Tent campers visiting Oakwood, Georgia can access several primitive campsites within the Chattahoochee National Forest, located approximately 30-45 minutes north in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area features elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,400 feet, creating diverse microclimates for camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall can see overnight temperatures drop into the 40s with occasional frost at higher elevations.
What to do
Waterfall hiking at Raven Cliff Falls: The 5-mile round trip trail offers varying terrain with several stream crossings and culminates at a dramatic waterfall. A visitor noted, "Raven Cliff Falls trail is a 2.5 miles hike that ends at a breathtaking waterfall, but the trail doesn't quite end there. Once you arrive at the falls there's plenty of room to roam the dozens of rock structures."
Mountain views at Blood Mountain Shelter: Experienced hikers can access panoramic vistas from one of Georgia's highest points on the Appalachian Trail. According to a camper, "We hiked up to Blood Mountain from the Byron Reese Trailhead. We didn't stay in the shelter and instead set up our tent near an overlook nearby. Perfect place for sunrise and sunset."
Fishing at Laurel Park: Access Lake Lanier's shoreline for bank fishing. A visitor mentions, "It has plenty of access to Lake Lanier, and plenty of room for grilling out."
Day trip to mountain towns: Use Two Wheels of Suches as a base camp to explore nearby Helen and Dahlonega, both within 30 minutes. A camper explains, "TWO has a great location at the convergence of many great roads... The property is well planned and maintained."
What campers like
Creek-side camping options: Many primitive sites sit adjacent to flowing water. One Raven Cliff Falls visitor shared, "We camped along the creek at one of these sites. We absolutely loved being by the creek, and a lot of the sites are spread out to give a good bit of privacy."
Accessibility of walk-in sites: Not all good tent camping requires strenuous hikes. A camper at Raven Cliff Falls explained, "If you arrive in the dark while it's pouring rain... Upon turning off the main road into the Raven Cliff Falls area there's a trail on the right prior to the bridge. This trail leads to a few tent campsites."
Shelter system access: The Appalachian Trail shelters provide backup options during inclement weather. A visitor at Springer Mountain Shelter wrote, "It's a three sided, wooden cabin-like structure with a big stone step to get inside. Simple in nature, it's a big open room with a loft where you throw down for the night."
Established fire rings: Most primitive sites feature stone fire rings for safe cooking and warmth. A visitor noted, "Our spot was about a quarter mile from the parking area which has public restrooms available, and we were right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night. There was plenty of room for multiple tents and hammocks, and we had a nice stone fire ring to cook on."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Bear encounters are common in the region. A camper at Raven Cliff Falls reported, "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out. So pack out all food items and trash or hang a bear bag."
Limited water access: Many sites require water filtration from streams, while some higher elevations have no water sources. A Blood Mountain visitor cautioned, "While most AT shelters have a bathroom nearby, this one doesn't. Also there isn't any water available."
Cell service gaps: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region, particularly at higher elevations and in valleys. At Woody Gap Campground, a camper mentioned having to disconnect completely, stating "Great location for camping, tent or hammock. After a long day hike, it's a great spot for the night."
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly, with wind being particularly notable. One camper described their Blood Mountain experience: "It was a little buggy until the wind picked up -- it definitely cooled down at night even in the summer due to the wind so make sure you set up in a spot with a windbreak or bring layers!"
Tips for camping with families
Proximity options: For the best tent camping near Oakwood, Georgia with children, consider sites closer to parking areas. A reviewer at Raven Cliff Falls noted, "You'll find numerous dispersed sites, some of which you can park next to, some you'll have to carry your things in approximately 20 yards."
Splash pad access: During summer months, consider James Shackleford Memorial Park as a cooling-off destination. A visitor mentioned, "It was very peaceful nice people was able to find plenty of outdoor stuff to do."
Tent site selection: Look for flat, stone-free areas at established sites. A visitor to Raven Cliff Falls advised, "We enjoyed camping here and will definitely return. It feels like a very primitive spot with the ease of car camping. You have the choice to walk in further but it accommodates all campers."
Timing for best sites: During peak season (March-November), arrive early for creek-side spots. "This campground is gorgeous and free. There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Oakwood is tent-focused with minimal RV facilities. A visitor to Hembree Park explained, "It's not an RV park, they said there's a little section of the park for RV but no hookups of any kind."
Small rig consideration: RVs under 26 feet can access certain areas. A visitor to Raven Cliff Falls reported, "We stayed in the parking lot in our small rig. (Under 26 ft) we had our super quiet generator running and had no issues. Stayed overnight and then went on the 5 mile hike to see the different water falls."
Day use for RVers: Some areas better suit day visits rather than overnight stays. At Buford Dam Park Shelters, a visitor noted, "This is a nice place to just come and stroll around for a bit. Parking is close to the street and paths go down to the lakeside... Parking is off of the main road and there is not a lot of room for oversized vehicles."
