RV parks near Rabun Gap, Georgia offer camping options between 1,400 and 2,200 feet elevation in the southern Appalachians. Temperatures often run 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas, with summer highs typically in the mid-80s and nighttime lows in the 60s. Most campgrounds remain open year-round but reduce amenities during winter months when overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Gem mining opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to local gem mining operations within a 15-minute drive. Cullasaja River Campground connects visitors with nearby attractions. "Very close to attractions ie on waterfall Byway! And IN the Forest, Beautiful store with local Gems and Knitted items," notes Debbie B. about Cullasaja River Campground.
Water recreation access: Natural water features near campsites offer swimming and cooling options during summer months. "Right along the Cullasaja rive you have easy access to swimming and boating or you can drive a mile or two up the road and get to some amazing swimming holes with cliff jumping and natural water slides," explains Asher K. about this same location.
Day trips to surrounding towns: The central location allows for exploration of nearby mountain communities. "Great central location and wonderful for day trips," says Maria S. about her stay at River Vista RV Park. Many campers use Rabun Gap as a base for exploring Clayton, Sky Valley, Highlands, and Dillard, all within 20-30 minutes.
What campers like
Maintained grounds: Campers frequently comment on the quality of site maintenance. "Grounds are very well maintained, the office staff is very professional, and quiet hours are respected," writes Maria S. about her second visit to River Vista RV Park, explaining why she extended her stay to 30 days "to escape the heat of the Atlanta area."
Concrete pads at select sites: Some campgrounds offer upgraded sites with concrete surfaces for easier setup. At Pines RV Park, Sherry P. notes, "Lou will escort you to your site. He helps you get in your site, and let me tell you he knows what he's doing. He will get you perfectly situated." The concrete pads make leveling considerably easier.
Outdoor amenities: Many RV parks offer recreational facilities on-site. "There is an outdoor pool with hot tub, and an indoor heated pool for adults. There is a fireplace with wood and lighter so you can start your own fire by rocking chairs," Karen R. describes at River Vista RV Park, adding, "The roads are paved and easy to walk."
What you should know
Cash or check policies: Some smaller parks have limited payment options. "They do only accept cash or checks, but I'd absolutely recommend Pines for your travel break," explains Michelle I. about her experience at Pines RV Park and Cabins, where she booked "sight unseen" and was "absolutely thrilled" with what she found.
Road noise considerations: Properties near highways may experience traffic sounds. "The only issue is that if you are not there by 5pm, they will not park you so don't plan to arrive after work on a Friday and hope to spend the long weekend," notes Angie G. about The Great Outdoors RV Resort, adding that despite being off the main highway, "the road noise is really not an issue at all."
WiFi limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Very frustrated with the almost non-existent Wifi. Couldn't download much of anything or post anything or watch anything," reports Lisa M. about River Vista, suggesting campers "ask what areas are better for WiFi" when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds often include play areas for children. At Willow Valley RV Resort, Lee D. explains, "There are many activities to keep family members occupied, including a playground, basketball, corn hole, soccer nets, community fire pit (you can rent a private firepit), and in-season, a pool."
Recreation room availability: Indoor options for rainy days exist at some parks. "They have a rec room with ping pong, pool, and puzzles. Horse shoes are also available," mentions Sherry P. about Pines RV Park, providing options for entertainment beyond outdoor activities.
Seasonal considerations: Pool availability changes with seasons. Swain K. notes about The Great Outdoors RV Resort, "we stayed during spring break. no fire rings but they will bring a fir pit to your site. pool was still closed due to it still being chilly."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Some parks have specific check-in procedures requiring daylight arrival. "I'd been looking for a place to stop and kept striking out. I called Pines and they had a spot available so I took it sight unseen," shares Michelle I. about Pines RV Park and Cabins, where the owner "showed me the hookups and amenities of the camp."
Size limitations: Larger rigs may face challenges at certain campgrounds. At Sky High Ridge RV Campground, Jeffrey S. warns, "The roads are also very tight so anything bigger than a 30' may be tough (you actually cannot follow Google/Waze maps or you will get stuck, follow the host directions)."
Site selection strategies: Choosing the right site impacts comfort. "From the most part this is a very nice and clean park that's well maintained. However we paid for what they called a Super Premium Pull Thru and it was anything but. Very narrow, no room to put anything out," cautions Ed J. about his stay at River Vista RV Park, recommending careful site selection.
