Sandy Bottoms Campground
4.8013 reviews4841 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Sandy Bottoms Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
The fee for camping is $15 per site per night. Holders of America the Beautiful Interagency Senior and Access Passes or Golden Age and Golden Access Passports receive a 50% discount on camping fees upon presenting pass numbers on the fee envelope.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of North Georgia's wilderness, Sandy Bottoms Campground beckons those seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. Here, where the gentle murmur of the Tallulah River mingles with the whisper of wind through ancient hardwoods, visitors discover a pristine sanctuary that feels worlds away from modern life. This lovingly maintained riverside retreat has earned a reputation among seasoned campers for its exceptional cleanliness and the kind of profound tranquility that only comes from being surrounded by untouched forest.
Sandy Bottoms Campground provides primitive camping opportunities with 13 developed sites along the Tallulah River. It offers a rustic experience with an emphasis on connecting with nature.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Sandy Bottoms in distinctly different hues, creating year-round appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring arrives with a crisp bite in the air, while autumn's chill adds drama to the changing foliage. Summer transforms the campground into a warm haven perfect for riverside relaxation, though Mother Nature occasionally provides refreshing afternoon showers that enhance the forest's earthy perfume. Many visitors have discovered that peak camping weeks often bring surprisingly pleasant, dry conditions that make for ideal tent camping under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 2,420 feet above sea level, Sandy Bottoms enjoys a naturally cooler climate that provides welcome relief from Georgia's sultry lowlands. This mountain elevation creates perfect sleeping weather on summer nights and adds an invigorating crispness to morning coffee enjoyed by the riverside.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crystalline waters of the Tallulah River serve as the campground's centerpiece, winding gracefully past campsites while offering pristine pools where rainbow trout dart through sun-dappled shallows. Towering hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead, their branches forming a natural canopy that filters sunlight into gentle, dancing patterns. This unspoiled riverside setting provides endless opportunities for quiet contemplation, whether you're casting a line for stocked trout or simply listening to the river's timeless song.
Geological RegionSandy Bottoms claims its place within the magnificent Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, where North Georgia's ancient mountains cradle pristine waterways and diverse ecosystems. This protected landscape showcases the region's characteristic hardwood forests, which have thrived here for centuries alongside the life-giving waters of the Tallulah River system.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and able to accommodate full-sized campers.
Sites PrivacyHalf of the sites have water access, offering a mix of privacy and scenic views.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHalf of the campsites offer direct water access, making them ideal for campers seeking proximity to the river.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites with direct water access as the most desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
14 days within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number not specified.
Groups
Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 13 developed sites laid out in close proximity to the Tallulah River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 15 to October 31 annually. Closed for the winter season.
Reservation PlatformsAll camping will be by reservation only starting January 1, 2025.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve availability is being eliminated starting January 1, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sandy Bottoms Campground offers limited recreational activities, centering around its proximity to the Tallulah River. Campers can engage in fishing, hiking, and enjoy the riverfront scenery.
Hiking
The area offers opportunities for day hikes, though specific trails or difficulty levels are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Tallulah River, which is stocked with rainbow trout. A Georgia fishing license and trout stamp are required.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies stated.
- Quiet hours are Between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad hazards such as potholes and muddy conditions during wet weather are noted. Vault toilets may have maintenance issues, including shortages of toilet paper.
Active alertsClosed for winter season annually.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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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
Clayton, GA hosts the nearest emergency services including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof garbage facilities are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Tallulah River, providing fishing and scenic opportunities.
Common complaintsVault toilets have been described as dirty and occasionally out of toilet paper according to user reviews.
HostNo campground hosts mentioned in provided information.
Campground Map
4841 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Driving directionsTake U.S. 76 west from Clayton for 8 miles; turn right (north) on Persimmon Road for 4.2 miles; turn left (northwest) on Forest Service Road 70 for 4.6 miles to arrive at Sandy Bottoms Campground.
Tallulah River Rd. transitions into a gravel, single-lane road with some turnouts. The road has minimal potholes and washboards, and the entrance into the campground requires a switchback turn that may be tight for larger RVs. Depending on RV size, backing up might be necessary.Nearby places
Clayton, GA (approximately 6.7 miles, 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Clayton, GA, which is approximately 6.7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
13 reviews
Sandy Bottoms Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting its scenic beauty, peaceful ambiance, and rustic charm. Negative feedback mainly pertains to the condition of the vault toilets and the road leading to the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground’s serene setting, spacious sites, proximity to the Tallulah River, and opportunities for family fun. One user noted, 'Been camping here for over 40 years and it's just as...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the poor condition of the vault toilets, lack of toilet paper, and the challenging road leading to the campground. 'Road quality in was probably a 4 ...so not too bad, but...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure a good site, being courteous on narrow roads, and bringing toilet paper due to reported shortages. Also, 'Remember to take only pictures and leave only...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground’s use is seasonal, open from March 15 to October 31. Spring and fall are popular for experiencing North Georgia's colors and weather. Winter closures limit access during colder months.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Best camping place there is! EVER!' 'Quiet & peaceful as long as parents have their kids and dogs under control.' 'I’ve been coming here over 50 years and now my kids and grandkids enjoy this little...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as spacious, with half offering water access. Each site has a fire pit with grate and picnic table. Specific site numbers or preferences are not detailed.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned or reviewed.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025