Frank Gross Campground
5126 Rock Creek Rd.
Frank Gross Campground
$4.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The standard fee is $8 per night, year-round. Discounts apply for Access Pass holders, lowering the fee to $4 per night.
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$8.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider706-745-6928
About this campground
Escape to Frank Gross Campground, where eight secluded campsites await along the melodic waters of Rock Creek in North Georgia's pristine mountains. This intimate, primitive retreat strips away modern distractions—no hookups, no crowds, just you and nature's raw beauty. Cast your line into crystal-clear waters teeming with native trout, explore winding forest trails, or simply lose yourself in the symphony of rushing water and rustling leaves. When civilization feels too close, Frank Gross offers the perfect antidote: pure, unadulterated wilderness just waiting to restore your soul.
Frank Gross Campground offers a primitive camping experience with eight campsites available. The sites support tent camping and small RVs, but larger RVs may face challenges due to site size and overhanging limbs. Sites 2 and 5 are directly next to Rock Creek, which is a notable feature.
Historical SignificanceYour wilderness escape sits within reach of Blue Ridge, Georgia—a mountain town where Appalachian heritage meets modern mountain culture. After days spent in nature's embrace, venture into town to discover local craft breweries pouring mountain-inspired ales, galleries showcasing regional artisans, or step back in time aboard vintage trains chugging through scenic valleys. Don't miss Mercier Orchards, where the same family has been growing crisp mountain apples since 1943, offering a taste of Georgia's agricultural heritage alongside fresh cider and homemade fried pies.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Frank Gross Campground in ever-changing beauty throughout the year. Spring arrives gently with wildflowers dotting the forest floor and perfect hiking temperatures. Summer brings warm days ideal for creek-side relaxation and cool mountain evenings around the campfire. But it's October that steals the show—when North Georgia's mountains explode in a breathtaking kaleidoscope of crimson, gold, and amber. Even winter has its charm, with crisp air and peaceful solitude as snow occasionally dusts the higher peaks.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unrecorded, Frank Gross Campground's mountain setting provides the refreshing climate and scenic vistas characteristic of North Georgia's highland region.
Natural Features and SceneryThe journey to Frank Gross begins with a spectacular 5-mile drive along Rock Creek Road, where each bend reveals postcard-worthy mountain vistas. Tucked within the Ed Jenkins National Recreation Area of the Chattahoochee National Forest, the campground cradles Rock Creek's banks like a well-kept secret. Morning mist rises from the water while ancient hardwoods stretch overhead, their canopy sheltering wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and the occasional black bear. This is nature's theater at its finest—where babbling creek songs provide the soundtrack and seasonal changes paint the backdrop in nature's most vibrant hues.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the Ed Jenkins National Recreation Area within the vast Chattahoochee National Forest, Frank Gross Campground showcases North Georgia's distinctive mountain landscape. Ancient ridges and valleys carved by time create a dramatic backdrop, while Rock Creek meanders through, its waters having shaped smooth stones and quiet pools over countless centuries. This temperate mountain ecosystem transforms with each season—from spring's delicate greens to autumn's fiery display—offering visitors a front-row seat to the Southern Appalachians' timeless geological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features have been mentioned in the provided information.
Sites SizeThe campsites are small, and large RVs (over 30 ft) may face challenges due to overhanging limbs and limited depth.
Sites PrivacySites are described as neatly arranged for privacy, though some reviews note proximity to the road, which can make the camping experience dusty. Sites 2 and 5 are directly next to Rock Creek, offering scenic views and enhanced privacy.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Campgrounds #6 and #7 technically don’t say 'creekside,' but they are right on the river and are just as great as any of the other sites. #6 is my favorite." "We loved Site 5 by the river." "When we go back, we are going to get Site 6 because it has a better layout to see the creek."
Best CampsitesSites 5 and 6 are highly recommended for their proximity to Rock Creek. User reviews highlight Site 6 as the best for fishing and Site 5 for scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limits stated in authoritative sources. User reviews indicate campsites are small and accommodating for single families.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in a small loop with eight sites, offering privacy and proximity to Rock Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with peak season pricing ($8/night) from April 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable but may fill up quickly during weekends and peak seasons. Walk-up availability is limited and not guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee, and refunds are issued minus the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Late cancellations start from midnight the day before the scheduled arrival.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Frank Gross Campground provides year-round recreational opportunities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground's proximity to natural features like Rock Creek and nearby hiking trails makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is a major draw, with Rock Creek featuring both stocked and wild trout. "Caught almost a dozen small wild rainbows on a dry fly right by the campsite." The Benton MacKaye trail and Appalachian Trail are a short drive away, offering additional hiking opportunities.
