Camping opportunities around Epworth, Georgia range from seasonal recreational areas to full-service year-round facilities within a 35-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with temperatures averaging 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Atlanta during summer months. Creek-side campsites are common in this region, with many facilities positioned near trout fishing waters.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Chilhowee Recreation Area provides multiple trail options, including a moderate 3-mile round trip to Benton Falls. "The trails are what really makes this an all around great campground. Several hikes for all levels. We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT," notes a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Fishing in stocked creeks: Blue Ridge RV Resort maintains regularly stocked trout waters on their property. "Kids loved playing in the creek that the owners have stocked regularly with trout," shares one camper at Blue Ridge RV Resort.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature water access. "There's a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc. There are gorgeous, peaceful walking trails that are decorated really well," reports a guest at Diamond Lure Campground.
Whitewater activities: Schedule visits around water releases on the Ocoee River for optimal conditions. "Close by Occoee White Water center where the Atlanta olympics took place. Plan your visit around the water release. There schedule is online. Pretty cool to see the water trickle and then mass if water come at you," advises a Parksville Lake visitor.
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Several campgrounds offer stream-adjacent camping spots. "We had a great experience at this little campground. There are several sites along a beautiful little creek. It was peaceful, only the occasional car on the nearby road," states a review from Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Spacious camping areas: RV parks in the region often provide well-designed sites. "Sites are spacious and meticulously groomed. If you're looking for peaceful and cozy, this is the place!" describes a visitor at Foxfire of Murphy RV Park.
Mountain views: Some RV parks offer elevated vantage points. "Beautiful sunrises and great view all together. New construction but very nice and the makings of a well maintained location," notes a camper at Top of the World RV.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower areas are typically well-maintained. "The bathroom and shower house is small and older, but very clean. The camp host was very helpful and friendly," shares a Parksville Lake visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate only part of the year. "Between spring and fall, campgrounds like Chilhowee Recreation Area operate with seasonal restrictions, closing from December through March," confirms operational timing at Chilhowee.
Mountain driving challenges: Accessing some campgrounds requires careful navigation. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns a reviewer at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Variable cell service: Connectivity changes with elevation and terrain. "Cell service with T-Mobile not existent. They have WiFi but not very fast," reports a visitor at Top of the World RV.
Limited shade at some facilities: Tree cover varies significantly between locations. "This is a new RV campground that just opened and the views are incredible," notes a Top of the World RV visitor about the open exposure.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some facilities offer dedicated play areas. "Kids loved playing in the creek that the owners have stocked regularly with trout, nice playground and pool for the kids, site has a soccer field also and Cornhole boards," shares a visitor at Blue Ridge RV Resort.
Dog-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater to pets with specialized facilities. "The grounds are clean and maintained with water and power at all or nearly all spots. They have things for dogs! (Dog bath, dog beach, dog park, etc)," notes a visitor at Diamond Lure Campground.
Loop selection matters: Family groups often prefer certain camping areas. "Loops A&B are closest to the lake and looked great for groups, or folks with kids. Loops E&F were a bit more secluded, and better fit for couples, dogs that don't like a lot of passersby," advises a Chilhowee visitor.
Group site options: Some campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. "The group sites are set up with tent pads around a central fire ring and picnic table area," describes a Parksville Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Some RV parks offer better separation between units. "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," notes a visitor to Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Leveling challenges: Campground terrain affects setup requirements. "Sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge is your rig does not auto level," advises a Top of the World RV camper.
RV site positioning: Utility locations vary between parks. "The utilities are at the middle of the pad so you can adjust according to your needs," shares a visitor at Talona Ridge RV Resort.
Reservation timing: Popular RV sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "The RV Campground area is nicely shaded. Several sites were closed in mid-September due to social distancing. If interested in this area, I would try to lock in a spot as early as you can," recommends a Parksville Lake camper.
