Tallulah Falls sits at 1,600 feet elevation in northeast Georgia where the Tallulah River cuts through Tallulah Gorge, creating a 1,000-foot deep canyon with steep rocky walls. The area features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons and average summer temperatures around 85°F, while winters can drop below freezing. Camping options span from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive sites along hiking trails, including yurt accommodations and cabin rentals.
What to do
Hiking the stairs: Visitors to Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground can access numerous trails directly from the camping areas. "It is 1099 stairs to the bottom of canyon! Campground was nice. Sites are open and unlevel but most were a good size," notes Rachel G. The trek requires stamina but rewards with exceptional views.
Waterfall exploration: Several nearby waterfalls offer easier hiking alternatives to the gorge. Raven Cliff Falls provides access to multiple cascades. "Raven Cliff Falls trail is a 2.5 miles hike that ends at a breathtaking waterfall, but the trail doesn't quite end there. Once you arrive at the falls there's plenty of room to roam the dozens of rock structures," writes Wayne H.
Lake activities: Many campers enjoy water recreation on Lake Hartwell. A visitor to Tugaloo State Park Campground shared: "Able to kayak right from campsite. Campground has over 100 sites. None of the lake front were bad, some were low level, some had fenced railing with a little drop."
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural forest setting. At Unicoi State Park & Lodge, the wooded environment creates a comfortable microclimate. "The sites are beautiful and there is tons to do nearby," notes Robyn L., highlighting the natural shade that keeps temperatures manageable even in summer.
Waterside camping: Riverside and lakeside sites rank among the most popular. "We had a spot right on the river. Full hookups. Clean bathrooms and showers. Incredible river to fish and swim in," reports Sarah R. about her stay at River Campground, LLC near Tallulah Gorge.
Convenient trail access: Many campgrounds feature direct trail connections. "It was great to be able to explore the gorge directly from the campsite and the views were incredible," mentions Kristin M. about Terrora Park Campground, appreciating the ability to hike without driving to trailheads.
What you should know
Limited permits: Access to certain areas requires planning ahead. "We were disappointed to not be able to do the Sliding Rock Trail. We called ahead and the gorge floor/Sliding Rock Trail were supposed to be closed for water release," explains Jessica A. from Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
Site selection matters: Campsite quality varies significantly within the same campground. "Choose spot 4 which was actually pretty private, especially since we lucked out and didn't have neighbors the first night. As others have said, spot 12 is definitely the best," advises Kristin M. about Terrora Park.
Limited or no cell service: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Oconee State Park Campground, "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," warns Ashley S.
Tips for camping with families
Creek-side entertainment: Children often enjoy playing in the small creeks and streams. "The kids played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp," shares Diane G. about Unicoi State Park.
Activity options: Vogel State Park Campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "A miniature golf course, and a creek that runs through the campground that seemed the biggest attraction for a great many of the kids," notes Timothy B., mentioning the park's appeal to families with children of various ages.
Cabin alternatives to tent camping: For families new to outdoor recreation, cabin options provide an easier entry point. "The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place," explains Jessica S., detailing the amenities at Oconee State Park that make family camping more comfortable.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the area require careful positioning. "Some of the roads leading to the site are rough because of roots pushing through the paving," notes Chanda P. about Tugaloo State Park, pointing out a common issue in the region's wooded campgrounds.
Tight navigation: The forested setting means some campgrounds have challenging access. "It was very tight navigating through the park. I have a 43ft 5th Wheel and it was very tight," warns a reviewer about Tugaloo State Park, emphasizing the importance of checking site dimensions before booking.
Yurt camping alternatives: For those seeking yurt camping near Tallulah Falls, Georgia, options exist beyond traditional RV sites. Tugaloo State Park offers yurts as mentioned by several campers, providing a comfortable glamping experience without requiring an RV or tent setup.
