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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Stay at a public campground in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

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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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Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside

18 sites · RVs, Tents198 acres · Long Creek, SC

Chattooga Belle Farm – They Built It! By Tracy McCoy I wonder if when standing on the sprawling in upstate South Carolina, just a short hour trip from Greenville, Ed and Kitty Land heard a small still voice say, “if you build it, they will come.” While there isn't a baseball field on the property, that's about all that is lacking. Chattooga Belle Farm began as an event building set on 138 acres with a small seasonal retail store. Soon people found their way to the soon-to-be full-fledged farm and they felt it; that feeling that you've found a very special place. Peaceful, majestic and unlike any other, Chattooga Belle Farm is quite possibly the perfect place for any event and most certainly an ideal place to pledge your heart and life to another. Since the Lands opened their doors in 2010 they have come. There have been families, couples, groups, the media and fruit pickers who have all visited the farm; and they return year after year. Having been written up countless times across the southeast, US and more recently featured on The Today Show, the farm just keeps growing and getting better. With a history of growing sweet juicy apples, the soil in this part of the world has proven to be excellent for peaches, muscadines, scuppernongs, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries. The farm also grows exotic fruits like persimmons, paw paws, Asian pears, figs, and more! Today, the farm offers tours for visitors which offer incredible views and a visit to their horseshoe lake. Educational in nature, the tours leave guests more in love with the land than when they arrived. The landscape is picturesque and the mountain views are truly breathtaking in every direction. The farm hosts farm to table dinners that sell out year after year. Their U-Pick fruit opportunities evolve throughout the season with something always coming in from early summer through fall. A list of available fruit is updated often on their website as is farm tour info, upcoming events and information about cabin rentals on Horseshoe Lake. The recent addition of a distillery on the farm means the fruit is grown, fermented, distilled and bottled on the farm. The distillery is open year round Monday – Saturday. Brandies, Bourbons and Whiskeys are aged in oak barrels and aged to produce some of the finest liquors made in these mountains. The farm also boasts a challenging 18-hole Disc Golf course. The course is open to the public and the cost is $3 per game or an annual pass offering unlimited games is available for only $25. The holes are placed throughout the farm enabling play even when private events are taking place on the property. The farm store is complete with fresh produce (in season), canned jams, jellies and bottled ciders. Grass-fed, natural, antibiotic-free Black Angus beef is sold in the store. The cattle are raised on pasture which produces some of the healthiest beef you can buy. Using only natural, humane and environmentally sustainable practices, the Lands and their staff raise beef as nature intended. Bringing the best to your family has never been easier. Beef is offered in a variety of cuts boxed ahead for you when you call to order. A complete list of options is offered on their website with ordering instructions. Belle's Bistro at Chattooga Belle Farm serves salads, sandwiches, burgers and soups made with the freshest ingredients possible. The bistro is open for lunch Tuesday – Sunday from April – October. Their menu includes Certified South Carolina Grown food which makes for an outstanding menu, also which can be viewed on chattoogabellefarm.com. When it comes to weddings, Chattooga Belle Farm has it all! With all-inclusive packages that offer rental items, catering, a wedding coordinator, the minister or officiant, photographer, flowers, music, bar service and even the wedding cake. The couple can customize a package or choose from their Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum packages. Getting married has never been this easy, you bring the dress and your partner and you enjoy the day! Some of the area's loveliest weddings have happened in this remarkable place! The 2017 Eclipse Festival event planned on the farm August 21 will include music, camping, great food, distillery and farm tours, craft vendors and astrology talks and it will be unforgettable. Get your tickets today at SolarEclipseFest2017.com. Ed and Kitty and the outstanding farm team welcome you and we guarantee that if you come, you'll find that you want to stay forever! Plan your visit: Chattooga Belle Farm is located at 454 Damascus Church Road, Long Creek, South Carolina 29658. Information is abundant online.

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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!

