Dispersed camping options near Resaca, Georgia stretch across several wildlife management areas and national forests. Elevation ranges from 700 feet in valley areas to over 4,000 feet at mountain peaks like Bald Mountain. Winter temperatures typically drop to the mid-30s with occasional snow at higher elevations, while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures in the 80s and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking to water features: The Emery Creek Trail at Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area provides access to several backcountry water features. "This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. The Emery Creek Trail is at the back of the camping area," notes one visitor.
Cave exploration: Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA offers both swimming and cave adventures at Blue Hole Dispersed. "It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," explains one camper. The area includes Ellison Cave, one of the deepest in the continental US.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies offer fishing near free camping areas. At Lost Creek Campground, visitors report good catch rates: "This is a great spot in the river. Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilet and all you hear is the river at night." Bass fishing is popular at several sites, with one camper at Prentice Cooper mentioning, "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area receives high marks for night sky viewing. "This is one of my favorite types of spots: remote, little light pollution, and deep in the mountains. I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way," shares one enthusiast.
Swimming holes: The clear water at Conasauga River Camp provides natural swimming opportunities. "Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends," reports one visitor.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers value the quiet found at free camping sites near Resaca. SongBird Trail Camp in Cohutta WMA earns praise for its tranquility: "This area will speak for itself once you arrive. It's very peaceful and calming, beautiful hikes, pretty nature, and great memories!"
What you should know
Wildlife management rules: Several camping areas operate under wildlife management area regulations. At Blue Hole Dispersed, "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve."
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed camping sites close during winter months. At Prentice Cooper State Forest, "99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night."
Weekend crowds: Free camping near Resaca gets busy during weekends, especially at water-adjacent sites. At Conasauga River Camp, one visitor notes it's "very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends." Another camper at Lost Creek observed, "Nice but super crowded on the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Jack's River Falls Trail provides challenging but accessible backpacking for families with older children. "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls."
Group camping options: Some areas specifically accommodate larger family groups. At Jack's River Falls, "Great group campsite not far from Jack's River Falls. We had a group of 10 that spread out over this little 'island' very easily. There were two campfire areas already in place and most sites very level and well covered by trees."
Wildlife watching opportunities: The Cohutta Wilderness offers extensive wildlife viewing possibilities. Visitors report seeing butterflies, birds, and other native species. Plan morning and evening observation times when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limitations: Most free camping near Resaca presents challenges for larger RVs. At Hidden Creek Campground, one RVer warns, "There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Parking strategies: Some dispersed areas offer limited space for RVs. Blue Hole Dispersed "have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole." Most campsites accommodate only tent camping or smaller camper vans.
Road condition monitoring: Forest service roads can deteriorate quickly after rain. At Hidden Creek Campground, "GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is. The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks. We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES."
