The landscape surrounding Kingston, Georgia features rolling Appalachian foothills with dispersed camping opportunities throughout the Chattahoochee National Forest's mixed hardwood ecosystem. Roads accessing these campsites often require extra clearance, with many tent camping spots situated at elevations between 800-1,500 feet. Weather conditions typically include humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters that can drop below freezing at night.
What to do
Cave exploration: 5-minute walk from Sawmill Lake Campsite, where a visitor noted, "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking."
Paddling opportunities: Limited cell service at Ridgeway recreational area makes it ideal for disconnecting. A camper recommends: "Put in, go right short paddle to Waterfall. Go left into the unknown. Everything's at a 65% slant. $5 to park. Far off the hwy."
Stargazing: $10 nightly fee at Woodring Branch Primitive Campground gives access to exceptional night skies. One visitor shared, "We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world."
What campers like
Site privacy: Varying availability at Little River Adventure Company, where campers appreciate the layout. One reviewer mentioned, "It's completely different than any other campground we've been to in the sense that the campsites are secluded and private."
Water access: Multiple options for getting to water features. A camper at Woodring Branch Primitive Campground shared, "The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept. It was quiet, beautiful, and an absolute slice of heaven. We went swimming and exploring."
Free camping: Budget-friendly sites in the area require self-sufficiency. A visitor to Sawmill Lake Campsite said, "There are several man-made fire pits, and plenty of wood and brush lying around to scavenge for fire-making. There are no water hookups, so make sure to pack plenty of water with you."
What you should know
Access challenges: High-clearance vehicles recommended for many sites. A camper at Hidden Creek Campground advised, "GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is... LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES."
Permit requirements: Check before arrival as some sites require permits. At Sawmill Lake Campsite, one camper noted, "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60."
Facilities: Plan accordingly for limited amenities. A visitor to Hidden Creek Campground shared, "A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Tips for camping with families
Choose site location strategically: Consider proximity to restrooms and other facilities. At Woodring Branch, a family noted, "I love that this was a tent only camping site (no RVs). The sites were a bit smaller than I would have liked but as it was just the 10 sites on the road, the kids could safely play in the road."
Pack extra water supplies: No potable water at most primitive sites near Kingston. A camper at Sawmill Lake mentioned, "There are no water hookups, so make sure to pack plenty of water with you."
Bring portable toilet: Bathroom access limited at many locations. One camper at Serenity Ridge found their accommodations included necessary basics: "You don't need camping gear. A tent or two can be set up, ready for you. Cooler stocked with ice. Firewood stacked by the fire pit, ready for you to roast hotdogs or s'mores!"
Tips from RVers
Road approach direction matters: Scout ahead when bringing larger vehicles. A camper at Sawmill Lake Campsite advised, "If you have a trailer or rv I recommend coming in from the west direction, if you can tell from maps. The east way had 180 degree sharp turns up the mountain, so may be difficult."
Extended stays possible: Long-term camping options exist at some locations. One RVer shared about Sawmill Lake: "Stayed 13 days. I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. There were a few people that stayed in a tent for a night or two here and there, but I didn't see any other RV/Campers."
Tree hazards: Monitor weather conditions during your stay. The same RVer at Sawmill Lake warned, "Trees fall easily so if it's windy be careful where you park."
