37 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Campgrounds near Young Harris, Georgia range from established state parks to private resorts, with most facilities concentrated within a 20-mile radius. Vogel State Park Campground in nearby Blairsville offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins with year-round availability, while Trackrock Campground & Cabins provides similar accommodations with boat access. Several campgrounds in the area feature lake or mountain views, including Unicoi State Park & Lodge near Helen and Bald Mountain Camping Resort in Hiawassee, which operates seasonally from April through November. The Young Harris camping region includes both public and private camping areas with varying levels of development and amenities.
Road conditions and campground accessibility vary significantly by season and elevation in the North Georgia mountains. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during fall foliage season when visitation peaks. "We hit the leaf change just right this year on Oct 31st. There's nice trails in the park one around the lake & one to a small waterfall across the street," noted one camper about Fort Mountain State Park. Weather patterns in the mountains can create significant temperature differences between valley and ridge locations, with higher elevations remaining cooler even during summer months. Cell service is limited in many camping areas, with several reviewers mentioning spotty or non-existent coverage. Most developed campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, while some also offer sewer connections and dump stations.
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites and mountain views as key highlights of the region. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful sound of creeks and streams as enhancing their camping experience. A recent review noted, "Our spot was about a quarter mile from the parking area which has public restrooms available, and we were right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night." The proximity to hiking trails and waterfalls represents another common theme in visitor feedback, with Raven Cliff Falls and various state park trails frequently mentioned. Campgrounds closer to Helen and other tourist areas tend to be more crowded but offer convenient access to attractions, while more remote sites provide greater solitude. Wildlife sightings, including black bears, are occasionally reported, requiring proper food storage and awareness.
"Vogel State Park was perfectly situated along Hwy 19 in the north Georgia mountains for an easy spot for the night."
"Vogel State Park is hands down one of the nicest parks in Georgia. It has great hiking trails for every level of hiker, and a very beautiful lake that's great for fishing and paddling."
Available this weekend
from $30 - $290 / night
"Great campground surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia mountains. Also a working horse farm so be sure and schedule a guided horseback ride. Full hookup sites that are private."
"Good sized campground tucked into the mountains. I brought my dog with me and had a great time. There is a lake that you can fish in, stables to ride horses, and hiking trails on the campground."
"The tent camp site was good, bathrooms and water were a close walking distance.
We picked this state park for all the activities. We took archery lessons and did the zip line course.""Nestled in pristine North Georgia mountains. Good for single, family or even group campers. Close to a wonderful Bavarian town know as Helen Georgia."
"Located on Lake Chatuge in both North Carolina and Georgia, you can ride right to the biking trails or launch your paddleboard right from your lakeside site. "
"Parking is right above the steps that go down to the tent pad. This site has direct water access for swimming and fishing. This particular site has no shade between noon and 4."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 - $40 / night
"We stayed at the adult tent site 74 which is really close to one of the waterfalls."
"The spot we were in was really close to the store and had a nice deck with a picnic table."
Available this weekend
from $55 / night
"For a small fee you can play mini golf or rent a paddle boat or kayak for use in the private lake."
"We stayed in Lakefront Cabin C09 across from the lake. The campground was very quiet with no road noises and such, and we had a beautiful view of the mountains surrounding the campground."
"There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends. There is water and bathroom access."
"Raven Cliff Falls is another popular spot in Northeast Georgia. Its on one one of the most scenic highways and s in a great location if you want to venture into Helen, Brasstown, Bald, or Hiawassee."
"We stayed in site 5 which is close to bathrooms but not too close. We had a beautiful view of the lake and our site was right next to the river."
"Its right next to the trout hatchery and Lake Burton so you have great access to recreation on the water."
Available this weekend
from $40 - $45 / night
"We were in spot 30 which was not a great spot as it was right next to the road and your awning/outdoor area faces the road."
"The only lakeside site available was #20. That was probably because it was small (~25' max). But the view was great. Sites are well maintained."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $35 / night
"All campsites are within walking distance to Lake Chatuge. Restrooms are the best we’ve seen, but they are more than adequate."
"Not many places you can enjoy the lake, trails nearby, and a concert all right there."
