598 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Helen spans full-service state parks with RV hookups and tent pads to primitive dispersed sites along forest service roads. Unicoi State Park, just two miles from Helen's Bavarian-themed downtown, serves as a central hub with over 130 campsites including RV hookups, tent pads, and unique "barrel cabins." The Chattahoochee National Forest encompasses much of the region, offering developed campgrounds like Andrews Cove and Upper Chattahoochee River Campground, both within 15 minutes of Helen. Dispersed camping options exist at Raven Cliff Falls and along forest service roads, while private retreats like Enota Mountain Retreat provide glamping alternatives with on-site waterfalls.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Helen area. Many state park campgrounds remain open year-round, though facilities like Moccasin Creek operate seasonally from March through November. As one camper noted, "When we visited in winter it was a solid basecamp with little frills, but not far from Helen for day trips into town." Summer brings higher humidity and temperatures in the 80s-90s°F, while fall offers comfortable days and cooler nights, coinciding with Helen's popular Oktoberfest celebrations. Weekends and holidays see campgrounds fill quickly, particularly waterfront sites. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, with state parks booking up to 13 months in advance for popular periods.
Water access represents a defining feature of camping in the Helen area, with creeks and rivers flowing through many campgrounds. "Our site was right on the creek. Anna Ruby Falls connects to the area," reported one visitor to Unicoi State Park. Trout fishing opportunities abound in the Chattahoochee River and Smith Creek, with several campgrounds positioned for easy angler access. Hiking trails connect many camping areas to waterfalls, including Anna Ruby Falls and Raven Cliff Falls. The proximity to Helen's attractions proves convenient for campers seeking amenities, with one reviewer noting, "It is remote enough to get away from the busy streets of Helen, GA. Small creek nearby so you can hear the water running at night." When searching for the best campgrounds near Helen, visitors will find top-rated camping sites offering the perfect combination of mountain views, water features, and proximity to town's Bavarian charm. Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region.
"Unicoi State Park is a large Park in north Georgia. The Park has a Lake, rope courses, a restaurant, lounge and beautiful Lodge."
"Unicoi State Park is just two miles from Helen GA. It is a convenient location for visiting there, particularly in fall during the town’s Octoberfest."
"Vogel State Park is hands down one of the nicest parks in Georgia. It has great hiking trails for every level of hiker, and a very beautiful lake that's great for fishing and paddling."
"There is also a small lake with a beach and a boat rental. You can walk around the lake and visit a waterfall. The area is very beautiful and a hikers paradise."
from $30 - $260 / night
Check Availability"Raven Cliff Falls is another popular spot in Northeast Georgia. Its on one one of the most scenic highways and s in a great location if you want to venture into Helen, Brasstown, Bald, or Hiawassee."
"There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends. There is water and bathroom access."
"Many hiking opportunities in the park and surrounding areas. It is 1099 stairs to the bottom of canyon!Campground was nice. Sites are open and unlevel but most were a good size."
"Tallulah Gorge is located in the far north east corner of Georgia. The campground is pretty tight, and difficult to maneuver with a large RV."
from $36 - $45 / night
Check Availability"It was pretty close to the road but we were not bothered by the traffic. The tents needed to be set up on the gravel. There were also electricity and water hookups on each site available."
"We were at site 18 and had a lake view. There is a trout stream for kids that is periodically stocked and it was a quick drive to Helen."
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Great campground surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia mountains. Also a working horse farm so be sure and schedule a guided horseback ride. Full hookup sites that are private."
"Good sized campground tucked into the mountains. I brought my dog with me and had a great time. There is a lake that you can fish in, stables to ride horses, and hiking trails on the campground."
"Awesome spot about 20 min from Helen GA. Back your vehicle right up to your spot for easy unloading and using your vehicle for extra space for whatever. We tent camped right along the river."
"We stayed at the adult tent site 74 which is really close to one of the waterfalls."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"We chatted about travel and places to go not just her in Georgia but also around the United States."
