Dispersed camping near Epworth, Georgia provides rustic experiences in the Cherokee and Chattahoochee National Forests at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 feet. The region features crystal-clear mountain streams with water temperatures that remain comfortable for swimming through summer and early fall. Forest service roads in this area can become deeply rutted after heavy rainfall, making travel challenging even for high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Creek exploration: Goforth Creek offers excellent wading opportunities with its clear waters. "The hike up the creek is really beautiful and a much less traveled trail than others in the area. I highly suggest going all the way to the end and taking a little dip. The water feels wonderful on a hot summer day," notes Asher K. about Goforth Creek Campground A.
Stargazing: Ball Field provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way. Go here on a new moon night in the summer and you're sure to have a great night of uninterrupted beauty!" says Tyler J. about Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area.
Wilderness backpacking: The Cohutta Wilderness area contains multiple primitive backcountry sites. "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," explains Anna R. about Jack's River Falls Trail.
What campers like
Remote seclusion: The primitive sites provide genuine disconnection from civilization. "This campground is incredibly clean + quiet—and completely free. It's in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road), surrounded by forest, with easy creek access," reports Brittany S. from Lost Creek Campground.
River proximity: Many sites sit directly adjacent to waterways. "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. Accessible easily from a 2WD just off of a long gravel road," shares Grayce F. about Conasauga River Camp.
Established fire rings: Despite being primitive, most dispersed sites feature established fire pits. "There are multiple fire rings established around the field and this field can handle many groups," notes Steve V. about Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area.
Quiet soundscape: The constant sound of flowing water creates natural white noise at most sites. "This is also a good option for anyone who has trouble sleeping with loud water sounds since this site is much quieter than some of the others," mentions Asher K. about Goforth Creek Campground B.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Active bear populations exist throughout the region. "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," warns Steve V. about Big Creek Primitive Camping Area.
Limited cell coverage: Expect minimal to no connectivity. "The cell connection is intermittent and usually only one bar(or no cell)," explains Roy B. about Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area. Another camper at Lost Creek notes "no Verizon cell reception."
Road conditions: Forest service roads require patience and appropriate vehicles. "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.)" advises Roy B.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. "Nice but super crowded on the weekend," reports J.A. about Lost Creek Campground. Similarly, at Conasauga River Camp, Stephen J. notes it's their "go-to spot."
Tips for camping with families
Teenager-friendly challenges: The backcountry trails provide appropriate adventure for older kids. "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country," shares Anna R. about Jack's River Falls Trail.
Established group sites: For family gatherings, seek out the larger dispersed areas. "We had a group of 10 that spread out over this little 'island' very easily. There were two campfire areas already in place and most sites very level and well covered by trees," explains Renee B. about Jack's River Falls Trail.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas provide family recreation during summer months. "There are spots that you can swim around in," mentions Scott E. about the creek at Lost Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Only smaller trailers and vans can access most sites. "The field is fairly sloped, so you want to have some shoring if you are in a trailer, roof top tent, or van," cautions Steve V. about Mountain Side Overlook.
Multiple vehicle capacity: Some sites can accommodate several setups. "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," shares Steve V. about Big Creek Primitive Camping Area.
Pad conditions: Look for sites with concrete pads where available. "Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived," notes Scott E. about Lost Creek Campground.
