The Cherokee National Forest region around Epworth offers campers access to numerous waterways, hiking trails, and mountain views. Located approximately 90 miles north of Atlanta, this area sits at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 3,000 feet, creating moderate temperatures even during summer months. Winter camping remains viable at many locations with temperatures rarely dropping below 30°F for extended periods.
What to do
Whitewater adventures on the Ocoee River: At Thunder Rock Campground, campers can put in directly from their sites. "This is a National Forest campground. Alcohol is not permitted. Overall a great place to stay, economical, clean, good facilities. Right on the Ocoee River - whitewater kayakers can put on the river right from their campsite," notes a camper.
Hiking to waterfalls: The area features accessible waterfall trails suitable for most ability levels. "There is a small hike to Cumberland Falls, which is gorgeous!! We had a great time!" shares a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Trout fishing: Local ponds and streams offer stocked fishing opportunities. "Nice private campground with a creek and a fully stocked trout pond. You pay for what you catch but totally worth it," reports a camper at Persimmon Creek RV Park.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated bike trails. "They also have a mountain bike cleaning station since there are several trails accessible from the campground," explains a reviewer about Thunder Rock Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront camping access: Sites along rivers and lakes are highly valued. "Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table and the restrooms were close by," notes a visitor at Morganton Point Campground.
Private camping spaces: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites. "The platform sites are a short walk from a parking area near the lake so you can make multiple trips to the car if necessary, while the backcountry sites are up to a 3 mile hike in," describes a camper at Fort Mountain State Park Campground.
Natural water features: Campers frequently mention creeks and streams as highlights. "We absolutely love Blue Ridge, Georgia. This time around we hit up Morganton Point and it was ah-mazing! The campground and recreation area have many access points to Lake Blue Ridge, in the Chattahoochee National Forest."
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms receive frequent praise. "The bathhouse was clean and well lit. Roads around the loops were narrow but there were big 5th wheel rigs so its doable," reports a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
What you should know
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds report bear visits. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," notes a camper at Fort Mountain State Park.
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can be challenging. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns a reviewer about Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains a visitor at Chilhowee.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels change seasonally. "The lake was pretty low at winter level. 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," reports a camper at Morganton Point Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly hiking trails: Several campgrounds welcome dogs on trails. "Pet friendly," notes a camper at Chilhowee about their trails, making it suitable for those seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Epworth.
Kid-friendly water play: Shallow creek areas provide safe play spaces. "The creek runs right next to them and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The trails along the lake were nice and the dogs enjoyed it," shares a visitor at Vogel State Park Campground.
Playgrounds and activities: Some parks offer additional recreational facilities. "It has a playground area as well as putt putt golf and the best part they are dog friendly! During the summer they offer a beach area with peddle boats and kayaks," explains a camper at Vogel State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many families enjoy animal sightings. "My teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth," shares a visitor at Amicalola Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "We were in 35 foot trailer but some tight turns in camp ground. If large rig then call for advice on site," advises a camper at Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Limited hookup options: Water and electric availability varies. "There is no water hookup but you can fill your tank at the spiggots. Electric was available at our site," notes a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Dump station accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging dump station access. "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," warns a camper at Chilhowee.
Pet-friendly RV campgrounds: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Epworth Georgia accommodate RVs with pets. "The R.V. sites are well shaded and well spaced and many will accommodate large R.V.'s. Several sites offer the opportunity for two R.V.'s to camp close together," explains a reviewer about Parksville Lake RV Campground.
