Cabins near Turnerville, Georgia sit nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where elevations range from 1,400 to 2,500 feet above sea level. The region experiences mild springs, warm summers with temperatures typically between 75-85°F, and vibrant fall colors from mid-October through early November. During summer months, overnight lows can drop into the 60s even when daytime temperatures are in the 80s, making evening campfires comfortable year-round.
What to do
Hiking the gorge floor: Permits are required and limited to 100 daily for access to the Tallulah Gorge floor. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," notes Jamie M. about Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfalls within short driving distances offer varying difficulty levels. "A ton of waterfalls. A very pretty gorge, you will walk up and down lots of stairs! Stop by if you are in the area," shares Aaron S. about their experience at Tallulah Gorge.
Lake activities: Swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities abound at nearby lakes. At Tugaloo State Park Campground, "Lots of fun for families who enjoy the water. Also you can see fishing boats zoom to their fishing location at night," according to Benita P.
River tubing: The Tallulah River offers natural tubing opportunities right from several campgrounds. "Tubing the river is great fun and easy to do without leaving the campground," explains Clay M. about River Falls at the Gorge.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Secluded options exist for those seeking more isolation. "Very beautiful primitive sites. Bear boxes at each campsite. This site was a bit far from parking, so I'd recommend packing your things in a backpack. Beautiful view of Clayton at night," reports Hanna P. about Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. According to Timothy H., "The standard State Park bathrooms and showers are available. In the summer when there are leaves and green on all the trees, it's breathtaking with the views."
Riverside relaxation: Many campers appreciate sites located along water. "We had a spot right on the river. Full hookups. Clean bathrooms and showers. Incredible river to fish and swim in," shares Sarah R. about River Campground, LLC.
Mountain views: Higher elevation campgrounds offer scenic vistas. "The campground sits at 2500 ft. so it was comfortably cool," notes Dave V. about Vogel State Park, adding that "numerous very nice cabins are available for rental, from efficiency to 3 bedroom interspersed throughout the park."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," advises Ashley S. about Oconee State Park Campground.
Seasonal water releases: Dam schedules affect water levels and access. "We called ahead and the gorge floor/Sliding Rock Trail were supposed to be closed for water release, but the day that we left we found that it was actually opened," shares Jessica A. about Tallulah Gorge.
Campsite size variations: Some cabins and sites have limited space. "Our site was beautiful on River but our sewer hook up was not where we could access it so only had water/electric," mentions Cassondra P. about River Falls at the Gorge.
Advance planning: Reservations for cabins near Turnerville fill quickly, particularly on weekends. "If you book early and get a water front sites, they were nice," suggests the reviewer 5Dudes about Tugaloo State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. "There are multiple types of sites, full hook up (including sewer), partial hook up, as well as cabins and permanent RVs to rent... a craft cabin where they have really fun crafts such as tie dye and wreath making," explains Tiffany B. about River Falls at the Gorge.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas with different amenities. At Unicoi State Park & Lodge, "The swimming part of the lake has a small beach with sand and the lake is roped off for swimming. There is a small store that has everything, from s'mores to items you may run out of," according to Diane G.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife and nature programs enhance family experiences. Elaine G. shared that Black Rock Mountain was "the most incredible place to view the eclipse. The experience was so phenomenal."
Easy hiking trails: Shorter trails suitable for children connect many cabin areas to main attractions. Robert R. notes about Tallulah Gorge: "Really enjoyed camping here with my family. Took our 19, 11, and 4 year old. Tested the trails and enjoyed plenty of scenic views."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. According to Andrea W., River Falls at the Gorge sites "closest to the highway are full hookup, gravel lots and there is a paved drive. Sites that are in the bend of the river are water/power only... The only reason I don't give them 5 stars is almost every lot is tight and they are not level."
Access limitations: Some roads leading to cabin rentals have tight turns. "Any trailer longer than 25 feet is tight getting to back sites," warns Ted D. about Black Rock Mountain State Park.
Utility hookup locations: Several campgrounds have unusual placement of connections. At Tugaloo State Park, Kevin A. reports: "Water, electric and cable tv connections. No sites with sewer, but dump station has two receptacles so there was no wait to dump tanks on way out."
Weather preparations: Mountain elevations can create unexpected temperature drops, even in summer. A reviewer notes that at Lake Russell Recreation Area, "The campsites have a firepit, picnic bench - and table, and a lantern pole. Some of the sites were not very private and more open without shade."
