Camping near Sky Valley, Georgia offers options across elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,500 feet in the southern Appalachians. The terrain features steep mountain roads with limited cell service in valley bottoms, particularly at primitive sites. Temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands, making summer months ideal for those seeking relief from heat.
What to do
Trout fishing access points: Sarah's Creek Campground offers direct stream access for anglers. "The creek is shallow for the most part but there is a trail marked by a bright green circle spraypainted onto a pine tree shortly before the first few sites where there are some small falls and a nice little swimming/bathing hole. Trout fisherman's delight," notes a visitor at Sarah's Creek Campground.
Waterfall hikes: Multiple trails connect to campsites with varying difficulty levels. "Lots of hiking trails, 11 miles or so. Great spot for tent camping down below from the RV spots which is nice. Showers bathrooms and water easy access from the tent primitive camping," shares a visitor at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Water recreation: The Tallulah River provides tubing opportunities directly from several campgrounds. "The river is perfect for tubing. It is just a 30 min drive to Helen Ga which is a very popular area for tourism. There is nearby Lake Rabun which also has a recreation area for swimming," explains a camper.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Riverside sites rank consistently high in reviews. "Our site was right by the Tallulah River. Loved the river right behind us," writes a camper about their experience at River Falls at the Gorge.
Mountain temperature relief: The elevation provides natural air conditioning in summer. "The temperature here in the hot summer is outstanding... it's 15-20 degrees cooler than elsewhere in the state due to high elevation," reports a visitor at Van Hook Glade.
Private walk-in sites: Some campsites near Sky Valley offer greater seclusion for tent campers. "Very beautiful primitive sites. Bear boxes at each campsite. This site was a bit far from parking, so I'd recommend packing your things in a backpack. Beautiful view of Clayton at night. We were the only ones there and it was very peaceful," notes a camper.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Signal availability varies dramatically across the region. "No cell service in campground but can get signal at higher spots on drive in," reports a visitor to Sarah's Creek Campground.
High elevation challenges: The area's mountainous terrain impacts site access. "The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location," advises a camper at Standing Indian Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in the region. "We saw blackbear no venomous snakes but did come across a few black racers. As for firewood you can scrounge around there for branches and such but better to buy the wood out on the main stretch in Clayton," advises a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes access: Kids enjoy natural water features. "A nice campground with a trail and beach picnic area. 2 bathhouses were good. Laundry facilities available. There was little cell reception and no tv reception here," explains a camper at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change quickly. "The forecast was showing 30's as low and we were a little worried. We noticed that the temps seemed to be dropping along our walk and there was actually a little snow/sleet falling on us.... uh oh!" shares one family's experience.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with specific amenities for children. "This place has multiple types of sites, full hook up (including sewer), partial hook up, as well as cabins and permanent RVs to rent. In the morning, a beautiful fog sits over the trees and gives a mystic appearance. We had a lot of fun. A lot of people who go hear have kids and they run free. My son made so many friends."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks to most sites. "The only reason I don't give them 5 stars is almost every lot is tight and they are not level," notes an RV camper.
Hookup positioning: Check utility placement before finalizing reservations. "Only complaint was the sewer hook up went uphill to drain. It drained still but very slowly. Luckily there was some logs by it to help elevate the hose," advises an RVer at Devils Fork State Park Campground.
Road access limitations: Some roads in the region aren't suitable for larger rigs. "Sites are a little close together but not the worst I've ever seen. Staff is very helpful and friendly. Tubing the river is great fun and easy to do without leaving the campground," shares a camper about their experience with a camper.
