Best Campgrounds near Mountain City, GA

The mountainous terrain surrounding Mountain City, Georgia features diverse camping options within the Chattahoochee National Forest and nearby state parks. Black Rock Mountain State Park, the highest elevation state park in Georgia, offers developed campsites with electric hookups and cabin accommodations about 10 miles from Mountain City. Tallulah Gorge State Park provides year-round camping with full hookup options alongside dramatic canyon views. Primitive camping can be found at nearby Sarah's Creek Campground in the national forest, while private options like Willow Valley RV Resort cater to those seeking more amenities. The region straddles the Georgia-North Carolina-South Carolina borders, creating a tri-state camping destination with options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks.

Steep mountain roads and variable weather conditions affect camping experiences throughout the year. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with Black Rock Mountain closing from mid-December through mid-March. According to one camper at Black Rock Mountain, "Keep in mind this is the highest peak in Georgia so everything is on an incline." Summer brings hot, humid conditions with afternoon thunderstorms common. As one visitor noted, "It was a bit humid and warm, which is no surprise for a North Georgia summer, but still well worth the peace and relaxation." Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with higher elevations generally offering better connectivity. Bear activity requires proper food storage at all campgrounds in the region, particularly at more remote sites.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Mountain City area. Creekside sites at Three Forks Campground are particularly sought after, with one camper noting, "All of the sites are situated along a creek, and a fair distance from each other." Campgrounds near lakes and rivers tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with some state park facilities placing sites close together while forest service campgrounds offer more seclusion. Visitors frequently mention waterfalls as highlights of the camping experience, with many campgrounds providing direct access to waterfall trails. The region's significant elevation changes create diverse microclimates, allowing campers to escape summer heat by selecting higher elevation campgrounds where evening temperatures drop considerably.

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Best Camping Sites Near Mountain City, Georgia (556)

    1. Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    Rabun Gap, GA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (706) 746-2141

    $20 - $255 / night

    "We chatted about travel and places to go not just her in Georgia but also around the United States."

    "The highest state park in Georgia has two general camping sections with power and water (and free cable if you're so inclined to hook up to watch TV)."

    2. Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Tallulah Falls, GA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 754-7981

    $36 - $45 / night

    "Tallulah Gorge is located in the far north east corner of Georgia. The campground is pretty tight, and difficult to maneuver with a large RV."

    "It’s perfectly situated to visit all the cute towns in northern Georgia and they have well maintained sites, hiking trails, and a swim beach not far."

    3. Oconee State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "There are primitive, walk-in sites that had the benefit of added privacy, but with 3 little kids, bathroom proximity was a higher priority this time around. "

    "There are multiple cabins scattered around the lake but they are a good distance apart from each other so you won't be disturbed by your neighbors."

    4. River Falls at the Gorge

    22 Reviews
    Lakemont, GA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 754-0292

    "Located right on the River in Lakemont GA. This campground is in a perfect location next to lots of trails, waterfalls and amenities. The campground itself has an indoor and outdoor pool."

    "Full hook ups in A section and then plenty more around the camp ground that offer all but sewage.
    1 video of the gorge which is really close by and a nice hike"

    5. Moccasin Creek State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Tiger, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 947-3194

    $40 - $45 / night

    "We stayed in site 5 which is close to bathrooms but not too close. We had a beautiful view of the lake and our site was right next to the river."

    "Its right next to the trout hatchery and Lake Burton so you have great access to recreation on the water."

    6. Standing Indian Campground

    19 Reviews
    Otto, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 524-6441

    $26 - $100 / night

    "The entrance to this park is right across the street to an entrance to the Appalachian Trail. A beautiful trout stream runs through the park, close to all the campsites."

    "Our site was about 30 feet away from the Nantahala river. The bathrooms and showers were spotless. Keep in mind that it’s far from any store or restaurant so bring food along. No cell service."

    7. Willow Valley RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Mountain City, GA
    1 mile
    Website

    $59 - $89 / night

    "Many things to do around town close by"

    "Reasonable size dog park, dog walk and outside dog bath. Lots of trees, very clean and trash pickup at your site."

    8. Sarah's Creek Campground (Clayton, Ga) — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Sky Valley, GA
    7 miles

    $10 / night

    "Access to the campground is a narrow partially-paved but well-maintained single lane road with only one area to pull over, so be careful when entering and exiting because if you meet another vehicle one"

    "Definitely not a road to drive for those who aren't skilled in off road driving.

    We stayed in one of the back sites near the creek (I can't recall the number). Most of the sites were VERY secluded."

