Camping spots near Turnerville, Georgia offer access to the rich biodiversity of the Chattahoochee National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,500 feet. The region's moderate rainfall (around 55 inches annually) supports diverse plant life and creates numerous seasonal streams that run through many campsites. Weather patterns include afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 5 miles round trip to Raven Cliff Falls provides spectacular views through varied terrain. "The trail has some great views and different terrain from small creek crossings to some steep hills and valleys," notes a visitor to Raven Cliff Falls. The trail follows a creek and ends at a large waterfall with rock formations to explore.
Trout fishing: Dedicated kids' fishing area at Moccasin Creek State Park provides a controlled environment for young anglers. "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," according to a camper at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground.
Mountain biking and zip lining: Adventure activities available at Unicoi State Park. "A lot of activities to do! Mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, etc. Will definitely be returning in the future!" reports a camper at Unicoi State Park & Lodge. The park offers multi-use trails suitable for various skill levels.
River tubing: Gentle current perfect for cooling off during summer months. "The river is perfect for tubing," mentions a visitor to River Falls at the Gorge. "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."
What campers like
Secluded primitive sites: Privacy among trees at Black Rock Mountain State Park. "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," shares a visitor to Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Creekside camping: Natural white noise from flowing water enhances sleep quality. "Sleep to the sound of the river even in August. The valley is cool at night. The river warmer than you'd expect," notes a camper at Raven Cliff Falls. Many sites positioned directly alongside streams allow for immediate water access.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses across most established campgrounds. "The campground hosts are awesome. As soon as campers leave they swoop in and clean it like it's a hotel room," reports a visitor to Moccasin Creek State Park Campground. "Bathhouse was clean and the river made it all worthwhile."
Wildlife viewing: Natural animal habitat throughout the camping areas. "The wildlife here is also beautiful and very abundant," writes a camper at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground. Bear sightings occur regularly, with one camper noting, "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Limited winter availability at several campgrounds. Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground operates from "March 16 to December 17" while Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area runs from "May 4 to October 31." Plan accordingly if visiting during shoulder seasons.
Site selection: Elevation and slope can affect comfort. "Sites are a little tight on the river. Probably 20' wide but still beautiful because of the footage on the river," mentions a camper at River Falls at the Gorge. Another notes, "The sites closest to the highway are full hookup, gravel lots and there is a paved drive."
Road access: Narrow mountain roads create challenges for larger vehicles. "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 a visitor to Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area. Multiple campgrounds have similar access constraints.
Bear safety: Proper food storage is essential throughout the region. "Remember to Leave No Trace even if the campers before you did, and keep in mind that this is bear country. It's always a good idea to keep food out of tents, in a bear proof container, and hung up at least 14 feet off the ground," recommends a camper at Raven Cliff Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Dedicated swimming areas provide safer water access for children. "The swimming part of the lake has a small beach with sand and the lake is roped off for swimming," describes a visitor to Unicoi State Park & Lodge. "The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp."
Playground access: On-site recreation areas keep children entertained. "There's a huge pavilion and playground for kids to enjoy as well as a nice grassy area for dogs," notes a camper at Moccasin Creek State Park Campground. Multiple campgrounds feature similar amenities.
Kid-friendly trails: Shorter hiking options suitable for various ages. "Really enjoyed camping here with my family. Took our 19, 11, and 4 year old. Tested the trails and enjoyed plenty of scenic views," shares a visitor to Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. Many trails offer shorter loops with rewarding views.
Rainy day alternatives: Indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate. "We stayed in a cabin at Unicoi State Park after our Spring Break camping trip got rained out. The fireplace was nice and we appreciated the covered parking during the downpour when arrived," mentions a visitor. Several campgrounds offer cabin options as weather alternatives.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Uneven terrain throughout mountain campgrounds requires preparation. "Only reason I don't give them 5 stars is almost every lot is tight and they are not level," notes a camper at Currahee RV Park. Bringing leveling blocks is advisable for most campgrounds in the area.
Hookup positioning: Variable utility locations require flexible setup. "Our site was beautiful on River but our sewer hook up was not where we could access it so only had water/electric," reports an RVer at River Falls at the Gorge. Another mentions, "Only complaint was the sewer hook up went uphill to drain. It drained still but very slowly."
Size restrictions: Length limitations apply at most mountain campgrounds. "Any trailer longer than 25 feet is tight getting to back sites," warns a visitor to Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground. Many campgrounds have similar constraints due to tight turning radiuses and narrow access roads.
Full hookup availability: Limited sewer connections at several campgrounds. "Sites that are in the bend of the river are water/power only and the bath house down there is not as nice as the one up front," advises a camper at River Falls at the Gorge. Researching specific site amenities before booking is recommended.
