Near Lula, Georgia, camping options extend through the foothills of the Chattahoochee Mountains, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,300 feet. The region features several waterways including Dukes Creek, Panther Creek, and Dodd Creek that flow through many camping areas. Temperatures vary significantly between day and night, with summer daytime highs averaging 85°F and evening temperatures dropping to 60-65°F even in peak season.
What to do
Waterfall hikes with camping access: Panther Creek Recreation Area offers a 7-mile round trip trail leading to stunning falls where you can cool off after hiking. According to one camper at Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping: "The falls are very accessible and are great to cool down in after a good hike. Its been about 7 or 8 years since my last trip and I definitely plan on going back someday."
Fly fishing opportunities: Several streams in the area support trout populations, particularly at Smithgall Woods Campsites where a visitor noted: "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. Biking is a wonderful since a long stretch of hiking is fully paved."
Off-trail adventures: The forestry roads connect many camping areas to trails, creating opportunities for extended exploration. At Raven Cliff Falls, campers can find numerous dispersed sites along the access roads. One reviewer explained: "If these sites don't do it for you, you can go down the Dead End road. You'll find numerous dispersed sites, some of which you can park next to, some you'll have to carry your things in approximately 20yards."
What campers like
Creek-side sleeping spots: Many tent campers specifically seek sites near water sources for both convenience and ambiance. At Raven Cliff Falls, one camper shared: "We absolutely loved being by the creek, and a lot of the sites are spread out to give a good bit of privacy. We were visited by a bear two of the nights."
Well-maintained trails: The trail systems connecting camping areas receive regular maintenance, making them accessible for most skill levels. A visitor to Panther Creek noted: "The trail is well maintained and always clean. Lots of great views here! The falls are a great spot to string up a hammock and just enjoy nature to the fullest."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The foothills region supports diverse wildlife, including bears, deer, and various bird species. At Owls Retreat Campground, a camper reported: "The wildlife was amazing and we saw two bald eagles. The just was very laid back made us feel totally comfortable."
What you should know
Bear activity requires preparation: Bears frequently visit camping areas, requiring specific food storage practices. A Raven Cliff Falls camper warned: "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."
Weekend crowding at popular spots: Many camping areas fill quickly on weekends, especially during summer months. As one visitor to Blood Mountain Shelter on the Appalachian Trail mentioned: "The tent spots aren't really the greatest - the few flat spots get taken pretty early and there really is only a few."
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal to no cellular connectivity. A Raven Cliff Falls visitor noted: "For anyone who's never camped at this location, the campsites are located in a few places (keep reading) which isn't listed on the map by the (vault) toilets, no running water other than the creek, and NO CELL SERVICE."
Campsite locations vary significantly: Many camping areas have multiple camping zones not obvious from maps or parking areas. One Raven Cliff Falls camper explained: "Upon turning off the main road into the Raven Cliff Falls area there's a trail on the right prior to the bridge. This trail leads to a few tent campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible waterfall options: For families, consider camping areas with shorter trails to water features. At Nacoochee Adventures, one visitor shared: "The treehouse is nice and shaded with a fire ring, a hammock, and a path to a small creek. There is an outhouse nearby but they leave a special door open at the main house for you to access bathrooms and showers via the golf cart 24/7."
Educational opportunities: Several camping areas provide nature programs or historical sites to visit. Near Helen, a camper noted: "We walked across the road and visited the Hardman Farm, a DNR run site with the old Hardman home and buildings across from the famed Indian mound."
Transportation considerations: Some family-friendly campgrounds provide transportation options for gear. At Nacoochee Adventures, a visitor mentioned: "To our surprise, they gave us an off road golf cart with our treehouse to transport our stuff up the mountain to our site. If you ask, they will give you directions on how to drive your cart through the trails."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping near Lula offers minimal amenities for RVs, with many sites requiring walk-in access. At Woody Gap Campground, a visitor noted: "Great location for camping, tent or hammock. After a long day hike, it's a great spot for the night. Water near by."
Day-use parking alternatives: RV users often need to use day-use parking areas rather than camp directly at sites. A Raven Cliff Falls visitor shared: "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."
Electrical hookups at select locations: A few developed campgrounds offer limited electrical service. Laurel Park in Gainesville provides some hookups, though one camper mentioned: "We arrived late at night. The campground was on cemented floor, which we did not realize till we got there. Regardless, we appreciate the hot water in the bathroom."
