Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground sits at an elevation of 1,592 feet in Georgia's northeastern mountain region. The area features a steep-walled canyon measuring 1,000 feet deep and nearly two miles long where streams flow over rocky terrain. Water release schedules from the dam affect trail access with permits limited to 100 visitors daily for safety reasons.
What to do
Paddle on Lake Chatuge: At Jackrabbit Mountain, campsites provide direct water access. "Our campsite was 13A which is right on the water. Gravel tent site is very large. This particular site has direct water access for swimming and fishing," notes Katrin S.
Hike challenging trails: For those wanting strenuous hiking beyond the gorge, Raven Cliff Falls offers multiple waterfalls within a manageable distance. "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," shares Wayne H.
Mountain bike dedicated trails: The Jackrabbit trail system provides varying difficulty levels. "The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are absolutely amazing for all skill levels," writes Katrin S. A 1.5-mile connector trail from the campground eliminates road riding, allowing direct access to the larger trail network.
What campers like
Riverside camping: River Campground offers tent sites directly beside flowing water. "We had a spot right on the river. Full hookups. Clean bathrooms and showers. Incredible river to fish and swim in," says Sarah R. The campground provides river access and covered tent shelters for rainy conditions.
Dark skies for stargazing: Rural locations mean minimal light pollution. "At night it's just as beautiful because of the rural location, there is little to no light pollution and the stars are breathtaking," observes Heidi G. about camping at Jackrabbit Mountain.
Recreation facilities: Bald Mountain Camping Resort offers multiple activities within the campground. "Campground has plenty to do to keep you busy, some activities include fishing in the private lake, putt-putt, 2 playgrounds, shuffleboard, horseshoes, volleyball baseball field and wading in the creek," notes Steve B.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent. "If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," warns Ashley S. about Oconee State Park. Many campgrounds have no WiFi, so prepare for digital disconnection.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds lack showers. At Raven Cliff Falls, "There is water and bathroom access" but no shower facilities, according to Everette G. Bathhouses at state parks generally remain cleaner than more remote facilities.
Weather considerations: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in summer months. Campgrounds at higher elevations like Vogel State Park sit at 2,500 feet above sea level and maintain cooler temperatures even during summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Vogel State Park provides multiple play areas. "Two separate children's playgrounds exist, not too far from one another. One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area," shares Dave V.
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess physical abilities before attempting steep gorge trails. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," explains Jamie M. about Tallulah Gorge trails.
Swimming locations: Most campgrounds with water access have designated swimming areas. At Oconee State Park, there's "a small lake, which had a short trail going around it. We saw people fishing and I believe you can rent canoes as well in the park," according to Jessica S.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven sites. At Oconee State Park, "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV," advises Constance O.
Limited hookups: Research utilities before booking glamping close to Rabun Gap, Georgia. At Jackrabbit Mountain, "RVers will have to rough it with no hookups, but there is access to a dump station," notes Ellen K. Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others provide partial or none.
Reservation timing: Premium RV sites with views book months in advance during peak season. For luxury glamping near Rabun Gap, secure reservations early, especially for holiday weekends when special events occur.