GuideLeft Pigeon Forge Tn. GPS took us on an adventure, route 129 The Tail of the Dragon 318 curves switchback and hairpins I was nervous but slayed it. Lol. Peachtree Cove RV Park is perfect for quiet camping. Dog run area stream or river at most sites. I had a reservation at Andrew’s Valley Railway Tour highly recommend both of these
ScoutI camped here with a friend last weekend and absolutely loved this place! It's a cute little site with a great host, clean bathrooms, free firewood, and super friendly dogs, goats, and people. I would for sure stay here again and recommend.
GuideParksville Lake RV Campground is an absolute gem! I had a fantastic stay here. The campground is beautifully maintained, and the sites are nice, spacious, and wonderfully shaded by the trees. We loved the layout of the RV loop, especially the outer section where a peaceful creek flows right past the sites—the sound of the water at night was perfect. The restrooms and showers were exceptionally clean and well-kept. I had Starlink connectivity at my site and my WeBoost cell signal booster gave me up to three bars on AT&T. The campground host was incredibly nice, welcoming, and helpful. It's a wonderful, relaxing spot, and I will definitely be back!
ScoutWe stayed for a week in late October. Quiet and secluded but right outside of Franklin. Very. Nicely decorated. Has small campstore, very nice laundryroom, and a guest event center. Rick, the campsite host, helped me get backed in and asked if I needed any more help. Some pull-throughs. Some sites are a little tight but others really nice. We will definitely come back.
ScoutWhatever person or group of persons designed the campground were clueless as to how to develop a campground. Sites are packed in the most preposterous configuration to have tents, trailers motorhomes all jammed together nearly touching each other with zero privacy. Come for the hikes and views of the gorge but come with the lowest expectations for the campground and you’ll be fine
TravelerMy son, daughter-in-law, and twin grandchildren, and I camped here to watch the full solar eclipse in 2017. We had a beautiful tent site. There was a little playground that the kids really enjoyed and abundant shade at the camping site. Bathrooms were clean, wood for campfires was available, and we had a wonderful time.
GuideA sign on the gate says that the area has been closed "due to vandalism and unauthorized activity".
GuideThis is one of several USFS campgrounds that are within a few miles of each other. The cost is only $8/night, first come first served. The sites are fairly large with about half of them on a wide, clear creek. There is no running water, but there are bear proof trash cans and vault toilets that were fairly clean, but didn't smell great.
There is free potable water and an RV dump station about a mile away at the North River Game Checking Station on River Road near the Spivey Cove campground..
The campsite was clean with picnic table, fire ring, and a lantern post. The fire ring was almost full of ashes and it appears that campers have to clean them out themselves.
The Green Cove Angler store is a couple miles away and has ice, firewood and other camper things.
Unfortunately, while we were there, it was bear hunting season and another camper had multiple barking and baying dogs that went on and on for hours.
ScoutWalk to trail sites, clean bathrooms, sites close together…water and electric at site. Sites are sloped gravel.
Camping spots near Young Harris, Georgia range from rustic tent sites to full-service campgrounds with waterfront access. Located at elevations between 1,800 and 2,500 feet, this region's temperatures typically run 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas. Most campgrounds in the area require advance bookings during summer weekends and fall color season when temperatures average 70-80°F daytime and 50-60°F overnight.
Hiking nearby waterfalls: At Vogel State Park Campground, trails offer access to Trahlyta Falls and numerous other waterfall options. "The hiking both from Vogel State Park and nearby are incredible. Take half a day and climb Blood Mountain along the Appalachian Trail. Views from the summit are breathtaking...doing the hike is also a little breathtaking too," notes camper Dave V.
Mountain biking excursions: The Jackrabbit Mountain trail system provides 15 miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails for all skill levels. "The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are absolutely amazing for all skill levels," explains Katrin S., who adds "There is a 1.5 mile connector dirt trail to the Jackrabbit mountain trail system, so no need to ride on the road."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated fishing access, with Moccasin Creek State Park providing specialized fishing areas. "The fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to seniors 65 and older and children 11 and younger, and any Georgia residents with a disability fishing license," reports Joel R.
Creek-side camping: Tent campers particularly appreciate sites positioned along flowing water. At Enota Mountain Retreat, "The property is well maintained and beautiful with waterfalls, streams, and a lodge. We stayed at the adult tent site 74 which is really close to one of the waterfalls," shares Angela M., who adds "Site 82 is the most private still on the water and like a little forest dream site."
