Equestrian camping options around Summerville, Georgia extend beyond Pigeon Mountain and Sawmill Lake. The area sits within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest region at elevations ranging from 600-1,600 feet. Campers can access multiple trail networks including segments of the Pinhoti Trail within a 45-minute drive. Several campgrounds offer varying levels of horse accommodation without formal corrals.
What to do
Mountain biking and hiking trails: Near Cherokee Rock Village, trails offer diverse terrain for bikers and hikers. "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls. I love going to the drive-in movie theatre near by only $15 per vehicle to watch 2 movies!" shares Jess C.
Rock climbing: Tennessee Wall Camp provides access to climbing routes with convenient camping. "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," reports Suzie K.
Fishing and water activities: Lake areas within 30 miles offer fishing opportunities. At Coleman Lake Rec Area, visitors find "a nice little lake to play on and around. Very family and pet friendly." Steven W. adds that sites are "first come first serve so no reservations. Plenty of dispersed throughout the area though."
What campers like
Free primitive camping: Hickey Gap provides no-cost sites with basic amenities. Mike H. notes, "This was a beautiful little spot next to a creek. There are 5 sites in all... There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around."
Cave exploration: Multiple caves within driving distance offer spelunking opportunities. Lisa from Sawmill Lake Campsite mentions, "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking. The permit was 15 dollars to access Rock Town and the Caves."
Horse-friendly trails: While formal horse corrals are limited, many trails accommodate riders. At Davis Pond Campsite, campers access "multiple trails (for hiking, ATVs, and horses) closer to the entrance to the WMA," as William S. explains. The campground has "two picnic tables, and two lantern posts near the tables. However, it can easily accommodate many more campers."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to horse campgrounds near Summerville, Georgia often require vehicles with clearance. Tessa B. reports about Davis Pond: "Last 7 miles are on a windy gravel road. The last 1/2 mile gets a little dicey and needs a vehicle with some clearance."
Permit requirements: Many areas require permits for extended stays or specific activities. Sierra Y. noted about Sawmill Lake: "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian-friendly sites have minimal amenities. Coleman Lake camper Lisa W. mentions, "Beautiful, mostly shaded sites. My site, #7 had a path that led right down to the lake. Very nice bath house with shower and flushing toilets."
Cell service limitations: Reception is spotty or nonexistent at many sites. Evan S. warns about Coleman Lake: "The only negative is that there is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Mountain Cove Resort provides activities near Summerville. "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains," says Nathan T., though he warns: "There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi."
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings special activities to some campgrounds. Evan S. shares about Coleman Lake: "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive."
Safety precautions: Wildlife awareness is important with children. At Hickey Gap, Julia B. mentions, "My girls group and I wanted to do a quick weekend glamping trip. One long rocky road and an active bear warning later we were rocking it by the creek. Bring a bathing suit and some good hiking shoes."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access challenges: Lake Guntersville State Park Campground offers better roads for larger vehicles. Micheal S. advises about another location: "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper."
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities vary widely. Alanna R. shares about Lake Guntersville: "We went to the state park for the weekend. Stayed in the A area which we were told had sewer (it does not but it's very close to the dump station). Spots were average for a state park."
Weather preparedness: Trees and protective cover can be limited. Sierra Y. notes about Sawmill Lake: "Trees fall easily so if it's windy be careful where you park." Similarly, Jaime W. mentions that at Lake Guntersville, "Full hookup sites. Great views. Due to tornados in recent years, there are not many trees."
