The Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Hiawassee, Georgia sit at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,700 feet, creating diverse microclimates across the region's campgrounds. Lake Chatuge, a 7,500-acre reservoir with 132 miles of shoreline, forms the centerpiece of many camping experiences near Hiawassee. Summer temperatures typically reach the low 80s during the day and drop into the 60s at night, making tent camping comfortable with minimal gear.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: 5-mile round trip on Raven Cliff Falls trail near Helen leads to spectacular cascading falls. "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 a visitor to Raven Cliff Falls.
Mountain biking: Access dedicated trails directly from Jackrabbit Mountain Campground. "The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are absolutely amazing for all skill levels," reports a camper at Jackrabbit Mountain. A connector trail leads directly from the campground to the trail system, eliminating the need to drive.
Swimming in mountain lakes: Lake Winfield Scott offers a designated beach area for swimming in clean mountain water. A camper describes it as "a gorgeous little lake with nice walking trails. Clean bathrooms and super nice campground host." The lake prohibits motorized boats, keeping the water peaceful for swimmers.
Appalachian Trail access: Connect to the famous hiking route from several nearby campgrounds. "It has a trail that connects to the AT so you may meet some hikers bound for Maine or may want to make it a stop on a longer AT hike," notes a visitor to Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area.
What campers like
Creekside camping: Fall asleep to flowing water at many sites throughout the region. At Bald Mountain Camping Resort, "Our spot was by a creek which was so soothing to listen to. They have putt putt golf, fishing pond and other amenities." Sites along creeks often fill quickly during peak season.
Waterfront access: Camp directly on Lake Chatuge with sites that offer private water access. "Our campsite was 13A which is right on the water. Gravel tent site is very large. Picnic table and fire ring. Parking is right above the steps that go down to the tent pad. This site has direct water access for swimming and fishing," explains a visitor to Jackrabbit Mountain.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise from campers. "Beautiful campground. Everything is clean and well maintained. Bathrooms are kept nice and clean. Campsites are gravel with full hook ups and a campfire ring," notes a visitor at Bald Mountain Camping Resort.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer better separation than others. At Trackrock Campground, "First time renting a teardrop trailer and camping in it, lot was tricky for us to back into but we managed and the set up was great with a fire ring, picnic table, potable water and hook up. Also a great view."
What you should know
Limited services during off-season: Many campgrounds operate seasonally from April through November. "We've been camping here for years with our kids. It's gorgeous during the fall season & the trails connect to the Appalachian trail... FYI if there too early in spring the bathrooms will be locked up & only option becomes an outhouse," warns a camper at Lake Winfield Scott.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active throughout the region. "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," cautions a visitor to Vogel State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Lake Winfield Scott, a camper notes, "This park is pretty remote - we couldn't even get cell service from our campsite." Prepare maps and information in advance.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during fall color season. "It is usually crowded and books quickly. Sites are VERY close together. No privacy at all," reports a camper about Vogel State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds keep children entertained. A visitor to Vogel State Park reports, "Two separate children's playgrounds exist, not too far from one another. One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area."
Budget-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with included recreational facilities. At Unicoi State Park, "We had a blast here. The sites are beautiful and there is tons to do nearby," while another camper notes, "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."
Safe water play: Creeks provide endless entertainment for children. "The creek runs right next to them and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The trails along the lake were nice and the dogs enjoyed it," mentions a visitor to Vogel State Park.
Tent camping with kids: Choose sites close to restrooms. "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," reports a Lake Winfield Scott camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven, tight sites. "Gravel roads have some ruts, but posted 10mph works," notes a Trackrock visitor, while another warns, "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times."
Hookup availability varies: Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others provide only basic services. At Cherokee Campground, "Nice level lots. Very quiet. The owner is a great person. The bath house is a little dated but always spotless."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options are limited. Bald Mountain Camping Resort operates from April 1 to November 1, making summer and fall the prime seasons for glamping near Hiawassee, Georgia.
