The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest region near Resaca, Georgia sits at elevations between 700-1,000 feet, creating mild camping conditions even during summer months. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and spring-fed creeks that maintain cold temperatures year-round. Camping options range from established campgrounds with basic amenities to fully dispersed sites on forest service land.
What to Do
Fishing in spring-fed waters: At Pocket Campground, the creek offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Most of the campsites within walking distance of the creek we can catch the occasional trout! There's a trail that runs the length of the creek so I can try your hand at different spots," notes Charlie S.
Explore hiking trails: The area offers trails for all skill levels. "Lots of trails, one in the campground. Wading area for kids. Bathrooms always clean and host always very nice. We try to go during the week, less people," shares Amanda M. about her experiences at Pocket Campground.
Mountain biking: For those seeking more adventure, the area has excellent biking trails. "We were looking for somewhere near the Pocket to camp out for a night after a nice mountain bike ride on the Pinhotti Trail. The main campground in the area is closed in the winter. We pulled off the road onto Gentry Gap and found the perfect spot," reports Courtney C.
What Campers Like
Natural springs: The pristine spring water at Hidden Creek Campground offers a unique camping experience. "We went out and found this place and setup our campsite very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here and there are a few big potholes in the road to watch out for," notes Patrick R.
Quiet camping experience: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Resaca prioritize peace and quiet. "Fantastic, recently renovated area for camping. Right next to a spring-fed creek, with a camp host and ranger keeping people in check and safe. Toilets only and no hookups. No generators at night (yeay!) Great to test dry camping for newbies," writes G F. about Pocket Campground.
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value. "Has a bathroom, picnic tables, fire ring and grill. No water this time of year but the lake can be accessed at the nearby boat ramp. Beautiful lake and forest. Have the place to myself for the most part at this time of year," shares Guy W. about Woodring Campground, mentioning it costs just $10/night.
What You Should Know
Road conditions: Some pet-friendly camping near Resaca requires navigating rough roads. "Overall we enjoyed this stay! 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...LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES," warns Robyn W. about Hidden Creek Campground.
Seasonal closures: Plan accordingly for campground availability. "1/24/21: We were looking for somewhere near the Pocket to camp out for a night after a nice mountain bike ride on the Pinhotti Trail. The main campground in the area is closed in the winter," notes Courtney C.
Cell service limitations: Prepare for limited connectivity. "This lake has heavy boat traffic, lots of fisherman and jet skies. During the week, it's quite. A really nice place to visit. I SUP along the shoreline and in coves, but lots of chop on the weekends," shares Rogue Y. about Woodring Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Lake activities for kids: Salacoa Creek Park offers excellent family-friendly amenities. "Great little campground on a good size lake with some decent fishing. There's a playground in the campground and a beach with another playground in the near by day use area," notes Glenn M.
Safety considerations: Families appreciate the secure environment. "Very safe campground. I grew up camping here with my dad. When I had my oldest son, I would take him camping here, just me and him. I've camped at this campground several times as a single mom and never had problems," shares Sarah H. about Salacoa Creek Park.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences for children. "For our camping group, this place was amazing. We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though. The views here? Amazing. Camping? Amazing! The trails are great, and everything feels spread out," says Shelly C. about Fort Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At 411 River Rest Campground, RVers appreciate the attention to detail. "This is a great place to camp, we enjoy staying here they also have some tent sites, wifi is a bit spotty which is to be expected since everyone is trying to use it so either use your hotspot or a mobile internet provider and you will be fine," advises Chris.
Level site considerations: RVers should assess site conditions before setting up. "The sites are very level and we didn't have to level the axles at all. Sites are roomy and well laid out. The owners and staff go above and beyond to make their guests feel welcome and also to be helpful to your needs," notes Robert L. about 411 River Rest Campground.
Hookup availability: Understand service limitations at dog-friendly campgrounds near Resaca. "Great boondocking area. Fantastic, recently renovated area for camping. Right next to a spring-fed creek, with a camp host and ranger keeping people in check and safe. Toilets only and no hookups. No generators at night (yeay!) Great to test dry camping for newbies," shares G F.
