- Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
The best camping in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
96% (64)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Daniel and Kat
1 week ago
With pets
The Cove is a great camping spot but make sure it’s not 10 degrees before you book it. We learned real quick that our gear and our bodies are not equipped to handle 10 degrees lol
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D
Donald
1 week ago
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great site with full hook ups! Close to a lot of areas to site see and hike!
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Amanda
1 week ago
Tent
Absolutely amazing stay would definitely come back! Ralph was responsive and we had pretty much unlimited wood along with use of the common room all to ourselves. It was an amazing location for tent camping with the creek lulling us to sleep both nights.
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M
Malcolm
2 weeks ago
30 ft campervan
With pets
I loved the grassy field surrounded by trees beside a creek but only stayed to rest one night. More time there would be nice.
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Josh
2 weeks ago
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Private. Clean. Large. Everything as expected. Would stay again.
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Eric
2 weeks ago
Tent
Another incredible stay at Rest and Relax Retreat ! I try to get up here and tent camp at least every 2 to 3 weeks. Ralph does have a couple of cabins that you can rent also but…I prefer tent camping, especially in the winter right next to the creek. As usual, it exceeded my expectations just with the beauty of the place and all the nice accommodations that Ralph provides…such as, a canopy for each tent site, a smokeless fire pit for each site, and a hammock and picnic table also for each site, oh, and did I mention the common house… where there is a seating area with plenty of outlets to recharge your phone or power station if need be, while you enjoy a cup of coffee from the provided Keurig, coffee, sugar and cream, included and or, take a hot shower at one of two bathrooms inside the common house. He also provides firewood at no charge. Most of the time I have so much wood left over that I can’t even burn it all in the weekend stay ! But if I do run low, it is no problem. I can text Ralph or usually before he turns in for the evening… he will do his walk around to each site. Making sure that everyone has anything and everything that they need, before he himself turns in for the night. The land is beautiful, so are his dogs and his goats. You won’t go wrong if you choose this place… relax by the creek 10 feet away, with a campfire going just in front of you, to soothe your anxieties away. Thank you so much again Ralph for everything!
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M
Marion
3 weeks ago
19 ft travel trailer
The campsite was lovely with a view of the horses, donkeys, and goat! This spot is great as a home base to explore the area.
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Larry
December 2025
Tent
If you looking for a nice little getaway and enjoy camping by creeks listening to the running water all night nice and secluded quiet would definitely recommend again for tent campin
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Curtis
November 2025
Tent
Tim was simply over-the-top friendly and helpful. He was very responsive and has a great stream flowing by the campsites. We had a great time and would certainly camp there again.
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Brian
November 2025
3 nights at Your Toccoa River Cove!
Lots of space to move around and the pergola cover offered a lot of shelter from the wind and had all the camping amenities we could need. George even brought up a kerosene space heater for us!
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Todd
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We have stayed at White Dog Farm numerous times now because there is no more beautiful and serene a location. Anna is an amazing host and we feel like family. This is a wonderful camp. Go!
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Brian
November 2025
20 ft campervan
Anna was a wonderful hostess! We loved our spot by the creek, and really enjoyed visiting with the sweet mule in the pasture.
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Katherine
November 2025
With pets
Another great trip to the Cove! For anyone who comes right after us, we set up your first fire logs in the firepit. We brought our own firewood but you’ll find enough logs in the wood crib to do about two fires, plus the giant stumps that are great to prolong the fire if you can get one going. George also has a bale of pine straw in there which is super helpful to get a fire started. My whole review is about fires, can you tell it was cold while we were there haha! Saw several deer and hawks. Lots of stars and quiet.
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D
Daniel
November 2025
Tent
With pets
This site was perfect! Ralph had everything set up for us in advance a canopy, chairs, hammock, fire pit, and all the wood we could need. Loved the trickle sound of the stream at night. Was surprised the price included all the extras. The common area was brand new and clean. We would definitely camp here again or in one of the cabins.
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Jennifer
November 2025
Group trip
As usual, it was a perfect retreat from a busy life. Thank you!
