Best Camping in and near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

98% (52 reviews)

Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

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Community favorites near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

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(699)

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

13 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

We are open for fall camping. We’ve had no storm damage in our area and the roads in this area are open. Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing along little snowbird creek which is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

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Mountain Creek Rest

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you have children! The Diamondstone site is a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind tentsite, EXCEPT a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin is provided for you instead of your tent!!! Leave your tent and set-up at home! There is also room for a tent and your children out front, right beside the creek! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!

100%

(13)

Mulberry Gap - Camping & Van Stays

11 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Ellijay, GA

BE IN THE WOODS Regardless of your preferred mode of recreation, we want you to be in the woods. Play, stay, eat, drink, and relax with us at Mulberry Gap! * Strong "Summer Camp, but for adults & families" vibe! * Glampy-style Cabin, Campsite, and Car/Van Sites * Located right on the Pinhoti Trail * Awesome meals available on weekends * Miles of singletrack for mountain biking, hiking and trail running * Even more miles of gravel roads for gravel cyclists and motorcycle adventure riders * Nearby lakes, rivers, and streams for fishing, kayaking, SUP, tubing, and rafting! * Just 25 minutes from destination mountain town Ellijay, Georgia filled with wineries, apple houses, boutique businesses, and tons of great dining! Wake up in the mornings and join us for an amazing breakfast. Then gear up to rip down loamy singletrack, scramble across rocky ridge lines, splash through cold water creeks under towering stands of hemlock and wind through rhododendron tunnels. End your days with a hearty dinner and relaxing in a bubbling hot tub. The friendships forged fireside, the communion with nature, and the stargazing will have you coming back for more!

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(117)

NEW!!!! Blue Ridge Basecamp

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Topton, NC

Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 5 fully stocked campers and 5 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available April 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20 minute drive.

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(38)

Camping in the woods in Ocoee

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Ocoee, TN

The Farm on Federal is a beautiful 11 acre property in the heart of Ocoee, Tennessee! Park your RV, camper, camper van or even tent camp on our beautiful forested farm. You will have access to many different kinds of sites on our property. We offer full hookup RV sites as well as camper van and car camping sites and even rustic tent campsites! We raise rotationally-grazed, beyond-organic, forest-fed and pasture raised chicken eggs, meat chickens, pork and lamb. Peak into our small-scale farming operation! You will be in the middle of Ocoee - close to all kinds of water adventures on the Ocoee or Hiwassee River and Parksville Lake. We do offer kayak and tube rentals as well as a shuttle service to the river! There is also lots of land adventures like hiking, mountain biking and much more in the Cherokee National Forest. Also located only 15 minutes from downtown Cleveland and 45 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. We offer a sewer dumping station for a small fee, fast Wifi, fire wood, fresh farm products, as well as from scratch sourdough products/baked goods/other tasty treats and much more! For more information, you can view our website. Other Things to Note: While we have well behaved and calm animals, this is not a petting zoo. Please do not approach the animals. Also, all fences are hot, meaning electrified and on... do not touch!

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(69)

Castleberry Bridge

15 sites · Tents16 acres · Dahlonega, GA

850 Castleberry Bridge Road, Dahlonega, GA 30534. Come join us at this unforgettable camping spot at Historic Castleberry Bridge where the Gold Rush happened, the Indian fish trap still exist, the birth place of Denver Colorado and the hideout of Jesse James just some of the history that happened at your campsite on the Etowah River. Our motto is "Thanks for keeping it clean," so help us spread the word and keep it true! Look for the gate at 850 Castleberry Bridge Rd (right where the bridge crosses the river) and drive through the gate and George (owner) should be there. He will open the second gate for you where you will be able to drive through and park at your site - weather permitting. To the left of the first gate is the community area with toilet, grills, picnic tables, etc. Remember, your phone might not work near the river. If you need help, you might have to go back up to the road to call us. George (the owner) is there most every day and all day. For help contact George or Gini Ferris 4044312564 7272043932. There's so much fun waiting for you to explore! Imagine climbing onto a tube and floating down the river for a whole 15 minutes. And guess what? You can start this awesome ride by the walking up river trail through the community area , under the bridge to the last bench that sits on a sand bar then float back down to your camp site. Tubes are available for a $5 charge per day. If you're feeling extra adventurous, there are rope swings that let you swing over the river, and there are super cool places to splash around and swim, part of which, is in the Indian Fish Trap. When your tummy starts rumbling, don't worry. We've got you covered with grills in the community area where you can cook delicious food. So you can have a tasty meal with the sound of the river flowing in the background. Also we are within 5-10 minutes to stores, restaurant , etc. But wait, there's more excitement! If you're looking for an even bigger adventure, this is the perfect spot to begin an awesome kayaking trip if you brought your kayak. Castleberry Bridge is where people from all over the country come to experience going through the Miner's Tunnel. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=jW3ESWCNdLA ) This 4 hour trip and is an experience of a life time you will never forget. So whether you want to float, swing, swim, or paddle, Castleberry Bridge is the place to be for all kinds of outdoor fun! Camping price is for 2 adults. Kids camp free. For an additional fee you may add more adults to your group. George can arrange a pick for your kayak trip for $39 if needed. Amenities Free Firewood Community area for your use has: Restroom Grills Tubes and life jackets First Aid Kits Tube Pumping Stations Trashcans Benches and Picnic Tables

