Tate Branch Campground
4.6921 reviews4049 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Tate Branch 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
Camping fees are $15 per site per night. Interagency passes such as Senior and Access Passes offer a 50% discount on camping fees, but camping is not free. Pass holders must write their pass number on the fee envelope to receive the discount.
About this campground
Nestled where the crystalline waters of the Tallulah River meet the babbling Tate Branch, this hidden gem in the North Georgia mountains offers 17 secluded sites for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Far from the crowds and chaos of modern life, Tate Branch Campground beckons adventurers with its promise of pristine fishing waters, soul-stirring hiking trails, and nights spent under a canopy of stars. Four specially designated walk-in tent sites reward intrepid campers with an even deeper connection to nature, accessible only by foot and perfect for those who measure luxury in solitude rather than amenities.
Tate Branch Campground offers traditional camping setups with 17 developed sites, including 4 walk-in tent sites. The campground is tailored for tent camping and primitive experiences.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded human history of this specific site may be modest, the land itself tells ancient stories through its weathered rocks and towering pines, inviting visitors to create their own legacy of outdoor memories.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of mountain weather at Tate Branch, where each season paints the landscape in distinctive hues. Winter brings crisp, invigorating cold that transforms breath into mist and morning dew into frost diamonds. Spring and early fall offer the sweet spot for camping, with comfortable temperatures that make both daytime adventures and evening campfires equally enjoyable. The clearest skies and driest conditions create perfect windows for stargazing, though mountain rains do sweep through regularly, adding their own rhythm to the forest symphony.
ElevationPerched at 2,360 feet above sea level, Tate Branch Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides blessed relief from summer's swelter. This mountain elevation creates a microclimate where cool breezes whisper through the pines even on the warmest days, making it an ideal retreat when the lowlands simmer.
Natural Features and SceneryCathedral-like stands of towering pines create a living sanctuary around each campsite, their evergreen spires reaching skyward while filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns. The constant music of the Tallulah River provides nature's soundtrack, its clear mountain waters dancing over ancient stones just steps from your tent. This convergence of forest and river creates an ecosystem alive with possibility—from morning mist rising off the water to evening light painting the mountainsides in gold.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Appalachian landscape of North Georgia's mountains, Tate Branch Campground occupies a special confluence where geological forces have carved a perfect pocket for outdoor recreation. The meeting point of the Tallulah River and Tate Branch has created a unique topography of gentle slopes and river valleys, all sheltered beneath the protective embrace of pine-covered ridges that have stood sentinel for countless generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available, and the gravel road may pose accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with gravel parking aprons.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the campground, with some sites being riverside and secluded, while others are closer to the main road. User feedback includes: "Good privacy, clean campground."
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure riverside campsites, as they are popular and fill quickly.
Best CampsitesSeveral campsites are located directly along the river, offering scenic views and the sound of rushing water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
The maximum stay is 14 days within any 30-day period. After reaching the limit, campers must leave the campground and surrounding National Forest land for 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No designated group camping site is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 17 standard sites and 4 walk-in tent sites. There is a gravel layout for roads and parking aprons.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from March 15th to October 31st each year. Closed for the winter season.
Reservation PlatformsStarting January 1, 2025, all camping will be by reservation only. No first-come, first-served options.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come, first-served options available starting January 1, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Tate Branch Campground focus on outdoor recreation, primarily fishing and enjoying the riverside scenery. Hiking opportunities are nearby but not within the campground itself.
Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity, with stocked rainbow trout available in the Tallulah River. A Georgia fishing license and trout stamp are required.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months, eliminating winter recreational opportunities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but no specific rules or restrictions are provided.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsThe road to the campground is gravel and single-lane, with minimal potholes and washboards that could cause damage to low-clearance vehicles. Drive slowly to avoid scraping.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15th to October 31st
Trash and recyclingNo information on trash and recycling facilities is provided. User reviews do not mention this aspect.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near the Tallulah River and Tate Branch, offering access to river camping and trout fishing.
Common complaintsChemical toilets are often reported as dirty or emitting unpleasant odors. Some reviews also mention that the campground can get crowded during peak times.
HostNull
Campground Map
4049 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Driving directionsTake U.S. Rt. 76 west from Clayton for 6.7 miles to the Tallulah River Campgrounds sign at Persimmon Rd. Turn right onto Persimmon Rd. and go 4.2 miles to the campground sign at Tallulah River Rd. Turn left onto Tallulah River Rd. and go 4.1 miles to the campground. Note: Tallulah River Rd. becomes a gravel, single-lane road with turnouts. There are minimal potholes and washboards.
The road to the campground includes a gravel, single-lane section with turnouts and minimal potholes. It is suitable for cars but may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Drive slowly as the road conditions could cause scraping.Nearby places
Clayton, GA (approximately 10 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.7
21 reviews
Tate Branch Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the scenic beauty and rustic atmosphere of Tate Branch Campground, but consistently note issues with bathroom cleanliness and limited amenities. The campground's proximity to the Tallulah River and fishing opportunities are highlighted as major draws.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects of the campground include its scenic riverside location, peaceful environment, and affordable camping at $15/night. Quotes from users include: "We camped along the river, falling...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on the poor condition of restroom facilities, lack of cell service, and winter closure. One user stated: "The bathroom with a chemical toilet was overflowing with the 3 P's....
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User recommendations include arriving early to secure riverside campsites, bringing walkie-talkies for group communication due to lack of cell service, and exploring nearby hiking trails such as...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate heavy traffic during peak camping season due to popularity, while winter closure makes planning essential for offseason visits. Summer reviews highlight escape from heat due to cool...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This has become my all time favorite place to camp," "Nice quiet small campground and the host Mike was very accommodating," "Love camping at these sites. Beautiful getaway from the heat of summer,"...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Riverside sites are especially favored, with roughly half the sites lining the river, though they require early arrival for availability.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility are provided.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences are provided.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025