Dispersed camping near Eton, Georgia offers multiple options within the Cohutta Wilderness area, where elevations range from 700 to 4,200 feet. Located in the northeastern corner of Georgia, the region experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s during the day. Weather conditions can change rapidly in these mountains, with thunderstorms common during summer afternoons.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Fort Mountain State Park features multiple hiking paths with varying difficulty levels, from the easy 0.75-mile Lake Trail to more challenging routes. According to a visitor, "We did not make it to the Fire Tower the state park is named for, but as a homeschool family we are always excited to find CCC buildings as living history and political science lessons" (Stephanie J.).
Mountain biking: The Cloudland Canyon trail system offers options for cyclists of all skill levels. Trails are well-marked but can be technical due to elevation changes. One camper noted, "Most trails are moderate to strenuous because of elevation gain and roots/rocks. The Cave tour is a must, but prepare to get dirty" (G F.).
Swimming and water activities: Chilhowee Recreation Area provides lake access with designated swimming areas. "We even took a dip at the swimming area just a short drive from the campsite and loved that too! The best part was how quiet it all got after dark and the frogs just lulled us to sleep" (Emerald M.).
What campers like
Platform camping sites: Fort Mountain offers elevated camping platforms known as Squirrel's Nests. A first-time platform camper shared: "The site itself was in a beautiful location, had a hand pump on site, and also had a shared bear proof storage box (shared between 2 sites). There is definitely active wildlife here!! Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here" (Miranda H.).
Tent-only areas: Cloudland Canyon provides secluded walk-in sites away from RVs. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear). The sites have a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring, and lots of privacy as the sites are very far from each other" (Abby M.).
Budget-friendly winter camping: Woodring Campground offers affordable options during off-peak seasons. A winter camper reported, "Has a bathroom, picnic tables, fire ring and grill. No water this time of year but the lake can be accessed at the nearby boat ramp. Beautiful lake and forest. Have the place to myself for the most part at this time of year. Often in the 30s at night but nice in daytime" (Guy W.).
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are active throughout the region, particularly at Fort Mountain. One camper warned, "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though" (Shelly C.).
Limited cell service: Many camping areas have spotty reception. At Chilhowee, "There is 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" (Manie D.).
Steep access roads: Several campgrounds require navigating challenging mountain roads. Chilhowee warns, "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road. The camp sites are distanced well and the entire campground is in the shade" (Carissa D.).
Tips for camping with families
Check site privacy levels: Different loops offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Cloudland Canyon, "The West Rim camping loop has a total of 48 tent/RV sites with 30 or 50A hookups, water, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. This loop is far more wooded and offers a greater variety of site size and privacy, and has an extremely quiet and peaceful vibe to it" (Stephanie J.).
Consider glamping options near Eton, Georgia: For families new to outdoor stays, glamping provides comfort while maintaining nature access. Amicalola Falls offers both camping and cabin options. A visitor noted, "Cabins 1-5 are on the east rim and the waterfall trail runs almost directly behind them, so there is a loss of privacy there, especially on busy weekends" (Stephanie J.).
Look for recreational amenities: Some campgrounds provide family-friendly activities beyond hiking. Woodring Campground features "a bathroom, picnic tables, fire ring and grill...a range of camping options. They are either right on the water or about a 100yd walk away" (Joshua S.).
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for RV parking. A Fort Mountain camper warned, "We stayed creekside at site 24. The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level" (Mike N.).
Know your hookup options: Water access varies by campground. At Chilhowee, "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" (Nathan G.).
Plan for dump station location: Layout can make access challenging for larger rigs. One Chilhowee visitor reported, "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. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else" (Mike N.).