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(20)

Mountain Adventure Outfitters

10 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Murrayville, GA

MAO is any OHV enthusiast’s oasis! We offer multiple creek-side campsites for your enjoyment. Our site boasts a variety of non-typical on-site activities including OHV trail/obstacles, an RC crawler park/trail loop, an RC short course track, and creek side hiking trail. Campsite bookings include MTN ADV Day Pass. Come and experience our growing Off-Road/Outdoor Adventure-based facility. Stay tuned for new accommodations and campsites currently in the works! We do have a free roaming Great Dane named Myla that might visit your campsite throughout your stay, she is very friendly and loves attention! Find more local activities here: https://www.mtnjeeps.com/camp

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(43)

Herzen Platz (a place in the Heart)

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sautee Nacoochee, GA

Learn more about this land: 15 ft Diameter bell tent with Queen bed, glamping in comfort. Close trails, right on the stream, electric and water, large bell tent, modern outhouse, close to the German Village of Helen Georgia. Ziplining, Alpine Coaster and Wineries nearby. New. Hot tub, Hot shower included. Breakfast is available daily.

90%

(29)

Lula Disc House

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents125 acres · Lula, GA

Hello Campers, We are a 125 acre property that has 36 holes of championship disc golf. The North Oconee River runs through our property as well as three ponds throughout. We have plenty of room to pitch your tents. It really depends on how far you would like to be from the bathhouse. We are 6 miles from Lake Lanier and the Chattahooce River, and a short drive to hiking/mountain biking trail heads. We have a wonderful bathhouse with restrooms, showers and laundry just a very short walk from our sites (maintained by the staff at the park). We're also pet-friendly and love our furry campers! Just add the pet fee for each pet in the extras section at check out or send us an email letting us know ahead of time and we will get that added. We just ask that you do not leave your pet alone in the tents at any time unless properly crated. You are financially responsible for any damage that is done to our accommodations by your pets.

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(163)

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

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(267)

White Dog Farm camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Cleveland, GA

I have been an equestrian for 40+ years and horses are my passion. Recently purchased this beautiful , peaceful property in 2017 and have had to think outside the box to continue to care for my wonderful animals as when I moved from urban environment to rural , my income has been challenging to teach enough horseback lessons to survive and discovered Hipcamp! This made me consider sharing this wonderful place. We have a White Dog Farm fan page :Facebook, Instagram: WHITE.DOG.FARM , can show our horse activities and more photos. And coming soon our updated website

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(180)

The Ridge at Stanley Gap

11 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Blue Ridge, GA

Learn more about this land: Glamp your adventure! Pitch your tent next to a mountain stream and let it lure you to sleep! As close as you can get to all the great activities that Blue Ridge has to offer. Right in the heart of the Aska adventure area! 3 miles to downtown, 1 mile to Lake Blue Ridge and the Toccoa River. Just over a mile and you find yourself at the Deep Gap/Flat Creek trailhead for mountain biking and hiking fun. Close to the waterfall trail off of Rock Creek road. Come and feel the breeze as it blows across the meadow as you nap under the trees. It’s a place that the whole family can enjoy! Now with 2 outdoor showers(hot/cold), full bathroom and bike wash. *Please note that the bathroom/outdoor showers and bike wash are located on the outside of the barn which is also a VRBO. Please respect any VRBO renters and use only the outdoor facilities as mentioned. There are firepits at each camping platform location. Please see pictures for Barn and exterior facilities. Thanks for choosing to stay!

The best camping near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest 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.