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Robert
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Wonderful camp site #3 next to a lovely creek and a convenient camp toilet. It was easy to find the site, it was very private, and the stars were bright! We included two bundles of wood with our booking and we were very happy with the quality of the wood and the amount. Well worth the money. We would definitely return
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D
D’Ona
November 2025
Tent
11/10 ! absolutely loved this quaint spot. we saw a few deer and a wild turkey during our short stay. the little library out front was such a highlight and made my partner and i feel
so welcomed. we definitely want to come back again. it was my partner’s first time camping and she enjoyed herself so much. we also visited vogel state park which was a 30 min drive and worth it. highly recommend. thank you megan :)
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M
Mahi
November 2025
Weekend Trip to SoulShine Forest
Thank you thank you thank you Lisa & Winton for a beautiful experience. The Lotus Belle is so unique and groovy with those most beautiful art and decorations. We loved the bathhouse so much, so clean and pretty. The whole site is the most unique piece of art you could find. Lisa and Winton are exceptional communicators and so incredibly sweet and accommodating. They went above and beyond to help me surprise my partner for our anniversary 💛 Winton even helped get our car battery fixed when it died at the site - you have no idea how much I appreciate this 💛
Thank you guys so so much for helping me plan this special weekend for my partner and I :)
We can’t wait to visit again ☮️💛
- Mahi & Hannah
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Eric
November 2025
Tent
Another great, relaxing camping trip ! I love this place.. When you are here, you can't help but feel refreshed and renewed. The sound of the creek at night, helps to rock you to sleep and you wake up feeling reinvigorated ! Thanks again Ralph ! Your place is always amazing !!
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S
Shannon
November 2025
Tent
Easy parking area and very nice bathroom! Josh was quick to reply with answers!
See moreThe best camping in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA guide
Overview
About
With more than 800,000 acres of rambling woodlands, rivers, and streams, dotted with mountains, waterfalls, and wilderness areas, Georgia’s only national forest packs a punch. Some 850 miles of trails provide endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV driving, including a 76-mile section of the Appalachian Trail. Hike the highest point at Brasstown Bald, admire the views at Amicalola Falls, and marvel at the ancient petroglyphs of Track Rock Gap, then pitch your tent in the woods or check into one of the more than 30 campgrounds.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for group camping: Lake Winfield Scott Campground has 31 non-electric sites, one with an electric hook-up, plus a rustic cabin.
- Best for lakeside views: Dockery Lake Recreation Area has 10 non-electric tent/RV sites in a stunning waterfront location.
- Best for family campers: Lake Russell Recreation Area offers 42 non-electric sites, plus picnic areas with grills, hot showers, and a swimming beach nearby.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Booking policies vary between campgrounds, so it’s essential to check ahead. Some sites can be booked in advance, while many are first-come, first-served.
- Reservable campsites can be booked via the Recreation.gov website.
- Campsite reservations open six months in advance.
When to go
The most popular times for hiking and outdoor activities in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest are in spring and fall, when temperatures are milder and the forest is at its most colorful. Leaf-peepers take note: Fall foliage peaks from late September through early October. Summer temperatures hover around the mid-80s, so plan a trip to the lakes to cool off. Camping is possible year-round, but many campgrounds close for winter.
Know before you go
- Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest stretches over 18 counties in north Georgia, starting 70 miles north of Atlanta.
- No admission fees apply to visit the forest, but day passes are required for many of the recreational areas. Camping reservation fees also apply.
- Dispersed camping is permitted in many areas of the forest, providing you follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Park facilities include picnic areas and restrooms at day-use and camping areas, but it’s advisable to bring everything you need with you. Cell phone and GPS service can be patchy.
- Accessible campgrounds and day-use areas are available.
96%
64 ratings · 24 reviews
Recommends
· January 2026
Cool National Forest Campground
26 ft Class C · With pets ·
Lake Sinclair Recreation Area
We stayed at Lake Sinclair Recreation Area Campground for two nights in April and had a great experience. The campground was quiet, well-maintained, and felt relaxed without being crowded. One of the biggest highlights was the electric sites being only $15, which is an excellent value for a lakeside campground.
The swimming area was a lot of fun and a nice bonus, especially for warmer afternoons. The campground grounds were clean and well cared for, including the campsites and common areas, which made the stay even more enjoyable.
Overall, this is a great budget-friendly campground with solid amenities, easy lake access, and a peaceful atmosphere. We would definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone looking for affordable camping on Lake Sinclair.
Check out all the sites in our 360° Immersive Video. Look all around like you are there.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AF96uxM1WFQ
Or if you prefer a regular video, check out this one that shows all of the sites and you don't have to look around. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeZvBW4w8vQ
Justin D.