    9. Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    50 Reviews
    Helen, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 878-2201

    "The tent camp site was good, bathrooms and water were a close walking distance.
    We picked this state park for all the activities. We took archery lessons and did the zip line course."

    "Nestled in pristine North Georgia mountains. Good for single, family or even group campers. Close to a wonderful Bavarian town know as Helen Georgia."

    10. Burrells Ford

    18 Reviews
    Highlands, SC
    16 miles
    Website

    "Our plan was to start on the north end of River trail and hike for a few days camping in between. The Ranger there sold us a map of the trail since the ones online were not so great."

    "Arrived to parking lot with bathroom (outhouse) with about a mile walk to campsites and river. We found semi secluded campsite beside the river equipped with firepit lantern post."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 556 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Mountain City, GA

2417 Reviews of 556 Mountain City Campgrounds


  • Alden B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Ash Grove Mountain Cabins & Camping

    Very Nice camping near Dupont National Forest

    If you want close access to Dupont and Pisga NF you're within minutes! The owners Mark & Esther are wonderful. We call him SouthSide Mark ( hails from South Africa). Some sites are a little tight, but fine. If you have a big rig call ahead. The cabin was wonderful. The bathhouse is older but very clean. You can tell the owners love their campers and property. The site is tree covered and hilly. We will come again, guaranteed! Watch your step. Wood Spirits are Everywhere!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Corbin Creek Tray Mountain

    Best off grid camping

    This is by far my favorite place we’ve been off grid camping. 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.

  • Doug S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Persimmon Creek RV Park

    Beautiful Little Camp Ground

    Persimmon Creek is a beautiful and peaceful place. The owner is very friendly and helpful. It is centrally located to some great attractions.

  • Cassondra P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    River Falls at the Gorge

    Not a $96 a night Campground

    We have traveled all across the country and are willing to pay for premium sites when we get our moneys worth with site and campground. This campground feels like it was nice at one time but really starting to show its age and wear. Our site was beautiful on River but our sewer hook up was not where we could access it so only had water/electric. Staff was not very friendly, I had asked about moving and they weren’t having it. The laundry room only had 2 working machines. The pool was cloudy and not very clean. The showers I could make eye contact with the neighbor.

    If this was a 40-50 a night campground I would have different expectations.

  • Mandi R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Fort Wilderness RV Park

    Just passing theough

    The staff was friendly enough. The credit card machine wasn’t working, luckily I had cash. It’s more like a mobile home park not a campground. It was very quiet though.

  • Alisha L.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Morganton Point Campground

    Great spot!

    We had a great time and loved this campground. Our site had a view of the water with the leaves off the trees and a little trail down to the water. A little close our neighbors but not terrible, for the most part felt private. Would go again!

  • Norma
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Sweetwater Sights

    Beautiful Refreshing Peaceful Great Lovation

    This campground is a wonderful place to renew your energy and zest for life. The location offers short travel time to waterfalls, lakes, music, art, and history. Staying at the peaceful campground, visiting with other campers, the view with a stream, fire pits and all nature has to offer is just as rewarding as venturing out. We plan to rerun each summer. The owners have truly created something special.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    Gorgeous view

    I believe every site is lake front. The view of the lake is amazing and perfect. Some sites have little beaches for access to the water. Others have rocks if you want to make your way down those. Mine had rocks covered with wire thats been cut or broken so wasn’t taking my chances there. This place is huge! There is no sewer at sites but water and electric up to 50amp


Guide to Mountain City

Camping sites near Mountain City, Georgia offer primitive to full-service options within the Chattahoochee National Forest and nearby state parks. Located near the Georgia-North Carolina-South Carolina borders, camping areas range from 1,600 to 3,600 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations between valley and mountain sites. Many forest service campgrounds have limited facilities but offer greater privacy, while developed sites provide more amenities with easier access.

What to Do

Waterfall hiking: 1-2 miles round trip. At Black Rock Mountain State Park, multiple hiking trails provide access to seasonal waterfalls. "Lots of hiking trails, 11 miles or so. Great spot for tent camping down below from the RV spots which is nice," notes Natalie B.

Trout fishing: Access available year-round. The streams running through Standing Indian Campground provide excellent fishing opportunities. "A beautiful trout stream runs through the park, close to all the campsites," explains John K. The campground is directly across from an Appalachian Trail entrance, giving hikers easy access to longer routes.

