Equestrian camping in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest spans approximately 867,000 acres across north Georgia. The area maintains both primitive and established camping facilities at elevations ranging from 700 to 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F while winter lows can drop to 25°F, with the region receiving around 60 inches of annual rainfall concentrated in spring and winter months.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Access 25+ miles of dedicated horse trails from Jacks River Fields Campground that connect to the Benton McKaye Trail system. "There's a hiking trail that connects to the Benton McKaye just across from campsite and if you are a bringing horses there are two paddocks for them as well," notes camper Liz B.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for trout and smallmouth bass in multiple creeks around Cohutta Wilderness. Bob P. at Sawmill Lake Campsite reports: "Free camping next to a beautiful creek. Very nice CG with picnic tables, pit toilet and trash can. I saw 3 copper heads at the creek."
Waterfall exploration: Hike 1-2 miles from Hickey Gap to reach scenic waterfalls in the Cohutta WMA. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" writes John B., highlighting the accessible nature features near camp.
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Most wilderness campgrounds in the region report minimal occupancy Monday through Thursday. "I decided to go all the way back down the gravel road to the back and every spot was taken so I wasted about 30 minutes. I had just a little bit of service, and there were no amenities that I could find," explains Mitchell M. about navigating weekend crowds at Sawmill Lake.
Natural water features: Creeks and small rivers enhance many camping locations throughout the Fort Oglethorpe region. Julia B. from Hickey Gap shares: "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."
Easy-access backcountry: Several sites offer primitive camping with vehicle access directly to campsites. "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," writes Liz B. about the solitude at Jacks River Fields.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many horse camping areas require navigating gravel roads with steep grades. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," warns Abigail P. about accessing Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Bear safety requirements: Most wilderness campgrounds require proper food storage due to active bear populations. Mike H. at Hickey Gap notes: "There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. 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."
Water supply limitations: No running water exists at most equestrian sites near Fort Oglethorpe. At Davis Pond Campsite, Tessa B. reports: "I took off a star because the bathroom looks like an actual third world country, covered in trash and bugs and who knows what else. I didn't stay long to look at it in detail. It was very rudimentary and disgusting."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom considerations: Primitive toilets at equestrian campgrounds require preparation. William S. at Davis Pond cautions: "While there is a two-station pit toilet, it's a bit of a horror show with a lot of trash accumulating in the structure. Another downside, after I set up my tent I noticed that some hornets were flying into a nearby dead tree."
Swimming areas: Natural pools provide recreation options during warmer months. John B. mentions at Hickey Gap: "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!"
Cell service limitations: Most wilderness areas have minimal to no connectivity. Nathan T. from Mountain Cove Resort advises: "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."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many equestrian camping areas near Fort Oglethorpe require high-clearance vehicles for access. Sierra Y. at Sawmill Lake notes: "I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. 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."
RV site availability: Dedicated spaces for larger vehicles remain limited throughout the region. "This campground is side by side hook ups. Not a tree one in the site area. Beautiful view of the mountain. We did not stay the night," reports Sarah H. about Tennessee Wall Camp, highlighting the lack of shade.
Leveling challenges: Many wilderness campgrounds feature uneven parking areas. "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," advises Gregg G. at Gee Creek Campground, a consideration for RV equestrian camping near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.
