Rustic camping near Mount Airy, Georgia offers isolated sites accessible via forest roads throughout the lower Appalachian Mountains. Elevations range from 1,200 to 3,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines. Summer nighttime temperatures drop into the 60s even when daytime highs reach 90°F, while spring brings frequent fog and mist to the region's numerous creek drainages.
What to do
Waterfall access: High Shoals Falls Trail Dispersed camping connects to a 2.4-mile round-trip hike featuring two scenic waterfalls. "The trail contains 2 beautiful Georgia waterfalls, Blue Hole Falls and High Shoals Falls. The area is lush with mountain laurel, rhododendrons, and old-growth trees," notes Damion V., who appreciates the "cool waters of High Shoals Creek" for refreshment after hiking.
Stargazing opportunities: The Tray Mountain area provides exceptional dark sky viewing conditions. Camper Austin C. at Corbin Creek Tray Mountain reports, "Worth it if you're into astrophotography as all of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia," making it valuable for night sky enthusiasts.
Swimming holes: Creek access points throughout the region create natural swimming spots during warmer months. At Dicks Creek Falls, campers find "many spots to pull off to access the creek and a couple of trails to other set of falls," according to Lacy S., who notes these water features become "very popular in summer time."
What campers like
Creek-side sites: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at many locations. At Blackwell Bridge, camper Ethan B. shares, "One of the nice things is if you have a tent you can get right next to the water," allowing for immediate water access.
Large group accommodations: Several areas can support bigger gatherings. Gillian S. reports that at Indian Grave Gap Campsite, "Three campsites in the immediate area... All three have creek access... Each site is huge," making it suitable for families or friend groups requiring multiple tent spaces.
Fire access: Most primitive sites include established fire rings. At Soggy Boot Campground, Cooper B. describes finding "a very flat area, a fire pit, and creek surrounded by forest and mountains," providing essential elements for rustic camping near Mount Airy.
What you should know
Rough access roads: Many campsites require navigating challenging terrain. Rebecca M. at Corbin Creek Tray Mountain advises, "It's more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles, to get a spot down by the creek. But it is possible to get a full size 4*4 truck down the switch back."
Limited signage: Finding specific sites often requires persistence. At Soggy Boot Campground, Lillian R. notes, "the directions get you to the general area fine. the campsites are hard to find in the dark - we ended up just stopping at the first clearing from a fork on the gravel road."
Seasonal crowding patterns: Peak usage occurs during summer months. Lacy S. observed at Dicks Creek Falls that "It was over full last time I was there summer of 2024," suggesting weekday visits might prove easier for securing sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes for children: Natural water features provide recreational opportunities. At High Shoals Falls Trail Dispersed, the combination of "two beautiful Georgia waterfalls" and accessible water makes for kid-friendly activities during hot months.
Nearby supply access: Know where to restock when needed. Gillian S. reports, "The closest town is Hiawasee. Had a grocery and an outfitters if you need supplies," though warns restaurant options may have limited capacity.
Firewood availability: Conditions affect what you'll find on site. Austin C. advises, "Wood was a little wet as it had rained 2 days prior so might be worth bringing your own," suggesting families pack dry kindling and firewood when possible.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility considerations: Limited vehicular access restricts RV camping options. Darwin R. at Indian Grave Gap Campsite notes, "There is one site that would support a large group or even a camper (or two) if you can get them up the steep rocky hunting trail," indicating most sites work better for smaller vehicles.
Narrow road conditions: Forest service roads present challenges for larger vehicles. At Blackwell Bridge, William S. describes "a very uneven dirt road which had been graveled long ago, snaking down to the river," noting even small cars "had difficulty getting down it" with "abrupt" transitions from asphalt.
Pull-off limitations: Space constraints affect parking options. Cooper B. found that at Soggy Boot Campground, "You could easily fit 8 cars around the area," but most primitive sites accommodate far fewer vehicles, with many suitable for only 1-2 cars.
