Established Camping
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area Campground (Clayton, Ga) — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area Campground, near Clayton, Georgia, is a fantastic spot for those who love being close to nature and the water. Located right by the river, it’s perfect for fishing, tubing, and just soaking up the scenery.
The campground offers a laid-back vibe with sites that provide easy access to the river, making it a popular choice for families and anglers alike. Visitors have raved about the fishing opportunities, with one group catching a whopping 32 trout during their stay. As one happy camper put it, “Great Trout fishing,” which says it all for those looking to cast a line.
While the campground doesn’t have electric hookups or showers, it does have basic bathroom facilities, so you can still enjoy the outdoors without too much hassle. Some campers have mentioned that the sites are close to the road, so keeping an eye on kids and pets is a good idea. But with a swimming hole and a rope swing nearby, there’s plenty of fun to be had.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, Sandy Bottoms is a solid choice. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
Description
Overview
All campsites are available by reservation only, reservations may be made at recreation.govWhether you plan your trip during the rebirth of Spring or later in the year during the display of the prominent North Georgia Fall colors, this 13-site developed campground is sure to heighten the innate beauty of the season. Graced with various species of hardwoods and resting on the shore of Tallulah River, Sandy Bottoms provides a rustic experience for the outdoor enthusiast to camp, swim, fish, or just enjoy the scenery.
Recreation
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area Campground is in a unique area. You can enjoy walking along the Tallulah River. Fishing is a popular sport in the Tallulah River. If a hike is what you desire, take a short drive along the Tallulah River Road through Tate City to the end of the road, which not only has some great views but at the end of the road is Beech Creek Trail and Buck Creek Trail both are found in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness Area. Looking for an easier hike, you can go the other direction on Tallulah River Road for approximately 5 miles to bridge #1 where you will find a small parking area for the Coleman River Trail a 1.1 in and out trail that runs along a portion of the Coleman River that flows with the Tallulah River.
Facilities
The campground offers 13 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and a lantern post at each site. There is a new vault toilet and trash bins located at the center of the campground. Drinking water is available by hand pump during the entire season the campground is open.
Natural Features
Natural Features: Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area Campground is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, a place of exploration and wonder. This National Forest is rich in history and is said to be a hiker's paradise with its winding trails, scenic mountains, and rolling hills.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (706) 754-6221.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to the campground can enjoy scenic drives when going to visit nearby Rabun Bald the second-highest peak in Georgia at 4696 ft above sea level. Continue your exploring and you can find many waterfalls to see and trails to hike. One of the longest trails in the area is the National Recreational Bartram Trail. If some water activities are on your mind the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River has fishing, whitewater rafting, canoe, and kayak possibilities with outfitter and guide services available if you enjoy your time on the river. Tallulah Gorge State Park and historic Lakemont are also a close drive. Lake Rabun and Lake Burton are great places to put a boat in the water and enjoy those memories you are ready to make. Within an hour's drive, you can spend some time visiting the city of Helen a beautiful alpine village in White County if you find yourself there be sure and stop by Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, or Ravens Cliff Wilderness for more hiking fun. While in the neighborhood a short drive around will find you at Brasstown Bald the highest peak in Georgia rising to 4784 ft above sea level.
Fee Info
Beginning May 1st, 2025 all sites will require reservations via recreation.gov for camping at the Sandy Bottoms campground
Location
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area Campground (Clayton, Ga) — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest is located in Georgia
Directions
Take U.S. 76 west from Clayton, Georgia for 8 miles; turn right (north) on Persimmon Road for 4.2 miles; turn left (northwest) on Tallulah River Road (Forest Service Road 70) for 4.6 miles to arrive at Sandy Bottoms Campground.
Address
4841 Tallulah River Road
Clayton, GA 30525
Coordinates
34.78675 N
84.23888 W
Detours Nearby
Three Forks Campground
22 min away
Hickory Flatts Cemetery
32 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Cleveland
- 1 hr 20 min from Gainesville
- 1 hr 41 min from Chattanooga
- 1 hr 42 min from Rome
Access
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
