Tent camping options near Helen, Georgia range from developed Forest Service campgrounds to secluded dispersed sites in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Located in the southern Appalachians at elevations between 1,500-4,000 feet, camping areas experience temperature differences of 10-15 degrees cooler than lower elevations during summer months. Sites along water sources like Wildcat Creek provide natural cooling but typically lack cell service.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 5 miles round trip. The Raven Cliff Falls trail offers a moderate hike ending at a scenic waterfall. "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. about Raven Cliff Falls.
Fly fishing: Creek access. Smithgall Woods offers dedicated fly fishing opportunities in protected waters. "With that much room to move around in North Georgia there has to be something for everyone. Great clear cold water offers good trout grounds," explains a reviewer about Smithgall Woods Campsites.
Sliding rock: Natural waterslide. The upper Wildcat Creek area features a natural rock formation creating a water slide for summer recreation. "The water is crystal clear and cool and best of all, there is a cool water slide for adults and kids to have fun and cool off with," explains a camper about Wildcat Creek Campground #2 Upper.
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles. Some camping areas provide opportunities to spot notable wildlife. "Such a cool place. We were able to just pick a spot and camp, we moved around with our hammocks and had the best time. Showers were nice, fishing was fun, the scenery is breathtaking. Sunsets are awesome. I even got to see a bald eagle flying around!" shares William S. about Owls Retreat.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Sound and comfort. Many tent campers near Helen appreciate sites positioned along creeks. "We absolutely loved being by the creek, and a lot of the sites are spread out to give a good bit of privacy," shares one camper at Raven Cliff Falls.
Summit views: Higher elevation. Blood Mountain offers unique high-point camping opportunities. "We didn't stay in the shelter and instead set up our tent near an overlook nearby. Perfect place for sunrise and sunset. It was a little buggy until the wind picked up -- it definitely cooled down at night even in the summer due to the wind," explains Renee B. about Blood Mountain Shelter.
Dispersed options: Privacy. Dispersed sites allow for greater separation between campers. "Spots are huge and spread out, great for groups as multiple cars and tents can easy fit. Makeshift fire rings and tent spots are at most sites," notes Meredith P. about Wildcat #2.
Off-grid atmosphere: Disconnection. The forest setting provides a break from technology and crowds. "This is an amazing place that I didn't know existed until I dug deeper into Dawson Forrest! Have spent a lot of time there on the driving trails but have never camped. Im glad I found this spot and will definitely go back!" shares Nathan S. about Wildcat #2.
What you should know
Bear activity: Food storage required. Bears frequently visit camping areas near Helen. "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 camper at Panther Creek Recreation Area.
Site access: Vehicle considerations. Many roads to tent camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "The area is very nice, (a little built up at the south end of W Wildcat rd.) FYI - E. Wildcat rd. Is residential, (you want W. Wildcat rd.)," clarifies a Wildcat Creek visitor.
Water sources: Limited availability. Most remote sites lack running water. "No water so get some on the way in. No cell service either. Great stargazing, lots of trees/shade and hammock spots. Hang your food and pack out your trash!" advises a Wildcat #2 camper.
Weather variability: Elevation effects. Higher elevation sites experience more significant temperature changes. "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!" notes a Blood Mountain camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water play spots: Natural recreation. Families appreciate creek-accessible sites with safe water features. "This area is great for 2 reasons- it tends to be cooler in temps in the summer because of the shade and higher elevation. The water is crystal clear and cool and best of all, there is a cool water slide for adults and kids to have fun and cool off with," explains a visitor to Indian Grave Gap Campsite.
Easy-access camping: Minimal hiking. Some sites allow vehicle access close to tent spots. "Three campsites in the immediate area. Two are on one side of the road. You have to cross thru one to get to the other. All three have creek access. Each site is huge. You can pull your car into the site easily," notes a visitor to Indian Grave Gap.
Learning opportunities: Educational elements. Some camping areas include interpretive features. "There is a visitor center with educational programs, geocaching, picnicking. Once again this is very close to wonderful Bavarian town called Helen Georgia," mentions a Smithgall Woods visitor.
Tips from RVers
Small rig accommodations: Limited options. Few tent camping areas near Helen accommodate larger vehicles. "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," shares abraham B. about Raven Cliff Falls.
Road conditions: Clearance needs. Forest roads often require higher clearance vehicles. "Seems like a beautiful place but need 4wd so we couldn't get within 0.9 miles of the campground. The mud holes are deeper than they look and road is rugged with huge rocks," warns a visitor to Low Gap.
Alternative accommodations: Beyond tenting. Some tent camping areas near Helen offer cabin options. "The location in Helen was awesome! It is remote enough to get away from the busy streets of Helen, GA. The other camp houses are near and you'll hear your neighbor occasionally, but the sites are pretty private," explains a visitor about their experience at Nacoochee Adventures.
