The best camping in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA

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97% (62)

Camper favorites near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

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Stay at a public campground in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

99%
(986)
32mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Robbinsville, NC
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. Keep pets on a leash, especially if they like to roam or have any aggressive behavior. 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. Views that can bring a tear to a glass eye and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Hundreds of Hiking trails in the area, many just a short distance from the property. Please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but it’s also like driving through an enchanted forest. The secluded location, peaceful and breathtaking views make this place a must-see adventure.
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$35
 / night

The Ridge at Stanley Gap

96%
(230)
15mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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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$25
 / night

Blue Ridge Basecamp

99%
(159)
38mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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 6 fully stocked campers and 4 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 March 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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$29
 / night

Tusquittee Hideaway

100%
(1)
26mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hayesville, NC
Listen to the sound of rushing Tusquittee Creek below from this private, mountaintop 11.7-acre tract located in stunning Tusquittee Valley, near downtown Hayesville and just 10 minutes from Lake Chatuge. Enjoy gorgeous 360-degree mountain and valley views from your secluded perch. A gated entrance off a county-paved road leads you 0.3 miles up a newly graveled drive to a mountaintop campsite that’s perfectly level and freshly sown with grass. A 200-amp electrical panel with 50/30-amp RV receptacles and a 120V outlet is in place, along with a potable water tank. If you’re pulling a trailer or camper, 4WD is required — the road has been newly graded and graveled but is steep in certain sections. Nearby attractions include historic downtown Hayesville, Lake Chatuge, Lake Nantahala, the 22-mile Chunky Gal Trail, Tusquittee Mountain Range, Fires Creek Recreation Area, Standing Indian Mountain, and the Upper Nantahala River.
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$75
 / night

Lula Disc House

92%
(79)
34mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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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$29
 / night

Deer Valley RV Park

96%
(84)
43mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Chatsworth, GA
Deer Valley RV Park - Chatsworth, Georgia Deer Valley RV Park is a touch of country in the city. Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Deer Valley RV Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Located in the heart of Chatsworth, Georgia, this park provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want the best of both worlds. Deer Valley is on county land tucked away but with access to local creature comforts to make your stay effortlessly relaxing! We are committed to easy in and easy out service. Deer Valley RV Park features spacious, well-maintained sites with full hookups, accommodating rigs of all sizes that rival larger RV camp spots. Guests can enjoy modern amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s proximity to hiking trails, waterfalls, and nearby attractions such as Fort Mountain State Park and the Cohutta Wilderness. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or an extended vacation, Deer Valley RV Park offers a welcoming atmosphere and a peaceful environment to relax and reconnect with nature.
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$45
 / night

Mountain Creek Rest

99%
(261)
36mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Robbinsville, NC
Mountain Creek Rest is a rural, creek side get-a-way in the mountains with 2 beautiful, huge, tent sites and a mini-cabin, also on a large site! It does not have hook ups, power, or running water. You get there on a gravel road with 2wd as long as your car has 5.5" of clearance. (google your car) 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 also a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind site! It has a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin is provided for you instead of using your tent!!! Leave your tent and the 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 5.5" 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!
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$44
 / night

Coweeta Creek Campground

100%
(140)
41mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Otto, NC
Coweeta Creek Campground has water, electric, and septic on Sites 1, 2, and 3 as well as a firepit and picnic table. The bathhouse allows for hot showers and flushing toilets. Site 4 is for tents or small pop-ups. If you are interested in renting an RV and having it set up for you when you arrive, please check out Windy Sky Rentals 706-426-3062. https://windyskyrvrentals.com/. Each site is gravel, shaded, and sits along the peaceful Coweeta Creek. The campground property has a large field for games (kickball, soccer, volleyball), as well as a flat 1/4 mile loop which you can view our mini homestead farm. We have chickens, bees, vegetable gardens, and a small fruit orchard. We recently added a 1/2 mile trail, called Turkey Foot Trail, through the wooded area. The campground is somewhat secluded (some neighbors across the creek), but only 15 minutes from Franklin, NC and 15 minutes from Clayton, GA with plenty of shopping/restaurants. Once you are at the campground you won't want to leave the beauty of the creek! Strong Wifi is available at all sites. Network password will be provided before arrival. Property History: Coweeta Creek Campground WAS a 20 site, thriving, family/church oriented campground from the 1970's that was later sold, then neglected. My family purchased in 2022 and opened a few camping sites for a more family friendly, intimate setting. *Please send us a message if you are interested in renting out the entire property for family reunions, birthdays, or other events. There is potential for 10 sites with water/electricity along the creek, but we don't advertise it!
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$45
 / night

