are minimal, but the presence of picnic tables and toilets makes it a comfortable choice for families and groups wanting to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing too much convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Ellijay, GA?

Ellijay offers several free dispersed camping options nearby. Hidden Creek Campground provides solid free camping a short drive from the highway. Look for the wooden sign, not the GPS coordinates which may lead to private property, and be aware of potholes if driving a low-clearance vehicle. Another option is Jones Creek Dispersed Campground, accessible via a narrow dirt road with sites along the river. It's popular with dirt bikers but also accommodates those seeking relaxation. Most dispersed sites in the area are first-come, first-served with no amenities, so bring everything you need including water and waste disposal solutions.

Are there any free tent camping sites with lake access near Ellijay?

Dicks Creek Falls Campsites offers free tent camping with water access, though it's limited to 5-6 first-come, first-served spots. Some sites are closer to the water while others are more remote. The area features falls at the beginning of the 3-mile dirt road with a porta-potty at the parking area. For lake access specifically, SongBird Trail Camp in Cohutta WMA provides free camping with basic toilet facilities. While not directly on Ellijay's doorstep, Lake Conasauga is relatively nearby, with primitive camping options in the surrounding area. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as these water-adjacent sites fill quickly.

What primitive camping options are available near Ellijay?

The Ellijay area offers excellent primitive camping opportunities. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area is a large field along Conasauga Lake Road popular with hikers and overlanders, featuring multiple established fire rings and serving as a trailhead for Emery Creek and Tear Britches Trails. It sits at the base of Bald Mountain at 4,005 feet elevation. Big Creek Primitive Camping Area provides off-grid camping along a creek with about seven spacious spots, each accommodating multiple vehicles and setups including rooftop tents and small trailers. Pack in all necessities as these sites lack facilities like picnic tables or toilets.

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