3 reviews
Mixed feelings
· December 2025
I didn’t go to pocket rec. I went to Parksland
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Paul L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Memorial Day Weekend
Tent · With pets · Group trip ·
Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area and Campground
We had a group of 4 adults and 2 dogs in Site 1: well maintained grounds with ample water spigot access, trails around the lake with a swimming area, and quiet at night. The showers seem to be permanently "out of service" but that wasn't an issue for us.
Tanesha T.
4 reviews
Just pitched a day camp for a few hours. very nice dispersed camping. You’ll need to cross a small stream with your vehicle to get to the parking lot. The bottom of the stream is groomed for vehicle crossings, but you probably need a few extra inches of ground clearance I E SUV are similar.
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Mike K.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2024
Great campground, the dirt road to it is fairly well maintained so most vehicles will not have a problem driving there. It fills up fast on weekends when the weather is nice and there's no reservations so get there early if you want a spot.
Kevin B.
4 years on Hipcamp
May 2022
Great campground but the best sites are taken up by the locals and held for their friends and relatives all season long. This campground needs to go on the reservation system to ensure fair access for all.
Neal W.
6 years on Hipcamp
April 2020
Took the kids up for a weekend and could not have been more pleased. Great views and trails. Was able to check in with my wife via email. Kids want to go back.
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Luck J.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
There is a train track not far from the camp ground!
Ben S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2018
We camped here in the rain and found it just right for our needs... Stayed on a Sunday evening and two other sites were occupied, plus the camp host.
Hot showers were available!
Caitlin S.
8 years on Hipcamp
March 2018
Awesome spot to camp. Located off the blueridge. Great ride from the city. Plenty of camping facilities. Good trout fishing but just Georgia stockers. Not very big trout but fun. Located close to rock and cooper creek with a has station down the road.
William P.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
These campsites must be accessed by walking across the bridge over the creek from the parking lot and can require up to a 1/4 mile walk.
Jacob R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
Nice little campground that is not crowded due to the long drive on gravel roads to get to it. Stay at the overflow campground in the off season for even more seclusion.
Jacob R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
Don't forget your fishing rod! Get up early in the summer to beat the summer crowds.
Jacob R.
8 years on Hipcamp
August 2017
Sweet, decently-kept car camping site. There are sites with and without hookups available (sites without hookups are tent-only). I like to go in autumn, when the camp is lightly populated and cooler.
One correction/clarification: As a US Forest Service campground, pets are allowed (on leashes) most everywhere here; however, they're not allowed on the beach area, which is clearly marked.
Cammy M.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
The hikes to the different waterfalls are totally worth it. Show up early - it's a small campground and fills up on holiday weekends.
Andrea B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Great for water sports in summer
Sharon K.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
A hidden gem, The Pocket Campground is adjacent to Johns Mountain and located on a tributary of John's Creek that winds around the camping area. Heavily wooded sites offer more privacy than most developed camping areas.
The campsite has 26 spots with short paved aprons and gravel tent pads. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and lantern post. Water is available throughout the site from communal spigots, but there are no RV hookups. No Electricity.
Bathrooms are flush toilets with sinks and were clean and stocked when we visited. The ranger in charge was nice and pointed out a few nearby hikes and landmarks for us.
Less than 2 miles away is Keown Falls, a beautiful and easy 2-mile hike great for kids!
Jason C.
9 years on Hipcamp
Lake Conasauga is popular, and often the overflow campground area is a necessity if you show up later than 8 pm on Friday. While it's rustic, and not as pretty as the main camping area, it's got great night views of the stars, and much better suited for groups.
Danny B.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
This is one of my go-to areas for a quick weekend of camping; a quick drive up from Atlanta!
Danny B.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
gorgeous area
Danny B.
8 years on Hipcamp
not for the glampers - very primitive. Pack it in, pack it out.
Danny B.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
stopped here in 2016 for a quick 1-nighter on the way to NE Tennessee. Great hidden camping area; deep in mosquitos - bring bug spray.
Danny B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Very family friendly
H
Heather M.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2017
there is a long dirt/gravel road leading to the campgrounds that has barely enough room for 2 cars to pass each other. otherwise this place is wonderful--fire pit, picnic tables, and a beautiful waterfall!
Kat C.
8 years on Hipcamp