T
Tammy F.
Guide
GuideLake Chatuge Dispersed
A sign on the gate says that the area has been closed "due to vandalism and unauthorized activity".
Best Dispersed Camping in Georgia
Georgia offers diverse dispersed camping opportunities across varied landscapes from coastal islands to mountain wilderness areas. Little Tybee Island Dispersed provides a unique coastal camping experience accessible only by kayak or boat. This undeveloped 6,000-acre barrier island requires campers to pack in all necessary supplies, including drinking water. The tides are extreme, making careful campsite selection and tide table monitoring essential for safe access and departure. Experienced campers recommend checking wind speed and direction before attempting the approximately one-mile paddle from Tybee Island.
Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area presents primitive camping in a mountainous setting at the base of Bald Mountain (elevation 4,005 feet). According to reviews, this large field accommodates multiple groups with established fire rings throughout. The area connects to several hiking trails, including Tearbritches Trail leading to the summit and down to the Conasauga River. Cell service is typically limited to one bar or nonexistent. Several campers noted that the rough gravel forest service roads require vehicles with higher clearance, though standard 2WD vehicles can navigate with patience.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) like Joe Kurz and Crockford-Pigeon Mountain offer additional dispersed camping options. Visitors to these areas should be aware that a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license is required for camping. Blue Hole Dispersed at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA features good-sized campsites with some areas accessible for RVs, though most sites are suitable for tent camping. Many dispersed sites throughout Georgia lack amenities such as running water, toilets, or trash service. The standard practice is "pack it in, pack it out." GPS coordinates can sometimes be unreliable; campers report being directed to private property or incorrect locations. Look for wooden signs indicating public use areas.
Campground Showdown in Georgia
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Best Dispersed Campgrounds in Georgia (40)
1. Ocmulgee River Camp
9 ReviewsJuliette, GA"Watch carefully for the turn off the main road as it is easy to miss. The road into the camp is a bit bumpy but not too bad."
"Beautiful campsite, just a few neighbors, tons of flat space and a few fire pits. There are hunters around and we heard a good deal of shots. Saw some deer on a walk."
2. Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA
8 ReviewsRising Fawn, GAWebsite+1 (865) 210-2914"I’m giving this place a 5/5 starts for my first experience primitive camping on my own with some friends. We were the first ones there so we had the leisure of picking which site we wanted."
"Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping. We were never bothered and it’s right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail."
3. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area
6 ReviewsCrandall, GAWebsite"This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. GPS is 34.86064073010609,-84.63659794105651. (Photos and this review are from my last stay here on 31 Oct- 02 Nov 2021.) "
"This is a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers (Emery Creek Trail and Tear Britches Trail both have trailheads here) and Overlanders (site is on"
4. Hidden Creek Campground
7 ReviewsCalhoun, GA"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."
"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. The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks."
5. Little Tybee Island Dispersed
5 ReviewsTybee Island, GAWebsite"Campground Review: Little Tybee Island is an undeveloped barrier island off the Georgia coast, that can only be accessed via kayak/boat."
"Bonus is that there’s never a shortage of firewood! Also the sunrise is absolutely spectacular at this site. I think it’s also important to check the wind speed/direction before camping here."
6. Pine Hill Camp
5 ReviewsMillen, GA"Nice site off the beaten path, plenty of room with lots of shade and sun."
"Not a lot of level spots around but we found a spot that worked for our 37' fifth wheel with some leveling. Were also able to position for decent solar exposure."
7. Soggy Boot Campground
6 ReviewsRabun Gap, GA"We came looking for this campsite past dark and after a half hour of driving on a gravel road we gave up searching and just parked on the side of the road for the night."
"Is a little confusing to find but just when you question if you’re heading to the right place, you’re greeted with a fork and small trail down to a massive clearing."
8. Jack's River Falls Trail/Cohutta Wilderness Backcountry Group Camp
4 ReviewsCisco, GA"This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls. Camping is primitive as back country can be but worth the trek."
