Rabun Gap sits at 2,211 feet elevation in Georgia's northeast corner, where temperatures can drop 10-15°F cooler than surrounding lowlands even in summer months. The area's camping options spread across both the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and nearby state parks, offering sites that range from basic tent platforms to full-hookup RV resorts. Rainfall averages 60+ inches annually, creating the lush forests and numerous waterways that define the region's camping experience.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: At Tallulah River Campground, the river is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. "The other great thing about this spot is the trout fishing. It is regularly stocked with rainbows and makes for some beautiful Landscape while fishing," notes Sean M.
Swimming holes exploration: Some campgrounds feature natural swimming areas where you can cool off. At Sarah's Creek Campground, "There is a trail marked by a bright green circle spraypainted onto a pine tree shortly before the first few sites where there are some small falls and a nice little swimming/bathing hole," explains Twan M.
Tennessee Rock Trail: Located at Black Rock Mountain State Park, this trail offers moderate hiking with elevation changes. "The Tennessee Rock trail seems to be the most popular, but let me warn you -- it was NOT as easy as we expected. My youngest kid and my wife turned around and went back. I and my older kids, along with the dog, completed the hike, but it was challenging," shares Mark D.
What campers like
Sound of running water: Many campsites in the area are positioned alongside creeks or rivers. At Tallulah River Campground, "Pretty much all campsites are within a stone's throw of the river and the others are just a short distance away, so you can still hear the river," according to Brian S.
Heated pool access: For campers wanting more comfort, some private parks offer upgraded amenities. Logan S. appreciates Willow Valley RV Resort: "Man a hidden gem. Not far for us and love the amenities of the resort. Full hookups, plenty to do and entertain the family. The amenities are wonderful, one being that the pool is heated!"
Higher elevation cooling: The mountain location means cooler temperatures, especially at Black Rock Mountain State Park. Timothy H. notes, "In the summer when there are leaves and green on all the trees, it's breathtaking with the views. Once the leaves fall off, it's a bit spooky (my interpretation) and can get windy without the leaves."
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. At Sarah's Creek Campground, "The road to get to some of these sites is ROUGH. Definitely not a road to drive for those who aren't skilled in off road driving," warns Rebekah C.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Many forest service campgrounds have limited facilities during off-peak times. In Oconee State Park, "Bathrooms were always clean and seem to have been recently redone. Sites were small but not overly so," reports Jay B.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. At Tallulah River Campground, jeremy G. points out, "If you're in the area, this is a good spot to get away from the world," while Hannah F. specifically mentions "no signal here" at Sarah's Creek.
Bear activity: Wildlife is active in the area. Thomas R. explains his Sarah's Creek experience: "We had a restroom near us that is like portable toilets with toilet paper provided. We saw blackbear no venomous snakes but did come across a few black racers."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing for kids: Some areas have special fishing zones for children. At Moccasin Creek State Park, "This campground is very kid friendly. 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.
Multiple activity options: Parks with diverse amenities keep children entertained. Jan P. says of Moccasin Creek: "The setting is peaceful. Hiking to Hemlock Falls is a must. Even in the hottest days of summertime, the trail is cool. The majority of the trail is right by the bubbling stream."
Basketball courts and playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At River Falls at the Gorge, "The campground itself has an indoor and outdoor pool. A clubhouse, a basketball court and playground equipment. The river is perfect for tubing," according to Matt and Tabatha C.
Wildlife education opportunities: Take advantage of trout hatcheries and wildlife viewing. According to Maddi P., Oconee State Park offers interesting educational experiences: "I also highly recommend stopping by the local fish hatchery, not only educational but fascinating as well!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require careful setup. At Tallulah Gorge State Park, Amy F. notes: "Only complaint was campsites were not wide enough. No matter how we did it our steps to the trailer came right in front of the giant cement table, which was nerve wrecking with little kids."
Power options: For RVers needing electricity, understand the available hookups. Elizabeth G. explains at Moccasin Creek State Park: "All sites have electric and water but we were tent camping and didn't use either. We stayed in site 5 which is close to bathrooms but not too close."
Internet availability: Some RV parks offer better connectivity than others. Logan S. points out about Willow Valley RV Resort, "They have super fast WiFi so didn't need our tailgater and just used the smart TVs."
Site spacing considerations: At River Falls at the Gorge, Andrea W. cautions: "The only reason I don't give them 5 stars is almost every lot is tight and they are not level."
