Dispersed camping opportunities in the mountain forests surrounding Young Harris, Georgia typically range from 2,000 to 4,500 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F days and 55-65°F nights. The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest manages most sites, with restrictions including 14-day stay limits and requirements for camping at least 150 feet from water sources. Rustic camping near Young Harris provides access to both Georgia and North Carolina wilderness areas through numerous Forest Service roads.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Access multiple cascades from High Shoals Falls Trail Dispersed camping area where sites are positioned alongside High Shoals Creek. One camper noted, "The trail contains 2 beautiful Georgia waterfalls, Blue Hole Falls and High Shoals Falls. The area is lush with mountain laurel, rhododendrons, and old-growth trees."
Night sky observation: The dark skies at Corbin Creek Tray Mountain offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. According to a recent visitor, "All of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia," making it "worth it if you're into astrophotography."
Creek fishing: Multiple sites provide direct water access. At Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, one camper shared, "I stayed at 7 in a van. It had level parking and I could walk down to the bank to fish and have a fire."
Mountain trail exploration: The Appalachian Trail crosses through the region with several access points. A camper at Cowrock Mountain reported, "Dispersed camp sites at or near the summit of Cowrock Mountain offer wonderfully shaded spots with long range views of the Blue Ridge."
What campers like
Secluded creekside spots: Many primitive camping areas feature water access and natural soundscapes. A camper at Fires Creek Hunters Camp/Huskins Branch described, "This is a little loop drive across from a day use area on Fires Creek. Pick a spot, and set up your tent... Huskins Branch runs through the middle of the area."
Multiple site layouts: Different camping areas accommodate various group sizes. At Indian Grave Gap Campsite, a visitor noted, "Three campsites in the immediate area. Two are on one side of the road. You have to cross thru one to get to the other. All three have creek access."
Natural swimming areas: Several sites feature swimming holes in addition to regular water access. At Soggy Boot Campground, one camper shared, "You can also hike up or down the stream to get to other beautiful small falls that are perfect for swimming in during the hot summers."
Flat camping pads: Despite rugged surroundings, many sites offer prepared tent areas. A Corbin Creek visitor mentioned, "Wonderful stream running through the campsite," with options for "hike in style camp with the convenience of having your vehicle."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires careful driving. As one visitor to Soggy Boot Campground observed, "Road is very bumpy... the directions get you to the general area fine. The campsites are hard to find in the dark."
Site availability fluctuates: Many locations operate solely on first-come basis with no reservations. A camper at Long Hungry Road noted, "Seems like people setup tents to hold sites and don't return for days. It was the week before Labor Day so maybe I'll have better luck next time."
Limited amenities at most sites: Basic facilities are rare at these primitive locations. At Fires Creek, a visitor explained, "Primitive campground. No designated campsite. Just claim your spot. No cell service. Fires creek across the road. The branch has water most of the year."
Trash management concerns: Previous campers sometimes leave debris. At Lake Chatuge Dispersed, a reviewer noted, "Great view of lake. Campsite is right on the water. This site is primitive. Previous campers didn't take their trash with them. Only negative to this site."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with easier water access: For families with children, look for camps with gentle approaches to water. At Bly Gap - Dispersed Camping, a visitor reported, "Running water out of a pipe (it's a spring I guess?) just south of the ridge, but you'll need to boil or filter before drinking."
Consider proximity to facilities: Some primitive sites offer basic amenities. Fires Creek Hunters Camp provides "a concrete outhouse but no potable water," according to a recent visitor, making it slightly more suitable for families than completely undeveloped sites.
Plan for weather variability: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly. A camper at Bly Gap noted, "I was here in the middle of November and so it was cold and windy at night," highlighting the need for proper clothing and gear.
Space between campsites: Sites with buffer zones provide more privacy for families. At Long Hungry Road, one camper observed, "Sites are so spread out it feels like you're the only one on the lake!"
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads demand appropriate vehicles. At Corbin Creek Tray Mountain, one RVer advised, "A 4wd with moderate clearance is helpful," while another noted it's "more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles."
Consider roof-top tenting: For roads too rough for trailers, elevated car camping provides alternatives. At Long Hungry Road, a visitor explained, "We camped in a RTT on the pulloff across from the site, saw a few other vans doing the same."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some rustic camping areas near Young Harris can accommodate modest RVs. At Lake Chatuge, tent and RV camping is permitted, though amenities are minimal with no hookups available.
Turnaround space limitations: Backing up can be challenging on narrow forest roads. A Long Hungry Road camper noted, "At the end of the road there is a turn around space if needed," which is critical information for vehicles with limited maneuverability.
