Best Dispersed Camping near Scottdale, GA
Dispersed camping can be found in several primitive areas surrounding Scottdale, Georgia, primarily at Ocmulgee River Camp, Tyler Hunt Camp, and Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area. These locations offer basic backcountry camping with minimal infrastructure. Campers should note that Joe Kurz WMA requires a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license for overnight stays, reflecting its primary purpose for hunting and fishing activities. The other sites provide more accessible primitive camping options without specific permit requirements, though standard public land regulations apply.
Access roads to these camping areas range from maintained gravel to somewhat rough dirt tracks. Ocmulgee River Camp features a bumpy but manageable gravel road about a mile off the main thoroughfare. Tyler Hunt Camp and Joe Kurz WMA have drive-in access suitable for most vehicles, though high clearance may be beneficial during wet weather. None of these sites provide amenities such as drinking water, electricity, or sanitary facilities. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with fires permitted at Ocmulgee and Joe Kurz but prohibited at Concord Hunt Camp. Campers must pack out all trash and bring all necessary supplies.
These dispersed camping areas provide varying experiences of seclusion and natural surroundings. Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area features picnic tables and accommodates both tent and RV camping in a setting where wildlife observation is common. "No cell coverage, has fire pit, mostly tent and car campers," notes one visitor to Joe Kurz WMA. Ocmulgee River Camp offers spacious, flat camping areas with occasional fire pits. According to a camper, it has "open spaces and very quiet this time of the year (January), train horn in the distance and gunshots in the distance as well from hunters." Tyler Hunt Camp provides a more secluded experience during daylight hours but some visitors report increased vehicle traffic after dark. Most sites experience some hunting activity in season, with gunshots audible from a distance.