The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping

99%
(46)
48mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Bryson City, NC
Fall in love with our secluded Off-Grid Cabin located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wake up to the sounds of a babbling creek and beautiful mountain views, hike the Road to Nowhere, kayak the Little Tennesee River, cook hot dogs over an open fire, and then open the glass panel garage door and fall asleep under the most beautiful sky you will ever see. Rowdy Bear Highlights: • 12ft glass panel door that opens the cabin to nature • Queen Tempurpedic bed • Rain Captured Shower • Fire Pit The Space: The Rowdy Bear is an Off-Grid Cabin that is situated in the Great Smoky Mountains with easy access to both Bryson City and Franklin. The cabin itself was built using rough sawn wood acquired from a local sawmill. Many of the items used in the cabin came from local shops or antique stores. There is a 2000-watt Solar Generator in the cabin that can be used for lights, charging cell phones, and running the pump for the shower. The Solar Panels are enough to charge the Generator to 100% each day. Rainwater is used for showers. The gutter system on the cabin is used to catch rainwater. The downspout runs into a "First Flush Diverter", which allows any dust, dirt, or anything else that might land on the roof between the rainstorms to be diverted away from the water storage tank. The clean rainwater then fills the water storage tank. Be aware that Rainwater is fine for showers, but is not meant for drinking. Propane is connected to a space heater and the shower. The space heater is 17,000 BTUs, which is plenty for colder nights. The shower has an at-source water heater and can heat the water up to 120 degrees, which is more than enough for a hot shower. A porta potty is provided for bathroom purposes and is cleaned and restocked every Thursday. Pets are allowed! The following items are provided: 1. Linens 2. Towels 3. Coffee, Coffee Pot, and Coffee Cups 4. Body Wash 5. Shampoo 6. Board Games 7. Lanterns 8. Two Person Table and Chairs 9. Two Rocking Chairs 10. four Adirondack Chairs for the Firepit 11. Firepit 12. Outdoor table for food and drinks 13. Propane Torch for lighting fires Guest access The Rowdy Bear is situated on 2.5 acres of land. There is a large section cleared off where the cabin is located. There is plenty of room for the fire pit, vehicles, animals, and any outdoor games you might want to bring (cornhole). Both Bryson City and Franklin are fairly close to the cabin. Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away, while Franklin is approximately 30 minutes away. Both towns offer great little downtown areas that have shopping and restaurants. Don't be afraid to try the food trucks, they have some of the best food. Bryson City has many trails for hiking such as the Road to nowhere, Noland Divide Trail, Three Waterfalls Loop (FYI: There are three waterfalls on this trail), and Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. The fishing in Bryson City is also great and the guided trips are very reasonably priced. I would suggest going in the morning and doing a float trip. Franklin is bigger and a little more spread out than Bryson city, but there are a lot of neat little stores and restaurants. I personally like going to the Currahee Brewing Company. Currahee is right on the river and is set up to host live bands and it gets pretty lively in the late afternoons and evenings on the weekends. Other things to note One of the things you would want to bring is a 1 lb propane bottle for the Torch that is provided. Using the torch to start a fire is much easier than kindling. The solar generator has enough power to run the small coffee pot if you don't want to use the percolator. The generator also has enough power to run hair dryers. The main thing you want to keep in mind is anything that uses a heating element will drain the battery quickly. Lanterns are provided If needed. Overall, you should be good to go, but it is something to keep in mind.
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$135
 / night

Castleberry Bridge

100%
(189)
21mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 15 sites · Tents · Dawsonville, GA
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 851 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 Gini or George Ferris 404-431-2564 or 727-204-3932. There's so much fun waiting for you to explore! 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.
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$39
 / night

Your Toccoa River Cove!

97%
(297)
18mi from Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · 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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$35
 / night

The 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

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. 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.
  2. Reservable campsites can be booked via the Recreation.gov website.
  3. 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.
97%
62 ratings · 22 reviews

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