Dispersed camping near Summerville, Georgia ranges from primitive sites on Wildlife Management Areas to forestland camping on unimproved grounds. The terrain consists primarily of wooded areas in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations between 700-1,800 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer humidity creates challenging camping conditions during peak season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Blue Hole Dispersed in Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA connects to several trails including paths to Ellison Cave. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping. We were never bothered and it's right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail," reports Ava R.
Fishing opportunities: Ponds at several sites offer bass fishing for those bringing gear. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, one camper shared: "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb."
Stargazing: Low light pollution makes Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area ideal 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," notes Tyler J.
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Most dispersed camping areas near Summerville offer quiet camping away from crowds. Tennessee Wall Camp provides a more secluded experience with natural surroundings. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing," says Suzie K.
Free camping options: Many sites like Hidden Creek Campground offer no-cost camping for budget-conscious travelers. "A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle," notes heidi H.
Fire rings: Several primitive sites include established fire rings for campfires. At Tennessee Wall Camp, one camper mentioned, "Great sites with fire pits," and another added that there's "Plenty of firewood to collect on site."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles or careful driving. "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," explains Patrick R. about Hidden Creek Campground.
Seasonal closures: Some areas restrict access during winter months. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, a visitor noted: "This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March."
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife frequent camping areas. At Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area, one camper warns: "There are bears in the area and they love food. A fed bear is a dead bear-please don't leave any food out and scare them away if they come around."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection guidance: Choose areas with level ground for family tent setups. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area offers a flat grassy field suitable for multiple tents. "The camping field is at the base of Bald Mountain, altitude 4005'. Nearby Tearbritches Trail will take you to the summit of Bald Mountain and then down to the Conasauga River. There are some fire pits in the open field," describes Roy B.
Bathroom considerations: Most dispersed areas lack facilities, so prepare accordingly. One camper at SongBird Trail Camp (Cohutta WMA) explains that despite primitive conditions, "This area will speak for itself once you arrive. It's very peaceful and calming, beautiful hikes, pretty nature, and great memories!"
Cell service limitations: Plan activities that don't require internet access. A camper at Ball Field Dispersed notes: "The cell connection is intermittent and usually only one bar (or no cell)."
Tips from RVers
Generator use: Bring power sources where allowed. At Blue Hole Dispersed, one camper shares: "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator."
Size restrictions: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger rigs. "Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping," notes a review about Blue Hole Dispersed.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires leveling equipment for comfortable stays. At Tennessee Wall Camp, a camper warns: "The field is fairly sloped, so you want to have some shoring if you are in a trailer, roof top tent, or van."
