Tent campsites near Epworth, Georgia sit among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet throughout the camping region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Most forest service roads leading to primitive camping areas remain unpaved, requiring careful navigation during and after rainfall.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Access numerous fishing spots along creeks and rivers where campers can catch trout and bass. At Hickey Gap Campground, visitors can fish at the creek adjacent to camp and hike "about a mile down trail from camp" to reach "tons of great swimming areas" according to John B.
**Hiking the Benton McKaye Trail: This long-distance trail connects multiple camping areas and offers day hiking options. At Lost Creek Campground, the "Benton McKaye trail runs directly beside it, providing excellent backpacking opportunities," as noted by one reviewer who found the location "surrounded by forest, with easy creek access."
**Waterfall exploration: Several waterfalls are accessible via hiking trails from campsites. Julia B. mentions that at Hickey Gap, "There's a giant waterfall down the trail if you can make the trek," making it an excellent destination for day hikers looking for natural attractions not far from their tent sites.
What campers like
**Creek access for cooling off: Many tent camping spots in Epworth feature creeks for wading and swimming. Mike H. describes Hickey Gap as "a beautiful little spot next to a creek" with "5 sites in all," providing a peaceful sleeping environment with the sound of running water.
**Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural spacing between tent sites. At Your Toccoa River Cove, Stephanie J. notes that "with 12 acres of woodland and the freedom to pitch a tent anywhere... you can camp right next to the car, set up a camping hammock, or explore the forest and find a secluded area in the trees."
**Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost tent sites. Tyler J. describes Lost Creek as "your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!" while another camper mentions the campground is "completely free" despite being "incredibly clean + quiet."
What you should know
**Road access challenges: Many camping areas require driving on unpaved forest roads. Melissa R. notes at Toccoa River Cove that "the driveway down to the shelter is very steep, and does not allow much space to turn around. RVs or larger trucks will not fit."
**Bear activity in the area: Bears are common in the forests around Epworth. At Hickey Gap, reviewers mention "signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box." The campground provides a bear box for food storage.
**Limited cell service: Most tent camping locations have poor or no cellular reception. According to Everette G., Toccoa River Cove offers "incredible private camping" but limited connectivity, while at Lost Creek Campground, reviewers mention there is "no Verizon cell reception."
Tips for camping with families
**Look for water features: Children enjoy water access at campsites. Stephanie J. shares that before visiting Henson Cove, her kids asked "Is there water to play in?" and upon arrival they discovered "a phenomenal wonderland we will never want to leave," with streams and springs throughout the property.
**Pack extra drinking water: Many primitive sites lack potable water sources. At Lost Creek Campground, reviewers note "there is no potable water available from a spigot" requiring families to bring adequate supplies for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
**Choose weekdays for fewer crowds: Weekend camping can be busy at popular sites. J A. mentions that Lost Creek gets "super crowded on the weekend" while staying open year-round, making weekday visits preferable for families seeking quieter camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
**Consider alternative accommodation types: Some campgrounds offer cabins when RV access is limited. At Hiwassee River Area, Jay A. notes they have "excellent sites, small outfitter store with food, drink, sundries" and cabin options when RV access might be challenging.
**Check clearance requirements: Many forest roads have tight turns and steep grades. Gregg G. describes Lost Creek Campground as requiring travel on "a well maintained gravel road for 7 miles" to reach the camping area, which may present challenges for larger vehicles despite being technically accessible.
**Limited hookup availability: Most camping areas near Epworth offer primitive camping without standard RV hookups. Chris D. advises that at Lost Creek, the "roads were in decent shape" but could become "bad after a heavy storm," which is important information for those bringing camping vehicles to the area.
