Tent campsites near Morganton, Georgia can be found throughout the densely forested mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,400 feet. The region receives approximately 60 inches of rainfall annually, creating reliable water sources in creeks and springs throughout the camping areas. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s at night while summer brings highs in the 80s with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Raven Cliff Falls, a 2.5-mile trail leads to 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.
Fish in stocked ponds: Henson Cove Private Campground offers a large fishing area on private land. According to Ron C., the property includes "Almost 200 acres of land owned by the same family for over a 100 years. Giant stocked pond to fish in."
Explore dirt roads: The forest service roads near camping areas provide additional recreational opportunities. At Raven Cliff Falls, "There is plenty of room for group camping at both the walk-in and hike to sites. The trail is also pet friendly so you get to see a lot of pups on the trail," says DeWayne H.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Many campers appreciate the reliable springs. At Your Toccoa River Cove, campers enjoy "a spring you can drink straight out of, and streams criss-crossing the entire area if you want the rugged feeling of purifying your own water," according to Stephanie J.
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of tent camping near Morganton creates natural separation. Everette G. says of Your Toccoa River Cove, "We camped under the shelter for a little over a week twice. There is plenty of dirt road hiking as well as property to explore in the area."
Reliable restroom facilities: Despite being in remote locations, many sites maintain basic facilities. At Hickory Flatts Cemetery, William W. reports, "There are bathrooms, with four toilets... no running water or electricity. There is a fire ring, but you need to bring in your own firewood. A picnic Pavilion shed is like a 40ft x 60ft shelter."
What you should know
Bear activity requirements: Food storage is essential in this region. At Raven Cliff Falls, campers experienced wildlife 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.
Water availability varies: Most sites require bringing or filtering water. At Blood Mountain Shelter, Maria A. notes, "While most AT shelters have a bathroom nearby, this one doesn't. Also there isn't any water available."
Terrain challenges: Many tent sites require adaptation to uneven ground. At Blood Mountain Shelter, campers report, "The tent spots aren't really the greatest - the few flat spots get taken pretty early and there really is only a few. We ended up sleeping at an angle and pretty uncomfortably considering the rocky terrain."
Tips for camping with families
Seek sites with water play: Children particularly enjoy campsites near shallow creeks. Stephanie J. shared about Your Toccoa River Cove: "Is there water to play in? This is a question my kids ask about almost every campground we go to... once we got to the Toccoa River Cove, all of us realized that 'yes' really meant, 'this is a phenomenal wonderland we will never want to leave.'"
Consider walk-in distance: With children, site accessibility becomes important. At Raven Cliff Falls, D & Jess W. explain, "If you arrive in the dark while it's pouring rain... 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."
Check for group facilities: Camp Woodruff Boy Scout Summer Camp offers structured camping opportunities. Ethan shares, "One of the best campgrounds, hands down. As an Eagle Scout from around this area, this was our go-to place for summer camp and occasional other camping trips as well. With a large lake, open field, and well maintained roads and accommodations."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest service roads are unsuitable for larger vehicles. At Your Toccoa River Cove, Stephanie J. cautions, "The driveway down to the shelter is very steep, and does not allow much space to turn around. RVs or larger trucks will not fit, and per the owner only one vehicle may park at the base of the driveway at a time."
Overnight parking options: Some areas allow RV parking without hookups. Abraham B. notes about Raven Cliff Falls, "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."
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited connectivity. Melissa R. reports about Your Toccoa River Cove: "If you have AT&T cell service you're out of luck (or a blessing) because it will not work here... but it does work once you go back out into the road some."
