Dispersed camping opportunities abound within the Chattahoochee National Forest and surrounding areas near Flowery Branch, Georgia. The region features numerous primitive campsites situated between 1,200 and 4,700 feet elevation, with most accessible via forest service roads. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions suitable for rustic camping experiences.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: High Shoals Falls Trail offers primitive camping alongside creek access with a 2.4-mile round trip hike to view two significant waterfalls. According to a camper, "The area is lush with mountain laurel, rhododendrons, and old-growth trees. The cool waters of High Shoals Creek offer rewarding refreshment after a day of exploring the various wildflowers and plant life while serving as a soothing sound to fall asleep too while stargazing." High Shoals Falls Trail Dispersed
Astrophotography: The dark skies at higher elevation campsites provide excellent stargazing conditions. One visitor to Corbin Creek Tray Mountain noted, "Also worth it if you're into astrophotography as all of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia."
Creek swimming: Multiple campsites feature accessible water features with gentle currents suitable for wading. A visitor to Jones Creek mentioned, "This river is amazing, low current makes its easy to walk in and there are a few little water falls we enjoyed hanging on for a bit."
What campers like
Mountain top access: Cowrock Mountain provides ridge camping with expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A camper described, "Dispersed camp sites at or near the summit of Cowrock Mountain offer wonderfully shaded spots with long range views of the Blue Ridge. Perfect spot for hammocks or tents right off the trail with large rocky outcrops for your views." Cowrock Mountain
Solitude options: Miller Branch Camp offers secluded backcountry camping away from crowds. A visitor described it as "Primitive Backcountry Heaven" and noted, "Single spot off of the road but very nice! Pretty much have the woods and mountains to yourself." Miller Branch Camp
Trail connectivity: Several dispersed sites provide direct access to the Appalachian Trail. At Justus Creek Campsite, one hiker reported, "After one of my favorite stretches of hiking we got to this campsite along the AT... The creek was absolutely freezing cold in July, it was great to rinse some clothes and ourselves off."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest service roads require appropriate vehicles with ground clearance. At Mountain Side Overlook, a camper noted, "4x4 is not required, but ground clearance makes it non-accessible to some." Mountain Side Overlook at Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Variable site conditions: Prepare for uneven ground at some locations. At Cowrock Mountain, a visitor advised, "This section of the AT isn't easy breezy, but it levels out and the trees thin out on the mountain ridges to relatively open, flat land for camping."
Water availability: Most sites lack potable water sources. Plan to either filter from streams or bring sufficient water supplies. A Justus Creek camper reported, "The creek was absolutely freezing cold in July, it was great to rinse some clothes and ourselves off."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for sites with established areas and creek access for activities. At Indian Grave Gap, a camper noted, "Three campsites in the immediate area. Two are on one side of the road... All three have creek access." Indian Grave Gap Campsite
Safety preparation: Remote locations require extra planning for emergencies. A Dicks Creek Falls visitor mentioned, "There is a 3 mile long dirt road to travel on. There is one large set of falls towards beginning of dirtroad with a porta potty at parking area."
Supply planning: Limited services in nearby towns may require bringing all supplies. A camper at Indian Grave Gap reported, "The closest town is Hiawasee. Had a grocery and an outfitters if you need supplies. There's only two sit down restaurants—one had an hour wait; the other had run out of food."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads have tight turns and rough conditions limiting RV access. At Corbin Creek Tray Mountain, a camper advised, "It's more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles, to get a spot down by the creek. But it is possible to get a full size 4*4 truck down the switch back." Corbin Creek Tray Mountain
Summit camping: Some mountain top locations can accommodate smaller rigs or truck campers. An ADV motorcyclist at Indian Grave Gap reported, "There is one site that would support a large group or even a camper (or two) if you can get them up the steep rocky hunting trail."
Group site options: Several locations offer expanded areas suitable for multiple vehicles. At Indian Grave Gap, a visitor found, "Each site is huge. We decided to spread out but that meant having to do a lot of walking back and forth for stuff. You can pull your car into the site easily."
