The North Georgia mountains surrounding Ellijay sit at elevations between 1,280 and 4,784 feet, creating distinct temperature zones with averages 10-15 degrees cooler than Atlanta. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round, though water systems at higher elevations may be winterized from November through March. Seasonal rainfall peaks in July and August with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer camping trips.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, trails lead to multiple scenic spots. "The trails are great, and everything feels spread out. I loved it, as did the rest of the group," reports camper Shelly C. The park contains stone steps leading to a historic fire tower that offers panoramic views.
Fishing opportunities: Morganton Point Campground provides access to Lake Blue Ridge for anglers. "The lake is extremely clean and the rental shop by the lake rents kayaks and paddleboards," notes one visitor. Even when water levels drop seasonally, fishing remains productive as "a friend of mine who fished still caught some both days. She said the area near the boat dock was rocky and not the muddy mess the rest of the low level lake was."
Winter recreation: Cold-weather camping offers unique experiences in the area. At Vogel State Park Campground, one visitor shared, "We spent a week here in Feb. 2017 it was a bit chilly and quiet. The sites and trails are very well maintained." The park's 22-acre lake and surrounding trails remain accessible during winter months when the park sees fewer visitors.
What campers like
Secluded platform camping: At Fort Mountain State Park, the platform tent sites offer a different glamping experience. "The site itself was in a beautiful location, had a hand pump on site, and also had a shared bear proof storage box," explains Miranda H. Platform sites require a short hike from parking areas and offer a wilderness experience with some amenities.
Wildlife viewing: The mountain forests around Ellijay support diverse wildlife. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," shares one Fort Mountain camper. Wildlife sightings vary seasonally with spring and fall offering optimal viewing opportunities.
Lake access from campsites: Several Woodring Campground sites offer direct water access. "Site was right on the water, just had to climb down a fairly steep hill," reports one camper. Another notes, "If you have a boat, there is a boat dock and several of the sites you can tie your boat up right next to them." This setup allows campers to enjoy water activities without relocating.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to mountain campgrounds can be challenging. At Chilhowee Recreation Area, "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."
Site selection strategies: When booking at Morganton Point, "In my own experience: While site 1 was nice, there was a very bright light at night, is next to the host and the site is not level. The campgrounds near the entrance are not as secluded, but they are closer to the newer restrooms – which are nice and kept very clean."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. At Chilhowee, "in the B loop there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible waterfall hikes: Amicalola Falls State Park Camping offers family-friendly hiking options. "Beautiful falls if you can get to the top. Moderate hike to the top of the falls," reports Kayla B. Families with young children should start at the upper observation deck and work downward rather than climbing up all stairs.
Lake swimming areas: Chilhowee Recreation Area provides designated swimming spots. "It has 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!!"
Recreational facilities: Vogel State Park features extensive family amenities. "Available State Park Activities: Two separate children's playgrounds exist, not too far from one another. One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area."
Tips from RVers
Campsite sizing: At Red Top Mountain State Park Campground, "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in. Sites were very narrow."
Dump station access: Chilhowee's dump station requires careful maneuvering. "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it."
Hookup considerations: Amicalola Falls State Park requires planning for certain sites. "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper."