Hickey Gap Campground
4.3215 reviewsHickey Gap Campground, near Mill Creek, Crandall, GA
Hickey Gap Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Camping at Hickey Gap is free.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Hickey Gap Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Mill Creek sets the soundtrack for your wilderness retreat. This hidden gem features five thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with everything you need for a perfect night under the stars: sturdy tent pads, welcoming fire rings for evening storytelling, and picnic tables for memorable outdoor meals. Best of all, this pristine slice of nature comes without a price tag – camping here is completely free, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who seek authentic outdoor experiences.
Hickey Gap Campground is designed for primitive camping, tent camping, and small RVs. It is not suitable for large groups due to the limited number of sites and size restrictions.
Historical SignificanceThis peaceful corner of the forest carries the legacy of the Hickey family, early settlers whose connection to this land runs deep. Their name lives on in these gap lands, a testament to the generations who have found solace and sustenance along Mill Creek's banks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the changing moods of the forest throughout the year at this all-season destination. From crisp winter mornings that transform your breath into misty clouds to balmy summer evenings perfect for creek-side relaxation, Hickey Gap welcomes adventurers year-round. Seasoned campers particularly treasure week 22, when Mother Nature seems to align all the elements just right – crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above while temperatures hover in that sweet spot between refreshing and comfortable, creating what many consider the ultimate camping conditions.
ElevationInformation not available
Natural Features and SceneryMill Creek serves as the campground's centerpiece, its pristine waters home to native trout and bordered by smooth stones perfect for afternoon contemplation. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering trees that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. As one visitor, Zach Roberts, beautifully captured: 'A creek follows the road all the way up to the campsite and is nice to sit next to and relax.' This constant companion of flowing water provides both a soothing ambiance and opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply losing yourself in nature's rhythms.
Geological RegionSituated within the diverse ecosystem of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Hickey Gap rests in a landscape shaped by ancient geological forces. The campground's position along Mill Creek places it within a natural corridor where water has carved its patient path through the Southern Appalachian foothills, creating the perfect blend of accessible wilderness and pristine trout habitat that defines this special corner of Georgia's protected lands.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in either official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground contains five campsites, as confirmed by official sources and user reviews: "There are only about 5 sites, so keep that in mind."
Sites PrivacySites are reasonably close together, as noted by user reviews: "Campsites are first come, first serve and reasonably close together." Privacy may be limited.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure a site, especially during peak seasons. Description of Site 11 offers a peaceful creek-side experience.
Best CampsitesSite 11 is highly rated for its proximity to the creek and peaceful setting. Review by Genmillz: 'Site 11 is busy but it's the best.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limited to 2 vehicles per campsite
- guest limits unspecified
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutFive campsites equipped with tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables. The sites are reasonably close together per user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are required; sites are first come, first serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are first come, first served. User review by Joshua Casey: 'We stayed here 12/25/22 and were the only people in the site. Came back 4/20/23 and it was completely full.'
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities available at Hickey Gap Campground primarily include fishing, hiking, and mountain biking, as confirmed by official sources. Users also describe enjoying serene moments by the creek and wildlife observation.
Hiking
Day hiking trails are available within the vicinity of the campground. No specific details about trail lengths or difficulty are provided.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Mill Creek trout stream adjacent to the campground. One user mentioned, "A creek follows the road all the way up to the campsite and is nice to sit next to and relax."Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible from the campground, as confirmed by official sources.Winter Activities
Camping during the winter months is possible due to the campground being open year-round. One user states: "In the off season when Conasauga is closed during winter months, Hickey Gap is not a bad choice."Water Sports
No mentions of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are found in the official sources or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site includes a fire ring.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention snakes during spring and summer, with specific reference to bright orange corn snakes swimming in the creek. Review by Ray Chill: 'Watch out for the bright orange corn snakes who will happily swim up the creek.'
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.1 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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash services are not provided. Campers are expected to follow a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, as emphasized by user reviews: "There is quite a bit of trash left by people. There is no trash service there."
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Mill Creek trout stream, with some campsites located right next to the creek.
Common complaintsReviews highlight safety concerns due to lack of monitoring and disruptive visitors. Barbara Mullins: 'I did not feel safe. Creepy dude walking around in my camp uninvited.' Trash issues are also noted.
HostNull
Campground Map
Hickey Gap Campground, near Mill Creek, Crandall, GA
Driving directionsFrom Chatsworth, GA: travel north on highway 411 for 6 miles, then turn right on Grassy Street (4 lane will narrow down to 2 lanes). Travel to 'T' intersection and turn right, go 100 ft. and then turn left onto Mill Creek Rd. (FS 630). Continue straight on FS 630 for approx. 6.5 miles, then turn right to enter campground at portal sign.
The access road is approximately 6.5 miles of gravel road along FS 630. Some user reviews warn about potholes and blind curves, suggesting a travel time of 20-25 minutes if driving at a safe speed. Review by Zach Roberts: 'Any car can handle it.'Nearby places
Chatsworth, GA (approx. 6 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.3
15 reviews
Hickey Gap Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Hickey Gap Campground are mixed, highlighting its natural beauty and free access but also raising concerns about safety and cleanliness. Positive experiences include serene camping by the creek and a peaceful atmosphere, while negative aspects focus on unmonitored activities and issues with the pit toilet.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise its serene and beautiful setting, proximity to Mill Creek, and the fact that camping is free: "Absolutely beautiful. A creek follows the road all the way up to the campsite...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns about safety and cleanliness dominate negative feedback. One user reported feeling unsafe due to unmonitored visitors: "I did not feel safe. I had a creepy dude walking around in my camp...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan your visit early to secure one of the limited five sites: "Not very many spots so show up early and leave early so other folks can enjoy it too." Bring your own firewood as the area has been...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round, but winter months offer solitude as it is less crowded: "We stayed here 12/25/22 and was the only people in the site." Conversely, spring and summer can be busier...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"It's incredible that it's free." "Camping is free; you can stay 14 consecutive nights." "Bathrooms and trash available with fire pits and benches." "Please don't litter, this place is beautiful and...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 has been noted as a busy yet peaceful site near the creek: "Sit 11 is. Busy but it's the best. Right on the creek! So peaceful primitive camping."
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No comments on pet policies or experiences with pets were found in user reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025