Hiking
The nearby Benton MacKaye Trail and Appalachian Trail provide hiking opportunities within a 4-mile range. The Benton MacKaye Trail features a 260-foot suspension bridge crossing the Toccoa River. "If you enjoy hiking, The Benton MacKaye trail is north of Frank Gross." Other trails like Mill Creek and Deep Hole are also accessible within a short drive.Fishing
Fishing is highly praised at Frank Gross Campground, particularly for trout. Rock Creek offers stocked and wild trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. "Trout fishing is popular here in North Georgia so having a campsite such as Frank Gross adjacent to the Rock Creek is an amazing opportunity for avid fisherman."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife watching is a highlight, with visitors commonly seeing deer, turkey, bears, and small furbearers. "North Georgia is a playground for wildlife watchers. We have an abundance of Deer, Turkey, Bear, and small Furbearers."Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery includes an Environmental Education Center and a visitor kiosk, providing educational opportunities about local ecosystems.Winter Activities
Winter activities have not been specifically mentioned, but the campground is noted to remain open year-round.Water Sports
Kayaking opportunities may exist at nearby locations, such as Rock Creek Lake, but are not specified within the campground itself.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in grills. "Do not leave fires unattended; they must be extinguished before check-out."
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters include bears, turkeys, and deer. "Be bear-aware! Keep all food in containers or locked inside a vehicle as much as possible. This rule is strictly enforced!" The road leading in is gravel and can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Active alerts"There is no cell phone coverage in this recreation area." Reviews note issues such as trash accumulation and locals using restroom facilities late at night.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services include hospitals in Blue Ridge, GA (30 minutes away), and the nearest ranger station also located in Blue Ridge. Police services can be accessed in nearby cities such as Dahlonega and Blairsville.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but campers are encouraged to take their trash with them upon checkout. "ALTHOUGH TRASH RECEPTICLES ARE AVAILABLE, WE ASK THAT YOU TAKE AS MUCH TRASH WITH YOU AS YOU CHECK-OUT."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Rock Creek, ideal for trout fishing. "There is a lake just past the campground that is beautiful and perfect for kayaking."
Common complaints"Nice outdoor rec area but the road going in is in bad shape." "There was at least 30 bags of trash piled up beside the trash receptacles when we pulled in on Sunday." "Locals come up to use the restrooms at late hours of the night, disturbing campers."
Campground Map
5126 Rock Creek Rd.
Driving directionsFrom Blue Ridge, GA - Take US 515 north for 4 miles to GA Hwy. 60; turn right and go 2 miles to Morganton. In Morganton, turn right on GA 60 south for 14.5 miles. Turn right on Rock Creek Rd. (Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery Road) for 5.2 miles to campground.
From Dahlonega, GA - Take GA Hwy. 60 north for 26 miles; turn left on Forest Service Road 69 for 5.2 miles to campground.
From Blairsville, GA - Take Skeenah Gap Rd and travel 7.8 miles South. Turn left onto HWY 60-South and travel 3.4 miles. Rock Creek Rd will be on your right. Travel 5.2 miles to the Campground.
The road leading to the campground has mixed reviews. "Once you turn down Rock Creek Road, the 5-mile drive to Frank Gross Campground is breathtaking. Rock Creek is visible for most of the drive, giving fishermen an opportunity to locate good spots to fish." Some reviews note challenges: "Nice outdoor rec area but the road going in is in bad shape." It is a gravel road suitable for regular vehicles but not larger RVs due to narrow passages and overhanging limbs.Nearby places
Blue Ridge, GA (30 minutes), Dahlonega, GA (approximately 45 minutes), Blairsville, GA (approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The Cooper Creek Store is within 15 minutes of the campground and offers camping supplies, snacks, and hot food during breakfast and lunch hours. Groceries, fuel, and other essentials can be found in Blue Ridge, GA, approximately 30 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
25 reviews

Frank Gross Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Frank Gross Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, excellent fishing opportunities, and peaceful setting, but some users report maintenance issues such as accumulated trash and rough roads. "Awesome spot, very well kept and lots of trout."
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
- Excellent trout fishing opportunities
- Clean and well-maintained vault toilets
- Scenic views of Rock Creek and surrounding nature
- Quiet and relaxing atmosphere
- Affordable pricing at $8 per...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Accumulated trash near trash receptacles
- Dusty conditions due to road proximity
- Lack of potable water and other amenities
- Maintenance issues with overhanging limbs
Based on 25 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Arrive early, as the campground fills up quickly
- Bring a bow saw or axe to prepare firewood
- Use a small RV (under 30 ft) or a tent due to site size limitations
- Plan for no cell phone service...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are particularly praised for their mild weather and scenic beauty. "During the months of October, North Georgia's trees put on a vibrant show." Summer offers lush greenery, while...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Caught almost a dozen small wild rainbows on a dry fly right by the campsite."
2. "The restroom was surprisingly clean and pretty much scent free with there being a pit toilet."
3. "Rock Creek...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2: "Very relaxing, clean bathrooms, timely garbage pick up."
Site 5: "We loved site 5 by the river."
Site 6: "Caught almost a dozen small wild rainbows on a dry fly right by the campsite."
Site...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times: "PETS MUST BE ON A LEASH AT ALL TIMES."
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025