Swimming in mountain lakes: Best June-August. Several campgrounds feature lake access with designated swimming areas. At Moccasin Creek State Park, visitors appreciate the combination of water activities and hiking. "Right on Lake Burton. Cool breezes and cool nights. Great options for day trips to either visit small towns or hike trails," shares Susan H.

What Campers Like

Privacy levels between sites: At Sarah's Creek Campground, campsites offer greater seclusion. "Most sites are VERY secluded. We could see our neighbors in the distance, but not very well. Some of the sites are HUGE," reports Rebekah C. The campground requires basic off-road driving skills to reach some sites.

Bathroom facilities: Variable by location. Campground bathrooms range from pit toilets to modern facilities. At Oconee State Park, "Bathrooms were always clean and seem to have been recently redone," according to Jay B. Many campers mention bathroom quality as a deciding factor when choosing sites.

Temperature variations: Higher elevation campgrounds like Black Rock Mountain offer relief from summer heat. "It's narrow and very slippery in spots, with more elevation changes than you expect," describes Mark D. about the Tennessee Rock Trail, highlighting the microclimates created by the region's topography.

What You Should Know

Road conditions and access limitations: Many campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Tallulah Gorge State Park, the terrain creates challenges for some campers. "Campground is very hilly. It was great to be able to access trails from the campground," notes Rachel G. Sites are often uneven, requiring leveling blocks for RVs.

Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires food storage precautions throughout the region. "There are bear proof food containers that you can utilize," reports Thomas R. about Sarah's Creek Campground. Many camping areas provide bear boxes or recommend hanging food supplies.

Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. "There is absolutely ZERO Verizon service," warns Twan M. about Sarah's Creek Campground. Higher elevations typically provide better signal, though many campgrounds are in valleys with limited or no service.

Tips for Camping with Families

Creek play areas: Great for summer months. River Falls at the Gorge offers water activities for children. "The river is perfect for tubing. It is just a 30 min drive to Helen Ga which is a very popular area for tourism," recommends Matt and Tabatha C. Several campgrounds feature shallow creeks where children can safely wade.

Kid-specific fishing areas: Some locations designate special fishing zones for younger anglers. "They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older. This park is a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," Joshua G. explains about Moccasin Creek State Park.

Playground availability: Many state parks include playground facilities. "They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp," shares Diane G. about her family experience at Unicoi State Park.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven sites. "Keep in mind this is the highest peak in Georgia so everything is on an incline," cautions a camper at Black Rock Mountain. RVers should bring additional leveling equipment for mountain sites.

Pull-through availability: Limited at most forest service campgrounds. "Any trailer longer than 25 feet is tight getting to back sites," advises Ted D. about Black Rock Mountain State Park. Larger rigs should research specific site dimensions before booking.

Hookup availability: Varies widely between campgrounds. "Lots are nice and spacious, hook ups worked great," reports Ben P. about Willow Valley RV Resort. Sites with full hookups tend to be limited to private RV parks and some state park campgrounds, while forest service sites typically offer no hookups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are available near Mountain City camping areas?

Mountain City's surrounding area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. At Jackrabbit Mountain on Lake Chatuge, you can enjoy hiking, water sports, and mountain biking right from your campsite, with trails accessible directly from the camping area. Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive hiking trails with spectacular mountain views. The region also features numerous waterfalls, fishing opportunities in mountain streams, and paddleboarding on nearby lakes. The Appalachian Trail passes close to Mountain City, providing day-hiking options. Seasonal activities include fall foliage viewing, spring wildflower walks, and wildlife observation year-round.

Where can I find camping in Mountain City, Tennessee?

Mountain City offers several excellent camping options in the surrounding area. Davidson River Campground provides gravel campsites with paved entrances, electric hookups, and convenient access to Pisgah National Forest. The sites are close to bathhouses with warm showers. For a more rustic experience, Raven Cliff Falls offers free camping with two distinct areas - the camp side and trail side. This location has water and bathroom facilities but can get crowded on weekends. Both locations provide a perfect base for exploring the Mountain City region while enjoying the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

When is the best season for camping in Mountain City?

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the most pleasant camping conditions in Mountain City. Chau Ram County Park is particularly enjoyable during these months, with its waterfall, river rapids, and hiking trails accessible in comfortable temperatures. Summer brings warmer days perfect for water activities, though higher elevations remain cooler. Tugaloo State Park Campground is ideal in late summer and early fall when the weather is moderate and water activities are still enjoyable. Fall brings spectacular foliage from late September through October, while winter camping is possible but requires preparation for cold temperatures and potential snow, especially at higher elevations. Spring offers wildflowers and fewer crowds.