Dispersed camping near Cave Spring, Georgia offers primitive sites within the northwest Georgia foothills, situated between 600-800 feet elevation with moderately humid subtropical conditions. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Spring and fall camping provides the most comfortable conditions with moderate rainfall and vibrant vegetation changes.
What to do
Explore cave systems: The Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area contains numerous caves beyond the well-known Ellison Cave. The Blue Hole Dispersed area serves as a convenient base camp. "We were never bothered and it's right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail," reports camper Ava R.
Visit lookout towers: Several fire towers remain accessible in the region, offering panoramic views. The Sky Mtwy Dispersed area contains historical fire tower remnants. "This spot is where the lookout tower office used to be. It burned years ago but the concrete pad is still here," notes Robert J., who recommends checking out nearby towers still standing.
Night sky observation: The limited light pollution makes this region suitable for stargazing. Sky Mtwy Dispersed camping area provides elevated positions away from dense forest cover. Camper Zoey T. mentions, "Completely quiet. Maybe 3 cars pulled past all day. Some cell service. Plenty of trails to hike."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Hidden Creek Campground offers isolation from crowds and vehicle traffic. Patrick R. appreciates that it's "very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here," making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Swimming opportunities: Natural water features provide cooling options during hot months. The Blue Hole at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA contains a deep spring-fed pool. Michael M. describes it as having "a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good."
Group-friendly areas: Group Camp near Blue Mountain Shelter accommodates larger parties with multiple tent spaces. "This specific site is more suited for groups however since it has multiple flat areas for lots of tents and several fire pits if you want to spread out," explains Asher K.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions frequently lead to incorrect locations or private property. For Hidden Creek Campground, Robyn W. advises, "GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is."
Seasonal pest activity: Ticks present a significant concern, particularly in spring and early summer. Richard C. reports from Blue Hole Dispersed, "stepped out just to see the clearance on a turn and got in with 4 ticks on me."
Land management regulations: Different rules apply to different dispersed camping areas. Sarah H. notes that at Blue Hole Dispersed "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose camping areas with natural features that entertain children. Blue Hole Dispersed at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain provides swimming opportunities in warmer months. Sav reports it's "So peaceful! A couple of other people there and a little bit of trash, but I picked it up."
Weather preparation: Northwest Georgia experiences rapid weather changes, especially in spring. Pack additional layers and rain gear regardless of forecast. At Sky Mtwy Dispersed, Cheyenne T. warns of unpredictability: "It's a nice ride up on a very steep at times dirt road. It's private but there's a ton of houses in the area with people driving up and down the road."
Campsite alternatives: Have backup locations identified in case primary sites are full or inaccessible. Richard C. found Blue Hole campground "was beyond capacity. Went to the Ada site and it looked like it was a cruel joke? Unsure. But there's no way."
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: Hidden Creek Campground access requires careful vehicle evaluation. Heidi H. cautions, "A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Site size limitations: Many dispersed sites accommodate only smaller RVs or pop-ups. Ava R. managed at Blue Hole Dispersed with "our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Water crossing awareness: Seasonal rain affects low water crossings on forest roads. After precipitation, allow 24-48 hours for drainage before attempting crossings with heavier vehicles.
