Andrews Cove Campground
4.0946 reviews15000 Hwy 75 North, Helen, Georgia
Andrews Cove Campground
$12.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$18.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $12 per site per night. Site 9 is a double site available at $18 per night. Discounts are available for holders of America the Beautiful Interagency Senior and Access Passes, as well as Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, which grant a 50% discount on fees when pass numbers are written on the fee envelope.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Andrews Cove Campground beckons those who yearn for authentic wilderness experiences. This intimate, primitive retreat hugs the banks of babbling Andrews Creek, where the only sounds breaking the silence are birdsong and rushing water. Here, camping returns to its roots—no elaborate amenities, just you, your tent, and the timeless beauty of Georgia's mountain wilderness.
Andrews Cove Campground provides primitive camping options suitable for tents. It is not RV-friendly due to narrow roads and limited turnaround space.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the forest's edge lies one of Georgia's most enchanting transformations. The nearby town of Helen tells a remarkable story of reinvention—a once-struggling mountain community that found new life in the early 1970s by recreating itself as an authentic Alpine village. Today, this Bavarian-inspired town stands as a testament to creative vision and community spirit, offering visitors a delightful contrast to their wilderness adventures with its cobblestone alleys, timber-framed buildings, and year-round festivals.
Weather and SeasonsFrom March through late fall, Andrews Cove welcomes visitors with the gentle embrace of mountain weather. Spring arrives with occasional temperamental moments—a crisp March morning might surprise you with winter's last gasp, while afternoon showers can transform the forest into a glistening wonderland. Summer brings warm days perfect for creek exploration, though mountain storms can roll through with dramatic flair. Autumn paints the hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons, with cool nights that make campfire gatherings all the more magical.
ElevationPerched at 1,820 feet above sea level, Andrews Cove exists in that sweet spot where Southern warmth meets mountain coolness. This elevation gifts the campground with crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that can be ten degrees cooler than the valleys below—a natural air conditioning that makes summer camping particularly delightful and turns autumn into a spectacular showcase of changing leaves.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient hardwoods stand as sentinels around Andrews Cove, their canopy creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The star of this woodland theater is Andrews Creek itself—a crystal-clear mountain stream that threads through the heart of the campground, its cool waters tumbling over moss-covered rocks and creating peaceful pools perfect for quiet contemplation. The surrounding mountainside reveals itself in layers of green, from the delicate ferns at ground level to the towering oaks and hickories that have witnessed centuries pass.
Geological RegionAndrews Cove finds its home within the vast embrace of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in White County, where the ancient Appalachian Mountains showcase their Southern personality. This geological wonderland features the weathered peaks and valleys carved by millions of years of wind and water, creating the perfect backdrop for Andrews Creek's winding journey. The campground's mountainside location places visitors directly within this living museum of natural history, where every rock and ridge tells the story of our planet's dramatic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are noted as wheelchair-friendly, but no additional accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some large enough to accommodate two vehicles and two tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to proximity to the road. Several sites are located near Andrews Creek, offering some seclusion.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect campsites away from the highway to minimize traffic noise. Sites near the creek may offer the most tranquil experience.
Best CampsitesSite 1 is noted for its spaciousness, accommodating two vehicles and two tents. Site 9, the double site, is also highlighted as a preferred option.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
14 days within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 10 campsites arranged along a narrow access road. Sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from March 15, 2025, to December 15, 2025. Closed for the winter season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities include hiking, fishing, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The campground offers direct access to Andrews Cove Trail, which connects to the Appalachian Trail.
Hiking
The Andrews Cove Trail is a 2-mile steep trail connecting to the Appalachian Trail. User reviews describe it as having "a lot of stream crossing" but "no summit or view at the top."Fishing
Fishing is supported in the nearby stream, which is home to native trout. A Georgia fishing license and trout stamp are required.Wildlife viewing
Campers report observing insects like millipedes and katydids but note a surprising lack of mosquitoes.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, so proper food storage is required. Some reviewers noted potential safety concerns related to late-night activity and the presence of homeless individuals in the area.
Active alertsA boil water advisory was noted as recently as Memorial Day 2023 due to contamination concerns at the water pump. Visitors should prepare to bring their own water or boil water on-site.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are likely located in Helen, Georgia, including access to police and medical services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 to December 15 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not available, and campers are required to carry out their trash. User reviews indicate issues with littering in the area.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground features Andrews Creek running through the center, providing a picturesque and calming water feature.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby highway traffic and poor restroom conditions are frequently mentioned. Other concerns include uneven tent pads and occasional late-night disturbances.
HostNo campground host is available, and some users have noted a lack of oversight from rangers.
Campground Map
15000 Hwy 75 North, Helen, Georgia
Driving directionsFrom Helen, GA, take State Rt. 17/75 north for 6 miles to the campground sign. Turn right into the campground.
The campground is conveniently located off of Hwy 75, approximately 15 minutes north of Helen, Georgia, with clear signage for easy navigation. However, some user reviews noted that the campground is situated near a switchback, which may present noise challenges from traffic.Nearby places
Helen, GA (6 miles, ~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The alpine-themed village of Helen, Georgia, is nearby and offers varied amenities, including groceries, dining, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.1
46 reviews
Andrews Cove Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the serene natural setting and proximity to Helen, GA, but report issues with maintenance, traffic noise, and privacy. "This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques," warns one review.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful small creek," "peaceful and secluded," and "close to Helen, GA" are commonly mentioned. The creek adds a soothing ambiance.
Based on 46 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from highway traffic, poorly maintained vault toilets, and water contamination issues are frequent complaints. Littering and suspicious behavior from visitors are also noted.
Based on 46 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a water filtration system or boiled water for drinking, and visit early to secure one of the 10 first-come, first-served sites. Avoid sites near the road for a quieter experience.
Based on 46 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is reported to be quieter in the off-season but closed during the winter. Summer visits are popular for creek access and nearby recreational activities.
Based on 46 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice little campground, most sites are away from the road and several are on the creek." "Had many gatherings here. No cell service. It's nice and quiet with the occasional car or motorcycle."
Based on 46 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is noted as spacious but impacted by road traffic and headlights. Site 9 is a double site and costs $18/night.
Based on 46 reviewsAccessibility Features
The vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, but accessibility is otherwise limited.
Based on 46 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pets is available in the source materials.
Based on 46 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025