The Cherokee National Forest surrounding Etowah provides backcountry camping options across diverse terrain from 1,500 to 5,000 feet elevation. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible year-round though forest service roads can become challenging during winter months and after heavy rain. The majority of sites offer direct water access with varying levels of established facilities.
What to do
Creek swimming and wading: At Goforth Creek Campground A, visitors can access excellent swimming spots throughout summer. "The hike up the creek is really beautiful and a much less traveled trail than others in the area. I highly suggest going all the way to the end and taking a little dip. The water feels wonderful on a hot summer day," shares Asher K.
Fishing opportunities: Several locations provide accessible fishing spots within walking distance of campsites. "Great hikes around and good place to fish and hunt," notes Rayley P. about Lost Creek Campground. The spring and fall months typically offer the best fishing conditions when water levels are moderate.
Day hiking: Trail access from campsites allows for varied hiking experiences without driving. At Goforth Creek Campground B, campers can find "another large campsite that sits further up the creek and is pretty easy to find from the main trail," according to reviewer Asher K. Multiple connecting trails create loop options ranging from 1-7 miles.
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and various bird species. Spring and early summer provide optimal viewing times, particularly during early morning hours. Morning birding is especially productive at creek-side campsites where water attracts numerous species.
What campers like
Creek soundscapes: Campers consistently mention the soothing sounds of running water as a highlight. At Sourwood Campground, Dan R. notes, "The closeness to the river is the main attraction here. It's ever-present sounds make it easy to forget everything."
Site privacy: The spacing between campsites creates a sense of solitude even at more developed areas. "These campsites are extremely spread out, allowing for private camping. No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself," explains Zane P. about Citico Creek Area.
Primitive amenities: Many campers appreciate the basic facilities that maintain a wilderness feel. At Lost Creek Campground, Tyler J. describes it as "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!"
Free camping access: The availability of no-cost sites makes the area popular for budget-conscious campers. "This campground is incredibly clean + quiet—and completely free," shares Brittany S. Most free camping locations operate year-round without permits, though holiday weekends see increased usage.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads require appropriate vehicles with adequate clearance. "I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here," notes Chris D. about accessing Lost Creek Campground. Roads typically remain passable for standard vehicles during dry conditions but deteriorate quickly with rain.
Site competition: Popular camping areas fill quickly during peak season. "Nice but super crowded on the weekend," reports J A. about Lost Creek Campground. Arriving by mid-morning on Friday offers the best chance for securing desirable sites during summer months.
Bear awareness: The entire region requires proper food storage practices. Secure all food, cooking equipment, and scented items in vehicles overnight or use bear-resistant containers. Sites with bear-proof trash receptacles should still be treated as active bear habitat.
Water purification: While creek access provides water sources, treatment is necessary. Carrying a minimum of 1 gallon per person per day is recommended if not filtering creek water. Creek water typically runs clear except after heavy rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Concrete table sites: For easier family camping, seek locations with established facilities. "Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived. There are rest rooms and bear proof trash bins," notes Scott E. about his stay at Lost Creek.
Swimming hole access: Several sites offer shallow water access appropriate for supervised children. Jackson Island Dispersed Campground provides family-friendly water access. "Great view, plenty of spots to set up, great fishing and a surprisingly low amount of bugs!" reports Brendan G.
Weekend noise considerations: Some areas experience increased activity on weekends. "There is so much traffic at all times day and night. It gets pretty aggregating," warns Brandon B. about Jackson Island. Weekday camping typically offers a quieter experience for families with young children.
Restroom facilities: Most dispersed sites lack bathroom facilities entirely. When available, they are primitive. "The restroom, although primitive (no water—bring along some hand sanitizer), is incredibly clean," reports Brittany S. Families should plan accordingly with portable solutions.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. At Citico Creek Area, sites can handle modest setups but with limited maneuverability. "Could not recommend Citico Creek more," mentions Zane P., though noting the primitive nature of the sites.
Leveling challenges: Many creek-side locations feature uneven terrain. "All of the sites had solid packed ground so it would not be hard to level whatever rig you use. Drive right up to the camp site better yet use a truck bed camper or tent," advises Victor S. about Sourwood Campground.
Turn-around space: Limited turning areas restrict larger vehicles. "It would absolutely NOT be a good location for a class A motorhome but maybe some of the smaller class C's could get settled in there I saw a small camper trailer sitting comfortable. I would not like to try to get a larger camper or 5th wheel in there, way too tight to turn around," warns Victor S.
Generator restrictions: Many sites prohibit generator use. "No generators, water, or porta potties," confirms Tyler J. about Lost Creek Campground. This makes these locations better suited to self-contained smaller rigs with alternative power sources.
