Cottonwood Patch Campground provides designated horse camping facilities in the Cohutta Wilderness near Waleska, Georgia. The level sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with primitive conditions including pit toilets. Located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, the campground sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation and experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Multiple equestrian trails connect directly from Cottonwood Patch Campground, with the Benton McKaye trail network accessible nearby. "There are many really nice trails in the area and several are designated horse only so if you own a horse this is a great option that is very close to the trailheads," notes Asher K. from Cottonwood Patch Campground.
Waterfall hiking: A one-mile hike from Hickey Gap Campground leads to a notable waterfall with swimming opportunities. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" reports John B. from Hickey Gap.
Lake recreation: Don Carter State Park offers water-based activities including swimming at a dedicated beach area and boat access. "We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," shares Cameron G.
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Horse campgrounds near the Cohutta Wilderness provide peaceful settings away from crowds. "We were the only campers around and we had an amazing time! Picked a spot right beside a stream. Pretty cold in the mornings but serenity is bliss!" writes Sarah N. from Jacks River Fields Campground.
Creek-side sites: Several equestrian campgrounds feature water access. "Level spots with picnic tables. Not directly on the river but is accessible. A lot of equestrians stay here but anyone can," explains Bob P. about Cottonwood Patch.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites with basic amenities. "Very nice CG with picnic tables, pit toilet and trash can," reports Bob P. about Hickey Gap.
What you should know
Horse-specific facilities: Horse corrals and paddocks are available at certain campgrounds. "Horse camp on one side and creekside camping on the other. Well kept and clean," notes Bob P. about Jacks River Fields Campground.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer primitive facilities. "There is an outhouse on the site but it does not appear like there is any regular upkeep being done," explains Asher K. about Cottonwood Patch.
Rugged access roads: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging terrain. "The road up there is all rock/dirt with a several hundred foot drop-off on the right side and no guardrail. There were a few hairpin turns. And then the driveway to and from the camp area is quite steep," cautions Mike H. from Hickey Gap.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity exists in the Cohutta Wilderness area. "There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box," warns Mike H. from Hickey Gap Campground.
Beach options: Families appreciate designated swimming areas for children. "The camp park is very 3D as the roads wind up and down through the mountain forest. There is lots of shade and a beautiful lake," reports David S. from Timber Ridge Resort.
Scout camp facilities: Camp Woodruff offers structured activities for youth groups. "With a large lake, open field, and well maintained roads and accommodations - Woodruff is one of my favorite camps!" shares Ethan from Camp Woodruff Boy Scout Summer Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Our campsite was a tad bit small for our camper, large campers like motorhomes or fifth-wheels will not fit," advises Cameron G. from Don Carter State Park.
Primitive considerations: RVers need to prepare for limited hookups at most horse campgrounds. "Our 2WD (front wheel drive) Honda Passport struggled to get back up it on our way out, and we had to hit the steepest part with some speed to make it out," reports Mike H. about accessing Hickey Gap.
Water availability: While not all sites have direct hookups, water access is often available nearby. "Not much to say about it pretty much all the sites around the lake area the same in Hall county Gwinnett it was very peaceful nice people was able to find plenty of outdoor stuff to do," notes Neil R. from James Shackleford Memorial Park.
