Camping options near Tiger, Georgia offer unique recreation and lodging experiences within the mountainous terrain of northeastern Georgia. Located at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,640 feet, the region's campgrounds benefit from cooler temperatures, even in summer months when temperatures can be 10-15 degrees lower than surrounding lowland areas. The higher elevation campgrounds often provide access to trout-filled streams and hiking trails connecting to the Appalachian Trail system.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Tallulah Gorge State Park offers access to the gorge floor with proper permits. "We hiked down to the gorge and all of the rim trails, but 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," shared Jessica A. at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
Tubing river currents: River Falls at the Gorge campground provides on-site tubing opportunities. "Everyday the river changes because of the dam upstream. Sometimes it's almost a trickle and you can venture out on the huge rocks and other times it's almost a whitewater adventure although still safe for tubing," according to Ron K. at River Falls at the Gorge.
Fishing for trout: The Tallulah River is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. "The other great thing about this spot is the trout fishing. It is regularly stocked with rainbows and makes for some beautiful Landscape while fishing," explains Sean M. who camps at Tallulah River Campground. Moccasin Creek offers a special fishing area for specific groups: "They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older," notes Joshua G.
What campers like
Privacy of primitive sites: Black Rock Mountain State Park offers walk-in tent camping with increased seclusion. "We stayed in one of the tent-only, walk-in sites. Once we got to our site, it was awesome. The pad was in great shape, flat, clean and plenty large enough for our 9-person tent and all our gear. Other campsites could barely be seen through the woods so it felt very private and secluded," reports Mark D. at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Oconee State Park maintains well-kept facilities. "Bathrooms were always clean and seem to have been recently redone. Sites were small but not overly so," notes Jay B. who visited the park, adding that "park staff came around twice a day to pick up trash, very nice."
Riverfront campsites: Many campers value sites adjacent to flowing water. "We chose site A10 right by the Tallulah River. Loved the river right behind us," explains Todd L. from River Falls at the Gorge. At Tallulah River Campground, campers appreciate "that we were able to get one next to the river. It was very quiet, even during the day."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful driving on narrow mountain roads. "The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn," warns John K. about Standing Indian Campground. At River Falls at the Gorge, a camper noted "Only complaint was the lack of water pressure at our site. I ended up using the water pump to supplement for the shower."
Temperature variations: Higher elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature swings. "We could hear the stream from our site at night. Exactly what we were looking for... The valley is cool at night. The river warmer than you'd expect," observes Ron K. about River Falls at the Gorge.
Reservation vs. first-come sites: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come basis only. "Campground is first come first serve. Potable water available," states Cindy K. about Tallulah River Campground. She adds, "Great spot for those looking to get off the grid. Camped right along the river."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing access: Moccasin Creek State Park offers specially designated fishing areas. "This campground is very kid friendly. They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older. This park is a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," explains Joshua G. at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground.
Recreation amenities: Some campgrounds provide substantial on-site activities. At Willow Valley RV Resort, "There are many activities to keep family members occupied, including a playground, basketball, corn hole, soccer nets, community fire pit (you can rent a private firepit), and in-season, a pool," according to Lee D.
Trail difficulty considerations: Be careful about trail selections with younger children. "The Tennessee Rock trail seems to be the most popular, but let me warn you -- it was NOT as easy as we expected. My youngest kid and my wife turned around and went back," cautions Mark D. about Black Rock Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area, "Pavement in the campground is a bit worn, but shouldn't hinder getting around with any kind of vehicle. The road to the campground from Lakemont/441, Lake Rabun Road, is very narrow and has some tight curves so be aware of this if you have a camper or anything larger than a Sprinter van," advises Todd C.
Site selection for larger rigs: At River Falls at the Gorge, "Sites are a little tight on the river. Probably 20' wide but still beautiful because of the footage on the river," notes Ron K. Another camper recommends: "Large sites. VERY reasonable rates... So good, I almost didn't want to tell everyone with this review."
WiFi connectivity: Unlike many remote campgrounds, Willow Valley RV Resort offers strong connectivity. "Best internet anywhere around," according to Nicole-Marie B., who stayed there. Another camper confirmed: "Full hookups, great cell phones signal, Verizon and AT&T works really good, clean and modern laundry."
