10 Georgia Primitive Campsites (not in a State Park)

Want to try something different? How about primitive camping? What does that mean? Well for starters it means you are not in a KOA, State, or Federal park. Usually, this requires hiking in and set up camp in a remote location along a trail. But did you know there are small USDA campsites, that are close to parking, all around Georgia? These sites are typically larger, cheaper, quieter, and more secluded which is awesome! The downside, they are on a first-come-first-serve basis. So you could drive up to see all of the campsites taken. But with some flexibility and the willingness to check out several sites in the area you can score an incredible spot. Most of these campsites are equipped with standard amenities: a tent pad, picnic table, lantern pole, and grill.

WildCat Creek

The payoff of landing a night in this environment is pure delight. These campsites are buried deep in the North Georgia Mountains along the headwaters of Wildcat Creek. The creek runs directly adjacent to the campsites and provides for a serene setting.

Jack River Falls

This quaint, secluded campground with seven campsites is situated on the bank of the south fork of the Jacks River.

Cooper Creek

15 camping sites are within walking distance of the creek. The sites are closer together and less secluded, but still has less traffic than standard park’s.

Three Forks 

This is about as primitive as it gets in a campground. These few sites offer no amenities outside of a natural stone campfire ring. Long Creek Falls is nearby. It is quite lovely here.

West Fork

Small and intimate, these five walk-in campsites are in a rustic area along the west fork of the Chattooga River. There also is a restroom at this site.

Tallulah River

17 large gravel campsites on the banks of the Tallulah River, this campground is a favorite. Positioned on relatively level and wooded forest land, these fill up quickly on weekends.

Deep Hole

This eight site campground and recreation area offer camping, canoeing and fishing. This is a great place for year round water-based recreation activities. There is no water available in the campground, bring some!

DeSoto Falls Recreational Area

24 campsites offer a scenic spot with easy access for a weekend of camping. It fills up fast so get there early! There are two waterfalls which can be easily viewed along the DeSoto Falls trails. Trout fishing is popular along Frogtown Creek which flows adjacent to the campground.

Lake Sinclair Recreational Area

The most commercialized of all these, it really isn’t primitive but I figured I would add one “almost mainstream” site. Consisting of 44 campsites in four loops. Loop B has ten tent sites, and loop D has 18 tent sites. Hot showers, two boat docks, swimming beach, boat ramp, playground.

Andrews Cove Campground

Ten camping sites along a fresh mountain stream and a peaceful atmosphere that is only 15 minutes from the famous alpine village of Helen, Georgia. This site also has restrooms!

Now if you want to get crazy, you can try these long hikes that permit camping trailside.

http://www.georgiatrails.com/gt/Hikes_that_permit_camping

So you ready to be impulsive and camp in a less accessible area? Do it and let me know how it goes!

Keep the Lust for Wandering Y’all!

Fran