North Georgia's Appalachian foothills surround Helen at elevations between 1,400-1,600 feet, creating ideal camping conditions from April through October when temperatures range from 50-85°F. The region's forest cover consists primarily of oak, hickory and pine trees, providing natural shade at most camping areas while maintaining proximity to Helen's Bavarian-themed attractions.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Raven Cliff Falls offers a 5-mile round-trip trail ending at dramatic rock formations. "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," notes Wayne H. at Raven Cliff Falls.
Mountain biking: Trails near Unicoi State Park accommodate riders of varying skill levels. "Great campsites with lots of hiking and biking in the area. Beautiful views!" says Jason L. at Unicoi State Park & Lodge.
Horseback riding: Guided rides available at Trackrock for all experience levels. "I also got to enjoy a lovely horseback ride on Chubby Checker with Sonya...that was the highlight of the trip for me," shares Ellen S.
Paddle sports: Lake Winfield Scott permits non-motorized boats on its small mountain lake. "It was very quiet and we had a great weekend and definitely would go again and bring out kayaks/SUPs," explains Jeffrey S. at Lake Winfield Scott Campground.
Miniature golf: Several campgrounds offer on-site courses for family fun. "They have putt putt golf, fishing pond and other amenities. Would love to stay there again," reports Bryan D. about Bald Mountain Camping Resort.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature water access for natural white noise and cooling. "We choose the walk in as the parking was still really close but there are only two of these sites. The creek runs right next to them and it was so peaceful and beautiful," shares Angela M. about Vogel State Park Campground.
Private tent sites: Raven Cliff Falls offers secluded spots away from RVs. "They're spread along the stream, in the shade and accessible by well worn paths. So you'll have to pack in your items. 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," explains D & Jess W.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain quality restrooms despite wilderness settings. "The bathhouse is far from the adult camping area, but overall it was a decent camping experience!" notes Emily S. about Enota Mountain Retreat.
Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds and organized activities keep children entertained. "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 Diane G.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings higher campground occupancy and rates. "If you want a walk-in campsite and it's the weekend, you better get there early. We arrived at dusk on a Friday and got the last walk-in site available," advises DeWayne H. about Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage prevents bear encounters. "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 D & Jess W.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. "This park is pretty remote - we couldn't even get cell service from our campsite," notes Jeffrey S. about Lake Winfield Scott.
Reservation requirements: Book early for premium sites, especially during peak seasons. "This is one of the most popular parks in GA. It is usually crowded and books quickly," explains Maggie C. about Vogel State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Seek out campgrounds with creeks or lakes for natural entertainment. "The sites have plenty of privacy. I felt very tucked away from the activities. Which there are plenty of! The lake has a beach, you can rent a kayak or paddle boat," shares Erin L.
Game areas: Multiple campgrounds include recreation spaces for active play. "We stayed on site 10 near the bathrooms (we have a 5 month old) our site had an elevated pad for the tent which was great. We brought our dog with us as well. Super lush so very shaded all around with spots of sunlight," explains Jennifer T. at Lake Winfield Scott.
Glamping options close to Helen, Georgia: Jenny's Creek Family Campground offers yurt accommodations for families wanting comfort. "We stayed the weekend in a yurt, this was our first time in a yurt. My family and I had a blast at Jenny's Creek, we will definitely be returning for vacations. The owners and staff were really friendly and welcoming," reports Jill J.
Bathroom proximity: Choose sites near facilities when camping with small children. "They also have a nice playground on site as well as a air conditioned club house they provides a nice break from the heat. They also have firewood and I've on site which is really convenient," notes Sarah S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are VERY close together, all gravel with no grass between rigs. Full hook-ups. Cable and not very good WiFi," reports 5Dudes about Bald Mountain Camping Resort.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times," warns Anthony M. about Trackrock Campground & Cabins.
Luxury glamping alternatives: Safari-style accommodations provide RV comforts without towing. "We stayed in a cabin at Unicoi State Park after our Spring Break camping trip got rained out. The fireplace was nice and we appreciated the covered parking during the downpour when arrived," shares Dana B.
Hookup availability: Water and electric sites are more common than full hookups. "We did tent camping with water and electricity. The tent sites are all either beside a creek or next to the pond. Large campsites fo tents, we could have easily had 3 tents comfortably," explains ashley about Jenny's Creek Family Campground.
