The Cohutta Wilderness area near Eton, Georgia offers some of the most rustic camping in the Southeast, with elevations ranging from 950 to 4,200 feet throughout the region. The wilderness spans over 36,000 acres, making it the largest wilderness area in Georgia. Primitive sites are often located along forest service roads with high clearance vehicles recommended for accessing many locations.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area offers exceptional night sky viewing. "This is one of my favorite types of spots: remote, little light pollution, and deep in the mountains. I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way," notes camper Tyler J.
Swimming and wading: Clear waters at Conasauga River Camp provide cooling relief during summer months. According to Grayce F., the area features "a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."
Creek exploration: Many campsites border small streams ideal for afternoon soaking. At Goforth Creek, Asher K. recommends "going all the way to the end and taking a little dip. The water feels wonderful on a hot summer day."
Fishing: Several sites offer fishing opportunities in creeks and rivers. The Ball Field area provides access to nearby Lake Conasauga, while smaller creeks throughout the region harbor native fish species.
What campers like
Remote atmosphere: The primitive camping near Eton attracts those seeking genuine wilderness experiences. "This is primitive camping, so there are no facilities (no bathhouse, no power, no dump station, no trash, etc). It's all pack it in, pack it out," explains Steve V. about Big Creek Primitive Camping Area.
Creek-side sites: Many campers appreciate spots adjacent to water sources. At Creekside Camp, visitors find "flat campsites next to a very nice creek," according to Bob P., though he notes there are "no picnic tables or pit toilets."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including black bears. Steve V. mentions, "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."
Group camping options: Several areas accommodate larger gatherings. Gabrielle D. recounts at Ball Field, "We got to the group site at 1:20 or so and there was only one person at first but slowly people start trickling in."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Almost all rustic sites near Eton lack facilities. Karen reports that Murrays Lake Primitive offers minimal amenities: "There is a lake, but it's not all that pretty. There's a boat ramp, but the lake is small and I doubt it's worth the trouble."
Vehicle considerations: Most access roads require sturdy vehicles. Steve V. explains that Big Creek is "along Forest Service Road 221 which this section of FS 221 shares driving trails such as the Big Frog Loop, the Georgia Traverse, and the Trans America Trail (TAT), so there could be lots of traffic with overlanders, adventure bikers, and off-roaders."
Seasonal hunting activity: Be aware of hunting seasons when planning visits. Scott E. notes, "We apparently went during hunting season. Had to have been a dog sport. Too many dogs running around and barking throughout the night."
Site availability: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. Gabrielle D. recounts, "First location was Hickey Gap, we got there around 1 on a Friday and it was full so we headed to the primitive group camping site."
Tips for camping with families
Consider backcountry readiness: Jack's River Falls Trail offers challenging but rewarding family experiences. "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls," advises Anna R.
Bring water toys: Shallow creek areas provide natural play spaces for children. Renee B. describes one site where groups can "spread out over this little 'island' very easily" with convenient water access to "filter water from."
Pack bear safety supplies: Teach children proper food storage protocols. Multiple reviewers emphasize the importance of bear awareness in the region.
Plan transportation carefully: Some families may need to adjust expectations for site access. Grayce F. notes that Conasauga River Camp is "accessible easily from a 2WD just off of a long gravel road."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Only smaller RVs and teardrop trailers can access most rustic sites near Eton. Steve V. mentions his group at Big Creek included "one with a small teardrop trailer" among their vehicles.
Level site challenges: Lost Creek Campground offers concrete pads but limited amenities. "Sites can accommodate tents and small RVs, complete with concrete picnic tables and a fire ring," according to Brittany S.
Extended stays: Plan supplies accordingly for multi-day visits. Rayley P. appreciates Lost Creek's free camping policy, noting "it's first come first serve and everyone we've met so far there have been the friendliest of people."
Self-contained requirements: No hook-ups or dump stations exist at any rustic sites in this region. Chris D. confirms Lost Creek is a "super remote area" where roads "were in decent shape" but "could see them being bad after a heavy storm."