"The highest state park in Georgia has two general camping sections with power and water (and free cable if you're so inclined to hook up to watch TV)."
from $20 - $255 / night
Check Availability"Andrews Cove Campground is a small and peaceful campground located about 6 miles north of Helen, Georgia in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest."
"This is a great spot if you'd like to do some free camping in Helen! Decent-sized sites that are private and surrounded by trees."
from $12 - $18 / night
Check Availability"Just outside Helen, this site offers great spots and plenty of area to hike and explore. Great for tent camping and even some RVs and pull-behinds."
"I love the seclusion of it, tucked deep in the Chattahoochee. There are a few campsites along the water. Facilities consist of a hand pump/flush toilet and water well, no showers."
from $12 / night
Check Availability
GuideIt is difficult to find a spot. It appears a lot of unhoused people live here full time. There is a lot of trash littering the trees and down by the lake. There is good cell service and overall it is a nice area.
GuideWe have been here a few times and love it. The hosts are kind and check on everyone throughout the day. There is a lot of room between the camp sites. There is a lot to do in the area. The bathrooms are clean and grounds well maintained.
GuideWe have been to this location several times and never had a bad experience. The staff are wonderful. The grounds are well maintained. The environment is beautiful. Kids are safe and there is a lot for everyone to do.
RangerEnjoyed a week long stay in late July, being at a higher elevation the weather was great. Sunny and comfortable during the day and cool crisp evenings in the 60's.
The access road is a bit steep but wasn't too bad for our RAM 4x4 pulling a 21 ft. trailer.
There are some larger sites but many of them are on the short side so be sure to confirm it will be deep enough for your needs before reserving.
I have to give a big kudos for the volunteer camp hosts on site, one night at dark there was a storm/tornada watch issues and the hosts and park ranger went to every site and advised everyone to seek shelter in the bathhouses.
The storm passed in about an hour and everyone was safe, but it is GREAT to know that the staff responded in a professional manner to assure everyone's safety.
Loved our stay, everyone was friendly and pleasant, hope we can get back again soon.
ScoutI haven’t finished my stay but so far so good… It has all the basics that are needed. Toilet, shower, drinking water… The noise is minimal and what should be expected at a campground. The staff are very attentive. A storm rolled through and they were through right as it was over to make sure everyone was alright.
TravelerOriginally intended to do some car camping after a day of hiking but I ended up reserving a camp site and grabbing a tent from a near by Walmart and I enjoyed every minute of it. This may not matter to most but it may matter to some...I am a black male and although I didn't see many people that looked like me, everyone was extremely friendly. Definitely got a lot more attention than I would have liked but at least I knew pple were looking out for me lol. Beautiful scenery, fun trails, fishing, a full outdoor experience.
ScoutWe rented Andy’s RV and had a great time! Unfortunately the weather didn’t cooperate until the end of our trip, but the camper was superb. Fully stocked with everything we needed - even the makings for s’mores. If you’re looking for a campground with lots of amenities, this is not for you. If you want a great, peaceful place to stay on the river, it’s perfect. Nearby attractions in Franklin and Cherokee. 5+ stars!!
TravelerThis KOA is a really nice CG. It’s nestled in a valley and surrounded by by mountains. Full service with a nice pool, camp store,clean bath houses/restrooms and lots to do for kids . Our site was along the creek. Very peaceful and loved hearing the water. Lots of mixed use, long term RV’s, cabin rentals and tent sites. The CG was s very large and most sites are close to one another, not much privacy but that’s what State Park CG’s are for. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Great WiFi here, very solid signal during our visit.
TravelerThis site has become a tradition to visit for a week once a year. I love this location.
The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounds Helen, Georgia at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 4,700 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the year. Nights in higher elevation campgrounds like Vogel State Park can drop 15-20°F cooler than nearby valleys, even during summer months. Many local campgrounds feature both developed sites with hookups and walk-in tent sites with proximity to trout streams.
Waterfall hikes: 5 miles round trip to Raven Cliff Falls. The trail follows a creek the entire way, providing access to multiple cascades. "The trail has some great views and different terrain from small creek crossings to some steep hills and valleys," reports a camper at Raven Cliff Falls.
