Equestrian camping near Eton, Georgia offers dedicated facilities in the foothills of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Located in northwest Georgia at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet, the area experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s. Most horse camping areas feature primitive amenities with access to water sources for both riders and their horses.
What to do
Trail riding at Cohutta Wilderness: The trail system connects directly to Hickey Gap Campground, providing immediate wilderness access. "This area is easily accessible but can be packed during prime camping season! There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" notes John B. about Hickey Gap (Cohutta WMA).
Swimming and cooling off: Creek access at multiple campgrounds provides natural swimming holes during summer months. A camper at Jacks River Fields Campground shared: "We were the only campers around and we had an amazing time! Picked a spot right beside a stream. Pretty cold in the mornings but serenity is bliss!"
Cave exploration: For adventurous campers, the region offers spelunking opportunities near some campgrounds. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," reports Lisa about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds in the area remain uncrowded during weekdays, even in peak season. "We love this campsite! The first time we camped here, we were the only ones at the whole site. The most recent time, there were just two other couples so it was still very low key," explains Liz B. about Jacks River Fields.
Creek-side sites: Campsites positioned along streams offer pleasant background sounds and convenient water access. Bob P. remarked about Tennessee Wall Camp: "Great sites with fire pits" while Suzie K. added, "There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing."
Wilderness immersion: The remote locations create a true escape from city environments. "There were a few people that stayed in a tent for a night or two here and there, but I didn't see any other RV/Campers so every spot was open," reports Sierra Y. about her extended stay at Sawmill Lake Campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging for certain vehicles. "The road up there is all rock/dirt with a several hundred foot drop-off on the right side and no guardrail. There were a few hairpin turns," cautions Mike H. about Hickey Gap, adding "Our 2WD (front wheel drive) Honda Passport struggled to get back up it on our way out."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in the region, particularly around Cohutta Wilderness areas. "There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box," notes a visitor to Hickey Gap.
Permit requirements: Some recreation areas require permits for camping or day use. "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60," mentions Sierra Y. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Gee Creek Campground, "The Rangers check in daily and are very friendly. A trail runs the perimeter of the camp and the Hiwasee River runs next to the campground. The campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained," according to Anna M.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with gentle creek access for safer water play. "My girls group and I wanted to do a quick weekend glamping trip. One long rocky road and an active bear warning later we were rocking it by the creek. Bring a bathing suit and some good hiking shoes," suggests Julia B. about Hickey Gap.
Cell service limitations: Most wilderness campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Mountain Cove Resort, "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid," reports Nathan T.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring substantial leveling equipment. "The sites on the North side of loop A are fairly uneven and would require a significant amount of leveling blocks if using a camper," mentions Gregg G. about Gee Creek Campground.
Directional approach: Consider which direction you approach mountainous campgrounds from. "If you have a trailer or rv I recommend coming in from the west direction, if you can tell from maps. The east way had 180 degree sharp turns up the mountain, so may be difficult," advises Mitchell M. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Site selection: Some campgrounds have areas better suited for RVs than others. "If you come in summer when it's busy, I would recommend going to the first open field when you enter which is to the right," suggests a visitor to Sawmill Lake, noting this can save time when looking for suitable sites.
