Dispersed tent campsites near Murrayville, Georgia provide accessible outdoor experiences in the Chattahoochee National Forest without requiring extensive hiking. Located at elevations between 1,800-3,000 feet, this area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Most primitive sites require crossing multiple water features along Forest Service roads, with seasonal rainfall affecting accessibility.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Raven Cliff Falls offers a 5-mile round trip hike ending at an impressive waterfall with extensive rock formations for exploration. One visitor noted, "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."
Mountain views: Blood Mountain provides panoramic vistas after a moderate climb. A hiker shared, "We didn't stay in the shelter and instead set up our tent near an overlook nearby. Perfect place for sunrise and sunset. It was a little buggy until the wind picked up."
Fishing opportunities: Smithgall Woods offers access to Dukes Creek, a prime trout fishing destination. According to one reviewer, "This campground is unique because it is more of a preserve with most of its land accessible to fly fisherman. The trails are ok but this seems to be more of a protected land than a destination for camping."
Motorcycle tourism: The region attracts motorcycle enthusiasts seeking scenic routes. A visitor at Two Wheels of Suchess observed, "TWO has a great location at the convergence of many great roads. Dedicated to motorcyclists, TWO has tent sites, trees to hammock and small cabins for rent."
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many tent sites along waterways offer natural white noise and cooling effects. A camper at Raven Cliff Falls 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."
Forest privacy: Dispersed sites often feature natural vegetation barriers between camping areas. One visitor mentioned, "This is my go to campsite. River near most of the campsites and a waterfall to boot. Great place to unplug and reset your body."
Mountain-top experiences: High elevation camping provides cooler temperatures and distinctive views. A backpacker at Blood Mountain Shelter observed, "It definitely cooled down at night even in the summer due to the wind so make sure you set up in a spot with a windbreak or bring layers!"
Trail access: Direct connections to trail systems create opportunities for multi-day adventures. A hiker noted, "Large flat rocks nestle amongst the vegetation on top of Blood Mountain. This is one of the highest climbs in this southern portion of the Appalachian Trail."
What you should know
Bear presence: Bear encounters are common in this region, requiring proper precautions. A camper warned, "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."
Water sources: Many primitive sites lack reliable drinking water. One camper at Woody Gap Campground mentioned, "Great location for camping, tent or hammock. After a long day hike, it's a great spot for the night. Water near by."
Site availability: Walk-in sites fill quickly on weekends, especially during peak seasons. A camper reported, "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 20 yards."
Access challenges: Forest service roads require appropriate vehicles in many cases. According to a local, "If you're pulling a camper, I'd suggest you check out FS251 before you drive into the site, its roughly TWO miles. I'd not bring in a big 5th wheel, etc... and PLEASE don't drive out into the grassy areas, you will get stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Several locations offer shorter hikes suitable for children. A family at Springer Mountain Shelter shared, "The shelter is only 1 mile away from the nearest parking lot, or you can start at Amicalola and hike the 8 miles for the Approach Trail."
Educational experiences: Several campgrounds provide interpretive opportunities. A reviewer noted, "There is a visitor center with educational programs, geocaching, picnicking. Once again this is very close to wonderful Bavarian town called Helen Georgia."
Field camping: Open areas allow for group activities and easy supervision. At Hickory Flatts Cemetery, a caretaker explained, "There are no camp sites, its an open area about the size of a football field. There are bathrooms, with four toilets... no running water or electricity."
Weather preparations: Mountain elevations can bring unexpected temperature drops. A camper advised, "It definitely cooled down at night even in the summer due to the wind so make sure you set up in a spot with a windbreak or bring layers!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most dispersed camping areas have significant restrictions for larger vehicles. A visitor noted, "We stayed in the parking lot in our small rig. (Under 26 ft) we had our super quiet generator running and had no issues."
Dump stations: RV services are limited in the immediate area. One reviewer mentioned, "You can pay as you go or wait for the total as you leave. You are far enough in the sticks but also close to whatever you need from down the road."
Parking alternatives: Some RVers find creative solutions when dedicated sites aren't available. A visitor shared, "The paved parking lot in front of the main lodge is for motorcycles only, however there is a gravel parking lot for 4 wheel vehicles."
Water availability: Plan for self-contained operation in most locations. A camper recommended, "There is a water source, just look for trail leading out to left side, about halfway to the pavilion. If you walk upstream, there's a pipe where Spring comes out of ground."