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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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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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(189)

Candy Mountain Goat Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Murphy, NC

Our six-acre solar-powered goat farm is a quiet and peaceful slice of paradise away from the chaos and noise but close to so many places to adventure. Hurricane Helene completely missed the farm. Everything looks fantastic with trees ready for the fall colors. Feed and play with the goats, picnic along our grass-covered brook, hang out around the large fire pit, and rejuvenate while being close to the many Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountain activities. We have two custom-built RV pads with 15 and 30-amp service plus water and four grass tent locations overlooking a small brook in a forest-shaded park-like setting. Internet is provided by Starlink Business - high speed, low latency, and great for remote workers. We provide solid service throughout the entire property. Work from the top of a mountain!! IP service is available throughout the property - perfect for Van Life or van living. 200-300 down and at least 20-30 up!! Nearby are numerous hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities such as tubing, white water rafting, and boating. If you want to chill, you can check out a local swimming hole. For the next few months we have a kayak guide on-property who can take you and your group through some of the lakes and streams nearby. Contact us for availability and pricing. We have several options for our guests at the farm, including a small zipline, farm activities, loop trail, massage services (20+yr licensed), spring trail, wine tastings, weekly outdoor movies (on request), and our petting area where you can interact with very friendly goats. RV/CAR/VANLIFE We can help by recommending and using local mechanics, on-site RV repair (they come to us), solar and power troubleshooting, and good old-fashioned southern kindness. STORMS/BAD WEATHER Located on the campground is a tiny home shed that is being converted to a studio but is open and available during harsh weather.

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Primitive Sites

5 sites · Tents13 acres · Suches, GA

Heavily wooded area. Some sites are more level than others. There is no water or electric to these sites and the campground bath house is about 200 feet away. All sites have a firepit and a simple log bench. The sites that are not fairly level for tenting have grommets installed on trees to hang hammocks. All five primitive sites are isolated from the glamping tents on the property.

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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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Camping on the farm 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 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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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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Your Toccoa River Cove!

3 sites · Lodging12 acres · Mineral Bluff, GA

The Cove consists of 12 acres with a tributary stream and spring fed ponds less than a half mile from the Toccoa River. It was originally the water source for the surrounding properties prior to the city installing a water system. It is completely private and unspoiled nature, with about a mile of walking trails throughout. The Mountaintop is a 3 acre high elevation site bordering 140 acres of undisturbed woods and is also very close to the Toccoa River. Fantastic location yet very private for base camp to access the many activities in this area, or enjoy the Toccoa River. It is the only campground in Fannin County limited to only one group at a time. Each site includes 2 access points to the Toccoa River. The Gibbs Drive community river access lot has a charcoal grill, picnic table, boat launch, swimming rock and fire pit with chairs. The Toccoa River Forest community river access lot has a big boat ramp. The river is controlled flow and usually at low water from dawn to about 2 pm, ideal for fishing or swimming/wading/boulder bopping. The River release schedule is available online at the website TVA.gov. The River has swift current when the dam is opened for release, usually daily. This property is conveniently located in Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559, just 4 miles off the 4-lane highway (Highway 515/76) and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, Georgia; Blairsville, Georgia; Murphy, North Carolina, McCaysville, Georgia and Copper Hill, Tennessee. It is a paved road drive all the way to the entrance. It is located just a few miles from the center of downtown Blue Ridge with art galleries, many restaurants, brew pubs, shopping, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company, Mercier Orchard, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, and more! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad runs most of the year from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, right along the Toccoa River. The campsites are equally close to downtown McCaysville, Ga. /Copper Hill, TN. You are a short drive from Lake Blue Ridge, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Bald and many hiking trails, such as the Aska adventure area, the Appalachian Trail, the Benton McCaye Trail, and trails in the Big Frog wilderness area, Cohutta wilderness area (largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi) the Rich Mountain wilderness area and the Project Chimps hiking trails. The Ocoee River whitewater center with the Olympic kayak rapids and the world class mountain biking trails are less than 20 minutes away. Hiking, biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, boating, swimming, zip lines -- oh my!

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Winding Stair Campground

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Franklin, NC

Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway! Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town. A few features about our property: - Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways. - Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in. - Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat. - Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches. - Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests check-in, get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave. - Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available. - Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served. Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website. Learn more about this land:

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.