"Obviously very close to the river to filter water from. We didn't see any wildlife at this site, but we did see a copperhead at another earlier in the trip, so be aware!"
9. Indian Grave Gap Campsite
4 ReviewsHelen, GAWebsite"All three have creek access. We picked the single on the other side. Not a lot of flat ground options. Each site is huge."
"Tents to the west, anything including a small off-road camper for the two sites to the east of the road."
10. Swords Dispersed Campsite
4 ReviewsGreensboro, GA"Dispersed site in the national Forest with a few spots you can occupy. Drive-in is easily done with a 2wd vehicle just take it slow to avoid big holes."
"The road going in is dirt, but maintained well enough for a 2 wheel drive car to get to."
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Georgia
51 Photos of 40 Georgia Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Indian Grave Gap Campsite
SongBird Trail Camp (Cohutta WMA)
Pullout Chattahoochee NFL
Joe kurz WMA Campground
Ocmulgee River Camp
Dicks Creek Falls Campsites off Main Road
Jones Creek Dispersed CampgroundB
Murrays Lake Primitive
Little Tybee Island Dispersed
Murder Creek Parking AreaS
Tyler Hunt Camp
Corbin Creek Tray Mountain
Dispersed Camping Reviews in Georgia
85 Reviews of 40 Georgia Campgrounds
Ladybug
TravelerBlue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA
Not free camping
Nice place but you gotta have a land pass or a hunting or fishing license to camp here. Access is easy to get in here. AT&T signal is good so this is very doable except it’s not free. To camp here for three days cost me 20 bucks.
- LadybugTraveler
Little Farmie Farm Dispersed
No longer a campsite
This is now a bed-and-breakfast and bee farm.
Michael D.
ScoutBall Field Dispersed Camping Area
MDC XT16HR in the Ball Field
Pulled in the middle grassy area to get full sun on my solar panels. I actually found a perfectly level spot even with leaving my truck hooked up. I came here via Mill Creek Road to Cowpen Road, made the first 6 miles in 2WD towing my 5700 lb MDC camper. At the hairpin turn at Cowpen Road I had to engage the 4WD High and manually shifting 1st to 2nd for towing. I didn't air down and my Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tires didn't break loose in any of the gravel or rocks, but it was dry conditions, just slightly wet. Great spot and as quiet as it can get in nature. I'm leaving today and planning to try the other way out, going right it's less unpaved gravel, but either way out it should be downhill and easier than getting here.
- NNoah W.Guide
Preacher's Rock
Sweeping view
Off the road trail leading up to Appalachian trail and incredible view. Very steep rocky switchbacks towards the top. Dispersed sites above the view, decent large spot near vault toilet.
- NNoah W.Guide
High Shoals Falls Trail Dispersed
Hiking In
Rough drive up, AWD recommended. Great secluded campsites 0.5-1.0 mile hike-in. Moderate hike, downhill to campsite, uphill to get out. Larger group sites near creek, great small site right across from Blue Hole.
Tylor C.GuideHidden Creek Campground
Johns mountain
About 5 dispersed spots scattered along an accessible road. Only about 3 spots available that hasn’t been ruined from trash and belongings from people that was staying there long term and left everything. Okay for an overnight stay. All the trash really ruined any vibe to be had. I stayed at the spot on top of the steep hill
- Tylor C.Guide
Soggy Boot Campground
Great secluded spot
The spot I found wasn’t the same site I heard in the reviews. It was a peaceful stay near a creek. It looked like an opening on the other side of the creek if you crossed it but I wasn’t about that life that night lol it was late.
- RRichard A.
RangerPine Hill Camp
Well maintained dispersed site, quiet solitude...
Nice site off the beaten path, plenty of room with lots of shade and sun.
We visited in July and was a bit warm but was able to run our generator as desired as the was only one other camper on this Thursday evening and they were located several hundred feet away.
Of course being a dispersed site there are no hookups, and no fees :)
The road in seemed well maintained and was an easy travel except for the occasional pothole. The campground grass had been recently cut and provided ample areas to set camp, there are even a few rock circles from previous campers that serves as a homemade firepit.