Lake views: Many campgrounds offer lake access for swimming and boating. At Gibson Cove Campground, "All sites are either lakefront or lakeview. There are water and power hook-ups, no sewer," notes Elizabeth W. Another camper advises: "Pay the extra for the lakeside sites, and get up for sunrise."
Secluded forest sites: Campers seeking more privacy can find tent sites tucked away from main camping areas. At Raven Cliff Falls, "Our spot was about a quarter mile from the parking area which has public restrooms available, and we were right next to Dodd Creek," reports one camper. Another adds, "Behind the parking lot there are quite a few campsites... They're spread along the stream, in the shade and accessible by well worn paths."
Wildlife precautions: Black bears are active throughout the region. "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out. So pack out all food items and trash or hang a bear bag," warns a camper at Raven Cliff Falls.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Bald Mountain Camping Resort, campers can book "nightly, weekly, monthly and seasonal sites" with great views of Brasstown Bald.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely by location and carrier. At Enota Mountain Retreat, one camper noted "my favorite thing about this place is that there is no cell service (I have Verizon so it may be different for others)." At Jackrabbit Mountain, service is similarly limited.
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Jackrabbit Mountain is "open from May to September" while Moccasin Creek State Park operates from "March 16 to November 30."
Kid-friendly fishing: At Moccasin Creek State Park Campground, special fishing areas are reserved for children. "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.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Vogel State Park, "There are two separate children's playgrounds... One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer lake access for swimming. At Unicoi State Park, "They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp. The swimming part of the lake has a small beach with sand and the lake is roped off for swimming," reports Diane G.
Site selection considerations: At Trackrock Campground & Cabins, fifth-wheel owners should carefully consider access routes. "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times," warns Anthony M. who experienced significant damage to their rig.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer a mix of partial and full hookups. At Trackrock, you'll find "Full hookup and wifi" though some campers note the site surfaces "aren't super level but it was ok."
Seasonal access limitations: Mountain roads can be challenging during winter. Georgia Mountain Fair Campground remains open year-round, though one camper notes "it does take a bit of work to get here as some of the 2 lane roads make for challenging driving pulling a large 5th wheel, but it can be done if you exercise care."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking trails near Young Harris, GA?
Young Harris offers excellent hiking options for all skill levels. Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground features scenic trails with stunning mountain vistas and varying difficulty levels. For waterfall enthusiasts, Raven Cliff Falls provides a beautiful trail leading to impressive cascades, though be prepared for high weekend traffic. The Appalachian Trail sections near Siler Bald offer challenging hikes with rewarding views. Mountain biking enthusiasts should check out the extensive trail system at Jackrabbit Mountain near Lake Chatuge. For less strenuous options, Vogel State Park's Bear Hair Gap Trail offers a moderate 4-mile loop with beautiful forest scenery.
Where are the top campgrounds near Young Harris, Georgia?
Jackrabbit Mountain is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering lakeside camping on Lake Chatuge with direct access to mountain biking trails and water activities. While it lacks hookups, the scenic location makes it worth roughing it. Vogel State Park Campground provides well-maintained sites with hot showers in a manicured setting along Highway 19. For private camping, Trackrock Campground & Cabins near Blairsville offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities. Those seeking lake views should consider Georgia Mountain Fair Campground in nearby Hiawassee with convenient drive-in access.
What are the best times to visit Young Harris for camping?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant camping conditions near Young Harris, with mild temperatures and less humidity. Fort Mountain State Park Campground is especially popular in summer due to its higher elevation providing cooler temperatures when the Georgia heat is intense. The wooded campsites offer welcome shade for summer tent camping. Don Carter State Park Campground on Lake Lanier is excellent for late spring through early fall visits when water activities are most enjoyable. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cold nights and possible snow at higher elevations, especially in January and February.
What amenities are available at Young Harris campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Young Harris offer varying levels of amenities. Moccasin Creek State Park Campground provides close-proximity sites with convenient access to bath houses, though some campers find the sites too close together. Doll Mountain Campground on Carter's Lake features lakefront camping with typical Army Corps of Engineers facilities, but be prepared for steep hills and switchbacks. For a more rustic experience, Nacoochee Adventures offers private sites near Helen with creekside camping and natural surroundings. Most established campgrounds in the area provide potable water and toilet facilities, while RV amenities like electrical hookups and dump stations vary by location.
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