Fish for trout: Stocked waters available for specific age groups. "They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older. This park is a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," notes a visitor to Moccasin Creek State Park.
Mountain biking: Multiple trail systems within minutes of campsites. A visitor at Unicoi State Park mentions, "A lot of activities to do! Mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, etc. Will definitely be returning in the future!"
Creek-side sites: Natural white noise for sleeping. At Andrews Cove Campground, campers appreciate that "a creek runs through the middle so you hear water all night and it covers up how close you are to the road."
Secluded options: Walk-in sites offer more privacy. "There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends," explains a Raven Cliff Falls visitor, noting that trail side sites are "harder to access but maybe a better alternative to the main camping area."
Proximity to town: Quick access to supplies and attractions. Campers at Upper Chattahoochee River Campground value that "you're only a short drive from town, food, and shopping. A great way to spend part of your day while otherwise isolated in the woods for some unplugging."
Cell service is limited or non-existent in many areas. A visitor to Enota Mountain Retreat observed, "My favorite thing about this place is that there is no cell service (I have Verizon so it may be different for others)."
Bear activity requires proper food storage. "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," warns a Raven Cliff Falls camper.
Primitive sites often lack amenities. "This is a primitive campground with a picnic table, lantern pole and a firepit with a grate. It is pack in-pack out as there are no trashcans or dumpsters," explains an Andrews Cove camper.
Weekend crowds can be intense. "This campground is small, with only 53 Tent & RV Sites. And most people have extra trailers for boats which makes getting around a challenge sometimes," notes a Moccasin Creek visitor.
Consider barrel cabins for novice campers: "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake," shares a visitor to Unicoi State Park.
Check for kid-friendly amenities: "This park is very kid friendly. They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older," reports a Moccasin Creek State Park camper.
Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities: A visitor to Tallulah Gorge State Park notes, "You can also walk to the day use area from campground which has a trail and beach picnic area."
Assess site size before booking: At Vogel State Park, "Sites are spaced reasonably, but with tall, mature trees, although you do see and hear your neighbors. In fact, you see and hear your neighbors half a dozen sites away."
Higher elevation parks have tight turns: "The road is a steep grade up to the campground. There are several overlooks on the way," warns a camper at Black Rock Mountain State Park.
Consider site leveling needs: "Sites are gravel with table, grill, water, and electric. Campground is very hilly," reports a Tallulah Gorge visitor.
Plan for limited dumping facilities: Many smaller campgrounds near Helen don't offer sanitary dump stations, so plan accordingly. "The campground hosts are awesome. As soon as campers leave they swoop in and clean it like it's a hotel room," notes a Moccasin Creek camper about site maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tent camping options are available near Helen, Georgia?
Unicoi Gap Dispersed offers free primitive tent camping just minutes from Helen and local wineries. These secluded sites provide creek-side camping with privacy from neighbors. For a more unique experience, Nacoochee Adventures offers tent camping in a remote location away from Helen's busy streets. While you may occasionally hear neighbors, the sites remain private, and you'll enjoy the peaceful sound of a small creek running nearby at night.
What are the best campgrounds near Helen, Georgia for families?
Unicoi State Park & Lodge is ideal for families, located just 2 miles from Helen. The park offers zipline adventures, hiking trails, swimming, playgrounds, and paddle boats on its lake. Families can easily visit Helen for tubing, shopping, and dining. Another excellent family option is Don Carter State Park Campground, situated on Lake Lanier. This clean, well-maintained park provides easy access from Atlanta and features water recreation opportunities for kids and adults alike.
Where can I find riverside camping in Helen, Georgia?
Appalachian Campground offers excellent riverside camping with a stream running alongside multiple campsites. It includes bathrooms and showers, and is conveniently located near trout fishing spots. For a more secluded experience, Enota Mountain Retreat provides riverside tent camping about 20 minutes from Helen. You can back your vehicle right up to your spot along the river, making for easy unloading and extra space.
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