Peaceful and felt safe, was an oasis in an area that has few documented dispersed camping sites.
Guide to Georgia
Georgia offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the tranquility of nature through dispersed camping. With its diverse landscapes and well-maintained access points, adventurers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Top Activities while Free Camping in Georgia
- Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA, where you can immerse yourself in wildlife management and first-come, first-serve camping.
- Experience the beauty of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest at Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area, a popular spot for hikers and overlanders alike.
- Explore the stunning views and trails at Cowrock Mountain, where you can camp near the Appalachian Trail and enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas.
Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers
- Discover the serene environment of Little Tybee Island Dispersed, perfect for kayaking and fishing while surrounded by diverse wildlife.
- Visit Jack's River Falls Trail/Cohutta Wilderness Backcountry Group Camp for a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning waterfalls and a chance to snorkel in clear creek waters.
- Experience the remote beauty of Ocmulgee River Camp, where you can enjoy flat spaces and fire pits while being close to nature.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Hidden Gems
- For a secluded experience, head to Soggy Boot Campground, where you can find spacious sites near a creek surrounded by forest.
- Explore the primitive charm of Murrays Lake Primitive, featuring secluded spots and a small lake ideal for a quiet getaway.
- Enjoy the tranquility of Indian Grave Gap Campsite, which offers multiple sites with creek access and is perfect for larger groups looking to spread out.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season for dispersed camping in Georgia?
When is the best season for dispersed camping in Georgia?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for dispersed camping in Georgia. Fall is particularly beautiful at Unicoi Gap Dispersed, where you can enjoy colorful foliage while still being minutes from Helen and local wineries. Summer can be quite hot and humid, especially in coastal areas like Little Tybee Island Dispersed, though the beach setting provides cooling breezes. Winter camping is possible with proper gear, particularly in lower elevations, but mountain areas can experience freezing temperatures and occasional snow. Each season offers different wildlife viewing opportunities, with spring bringing wildflowers and fall offering clearer views on mountain trails.
Where are the best dispersed camping areas in North Georgia?
Where are the best dispersed camping areas in North Georgia?
North Georgia offers excellent dispersed camping options in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area near Lake Conasauga is a popular spot for both hikers and overlanders, providing access to Emery Creek and Tearbritches Trails at the base of Bald Mountain. For those seeking water proximity, Jones Creek Dispersed Campground offers sites along the river accessible via a narrow dirt road. Other notable areas include Unicoi Gap near Helen, Blue Hole Dispersed at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA, and Hidden Creek Campground, though be aware some locations have challenging access roads with potholes that may not be suitable for low-clearance vehicles.
Is free camping in Georgia legal and what permits do I need?
Is free camping in Georgia legal and what permits do I need?
Free dispersed camping is legal in Georgia's national forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with some restrictions. Most areas allow up to 14 consecutive days of camping. At Murder Creek Parking Area, camping is permitted though it's primarily used as a parking lot for creek access. For WMAs like Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA, you'll need a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license, or a Lands Pass, which serves as your camping permit. National forest lands generally don't require specific permits for dispersed camping, but always check current regulations as they can change seasonally. Some areas may have temporary closures or fire restrictions depending on conditions and time of year.
What amenities can I expect at primitive camping sites in Georgia?
What amenities can I expect at primitive camping sites in Georgia?
Dispersed camping sites in Georgia are truly primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Pine Hill Camp, you'll find level spots suitable for larger rigs but should expect no facilities. Hidden Creek Campground is similar, offering natural surroundings but no services. Most dispersed sites have established fire rings but no trash service, restrooms, or potable water. Cell coverage varies dramatically - Pine Hill Camp reports minimal T-Mobile service with slightly better AT&T signal. You'll need to pack in all supplies including water and pack out all trash. Many sites offer natural features like creek access or mountain views as the primary appeal. Plan for complete self-sufficiency with no electricity, running water, or sanitation facilities.
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