Tent camping near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia offers access to the Cumberland Plateau with elevations reaching 1,900 feet at Pigeon Mountain. Most primitive sites sit on sandstone formations that drain quickly after rain but can become dusty during summer months. Seasonal closures affect some areas during hunting season from October through January.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Several tent sites at Sawmill Lake Campsite provide direct access to Rocktown, a premier bouldering destination. "A free, 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," notes camper Lisa.
Fishing opportunities: Davis Pond offers a stocked fishing lake suitable for casual anglers with shoreline access. "Down a long and winding (and dusty) gravel road into the WMA is the Davis Pond camp site, a real gem with shady trees and a fishing pond," reports William S.
Hiking trail connections: Foster Falls Campground serves as a gateway to the Fiery Gizzard Trail system. "Site 8 has a trail running directly behind it that takes you to the falls overlook, and to the trailhead to walk down to the falls themselves. Our 2 and 5 year old walked from our campsite down to the falls and back up easily," writes Stephanie J.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: The Blue Hole area provides swimming options during warmer months. "I loved it there. So peaceful! A couple of other people there and a little bit of trash, but I picked it up. Leave it better than you found it right?" reports camper Sav about Blue Hole Dispersed.
Spacious group camping: Many sites accommodate larger groups with multiple tents. "If you are coming with a group this is an awesome spot. We counted 5 fire pits but you could literally fill the meadow with dozens of tents easily," notes Tessa B. about Davis Pond.
Solitude options: For those seeking quieter experiences, backcountry sites provide more seclusion. "The shelter is very small, covered on three sides, with enough room to fit 2-3 adults. It has a small shelf to store gear, and a few nails to hang bags on," explains Stephanie J. about Lockhart's Arch Shelter.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads to primitive camping require high-clearance vehicles. "The last 1/2 mile gets a little dicey and needs a vehicle with some clearance," warns Tessa B. about Davis Pond.
Permit requirements: Several areas require permits for overnight stays. "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free," explains Sarah H.
Bathroom facilities: Most primitive sites lack maintained facilities. "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," notes a Hunter's Check Station Campground camper about the limited amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hikes: Select campsites with shorter trail access for young children. "Our 2 and 5 year old walked from our campsite down to the falls and back up easily, and enjoyed having a trail that led to the falls overlook for nightly post-dinner walks," shares a Foster Falls camper.
Safer camping options: Covenant View Camp and Retreat offers more structured camping with maintained facilities, drinking water, and electrical hookups suitable for families with young children.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience unexpected noise disruption. "There is a farm nearby with a rooster that spent the better part of the day crowing, which can be distracting when you have a toddler you are trying to get to sleep," warns a Foster Falls visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most primitive tent camping areas near Fort Oglethorpe have limited RV access. "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," shares Sierra Y. about Sawmill Lake.
Road approach direction: Consider your route carefully when bringing an RV. "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.
Generator restrictions: Most tent camping areas prohibit generators, making them better suited for self-contained units. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping," notes Ava R.
