Glamping options near Epworth, Georgia include luxury platforms, tent sites, and creekside accommodations across several state parks in the northern Georgia mountains. Located at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, this area experiences distinct seasons with warm summer days reaching 85°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures with vibrant wildflower displays and brilliant foliage, respectively.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Benton Falls trail in Chilhowee Recreation Area offers a moderate 3-mile round trip hike with scenic views. "Benton falls was great, but crowded. For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls," notes one camper who appreciated both options.
Lake activities and boating: Morganton Point Campground provides direct access to Lake Blue Ridge with rental options. "The lake offers many recreation opportunities including swimming, boating, picnicking, fishing, camping, and hiking. Rentals are available from the store front in Morganton or the beachside location," according to a visitor who explored the area thoroughly.
Stargazing opportunities: Sites at higher elevations offer exceptional night sky viewing during clear nights, particularly in fall and winter months. "Plenty of FC FS sites even though the signage at the main turnoff to Oswald rd said no RV electric sites," reported one camper who found unexpected availability at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
What campers like
Creek-accessible campsites: Multiple locations feature sites where campers can directly access flowing water. At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, "Several creeks meander through the campground, notably Burnett Branch, Wolf Creek...so the rushing water noise is both soothing and assists in drowning out neighborly conversations."
Platform camping experiences: For those seeking alternatives to traditional tent sites, elevated options exist. "I'll be honest. I've never slept outside of a tent. I've always wanted to, but never had the guts to do it," shared a first-time platform camper at Vogel State Park Campground, who described their platform as "a beautifully cleared flat trail."
Hot showers and clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain quality bathhouses. "The showers were clean, hot and great water pressure. Also, there was a restroom for every 6-7 sites, so not too much traffic," reported a camper who appreciated the facilities at Chilhowee Recreation Area during their summer visit.
What you should know
Steep mountain roads: Access to many camping areas requires navigating challenging roads. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns one camper about Chilhowee Recreation Area, while another notes the importance of proper directions: "Be sure to read the instructions on the park website about how to get here! Google will lead you astray!"
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in the region, particularly at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping. One platform camper reported: "Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here. Needless to say, I did it! I slept outside of a tent!!"
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "There was no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal," shared a visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area who found workarounds for staying connected.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several parks offer facilities specifically designed for children. Fort Mountain State Park Campground features "Two separate children's playgrounds... 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."
Swimming options: Multiple locations provide safe swimming areas. "We even took a dip at the swimming area just a short drive from the campsite and loved that too!" reports a visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area, while another mentions that "The most stroller/limited mobility friendly trails are the lake trail and the Cool Springs overlook" at Fort Mountain State Park.
Educational opportunities: Camp Woodruff Boy Scout Summer Camp offers learning experiences beyond typical recreation. "With a large lake, open field, and well maintained roads and accommodations - Woodruff is one of my favorite camps!" explains an Eagle Scout who frequented this location.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully based on rig size and campground layout. "We had 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," cautions a visitor to Amicalola Falls State Park Camping.
Hookup variations: Water and electric access differs between parks and sites. At Chilhowee Recreation Area, "the RV sites do not have water hook-ups at each site. There is a water hook up to fill your tank as you enter the campsite area. Fill your tank and you are good to go."
Campground navigation: Internal roads can present challenges for larger rigs. "The roads in the campground are narrow and again, some of the turns are sharp when pulling a trailer," notes a camper with a 25-foot travel trailer who successfully navigated Chilhowee Recreation Area but observed others struggling with larger fifth wheels.
