Tallulah Gorge State Park
00 review338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr, TALLULAH FALLS, Georgia, 30573, United States
Tallulah Gorge State Park
$3.75 - $5.00 / 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
ParkPass fees are $5 per day for 1-12 passenger vehicles or $50 annually. Discounts apply for Georgia active-duty military/veterans ($3.75 daily/$37.50 annually). ParkPass fees are not included in campsite reservations.
About this campground
Carved deep into Georgia's ancient landscape, Tallulah Gorge State Park reveals a breathtaking two-mile chasm plunging nearly 1,000 feet into the earth. Adventure seekers traverse challenging trails and cross the swaying suspension bridge while photographers capture the drama from scenic overlooks. Whether you're settling into a cozy RV site, pitching your tent under the stars, or hiking to remote backcountry shelters, the park offers the perfect basecamp for exploration. After a day of adventure, cool off at the sandy beach along the park's pristine 63-acre lake.
Tallulah Gorge State Park offers camping accommodations ranging from tent and RV sites to backcountry shelters and pioneer campsites.
Historical SignificanceLong before modern adventurers discovered its beauty, Tallulah Gorge drew Victorian-era tourists to elegant resort hotels perched along its rim. The gorge gained worldwide fame in 1970 when daredevil Karl Wallenda walked a tightrope stretched across the yawning chasm, captivating thousands of spectators. Today, the park preserves not only these human stories but also serves as a crucial sanctuary for rare plants and animals, protecting an ecological treasure that has evolved over millions of years.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Tallulah Gorge in different colors and moods. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn sets the canyon ablaze with spectacular foliage displays. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for swimming and early morning hikes. Winter transforms the gorge into a misty, mysterious landscape with occasional icy waterfalls, though rain gear is essential. Most visitors find spring and fall offer the perfect balance of comfortable weather and stunning natural beauty.
ElevationWhile the rim trails offer gentle walks through the forest, the true magnitude of Tallulah Gorge reveals itself when you peer over the edge into the nearly 1,000-foot abyss below. This dramatic elevation change creates multiple climate zones within the park, from sunny ridgetops to cool, moist canyon depths where rare species thrive in the shadows.
Natural Features and SceneryStanding at the rim of what many call the most spectacular canyon in the eastern United States, visitors witness nature's raw power. Six thundering waterfalls cascade through the gorge, their mist nurturing hidden gardens of persistent trillium and rare monkey-face orchids clinging to rocky ledges. The rugged terrain shelters elusive green salamanders in cool crevices, while hawks soar on thermals rising from the sun-warmed rocks. Every overlook reveals a new perspective on this geological masterpiece.
Geological RegionTallulah Gorge stands as a testament to the incredible forces that shaped Georgia's Piedmont region. This dramatic two-mile gash in the earth tells a story written in stone over millions of years, where ancient rivers carved through resistant quartzite rock to create a 1,000-foot-deep canyon. The result is not just a geological wonder, but an ecological island where rare species find refuge in microclimates created by the gorge's unique topography.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers handicap access as an amenity according to authoritative sources, but detailed reviews about its accessibility features are limited. One review mentions that the lake and beach are 'not for handicapped or elderly.'
Sites SizeUser reviews provide conflicting information about campsite sizes. One user stated, 'Sites have plenty of space in between each other,' while another claimed, 'Sites are lined up right next to each other.'
Sites PrivacyUser reviews frequently mention a lack of privacy at campsites. Quotes include, 'Sites are lined up right next to each other so there is very little privacy,' and 'Sites were to close together for my taste.'
Total Campsites63 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the highway to minimize noise. Those near trails are more convenient for hikers.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not mentioned as the best. However, reviews emphasize the importance of site selection for privacy and quietness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Details not provided for check-in time.
Check-out
Details not provided for check-out time.
Stay Limit
Details not provided for maximum consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limits not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 63 sites, primarily close together, with little privacy. Some backcountry and pioneer sites are also available.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round, but gorge floor permits are not issued during whitewater or aesthetic water releases.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Georgia State Parks website or by calling 1-800-864-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up permits for the gorge floor are limited to 100 per day and issued early in the morning on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details not provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Tallulah Gorge State Park offers a wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, archery, picnicking, and cultural ranger programs. The gorge itself is a key highlight with its challenging trails like the Hurricane Falls Loop.
Hiking
Hiking trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park are a major attraction. The Hurricane Falls Loop involves approximately 2 miles round trip and includes a total of 1,099 stairs, rated as difficult. User reviews emphasize the strenuous nature of these trails: 'Do not attempt this trail if you have any known health condition,' and 'The hike down was not bad but climbing back up the stairs was intimidating, knowing how many stairs you had to scale.'Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, although details about specific types of fish or fishing quality are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is available, with users mentioning enjoyable swimming experiences at Sliding Rock and lake-based activities. For instance, one user stated, 'I got to swim and slide at Sliding Rock.'Biking
Biking opportunities include a paved 1.7-mile former railroad bed path suitable for strollers and bicycles, as well as a challenging 10-mile trail for mountain bikers.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center offers exhibits on the area's history and ecosystem, along with an award-winning film about the gorge.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Limited details are provided, although one user review mentions enjoying swimming and sliding at Sliding Rock, which might involve non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire policies are not detailed, though fire rings are available at campsites.
- Quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe gorge features 1,099 stairs to the floor, posing challenges for those with health conditions. Slippery rocks and water hazards are common, and visitors should be cautious of wildlife like water moccasins.
Active alertsGorge floor permits are unavailable during water releases in spring and fall.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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 medical facility: Habersham Medical Center in Demorest, GA, approximately 11 miles away. Nearest police presence: Park rangers on-site and Tallulah Falls Police Department nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall are peak seasons due to the weather and the aesthetic and whitewater releases. Exact dates are tied to releases.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed in authoritative sources or user reviews, but the park includes overall well-maintained amenities according to some users.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Tallulah River and waterfalls, with a 63-acre lake and beach on-site.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include poor campground layout, lack of privacy between sites, and outdated or unclean bathroom facilities.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, though some visitors report mixed experiences.
Campground Map
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr, TALLULAH FALLS, Georgia, 30573, United States
Driving directionsFrom Atlanta: I-85 north to I-985 (I-985 turns into 365), 365 to 441 North, 441 to Tallulah Gorge. Follow signs to interpretive center either turn right or left onto Jane Hurt Yarn Drive: depending on direction of travel.
Road access appears paved and well-marked, though some reviews mention unclear signage and steep roads. "Roads were unmarked. Took my 38ft 5th wheel down a very narrow dirt trail and had to turn around in someone's driveway." Seasonal conditions may influence navigability.Nearby places
Atlanta: Approximately 90 miles (1.5-2 hours drive)
Clayton: Approximately 14 miles (20 minutes drive)
Helen: Approximately 28 miles (35 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be found in nearby Clayton, GA, (14 miles away) or in Tallulah Falls, which has some convenience stores.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tallulah Gorge State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Tallulah Gorge State Park receives mixed reviews from users. Positive highlights include its spectacular scenery, challenging hikes, and friendly staff. Complaints include issues with bathroom cleanliness, highway noise, and campsite privacy.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
User reviews emphasize the park's breathtaking views, challenging trails, clean campsites, and friendly staff. Quotes include, 'Spectacular views for those willing to make the challenging hikes,' and...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include bathroom cleanliness, lack of privacy at campsites, and noise from nearby highways. One user stated, 'Bathrooms need to be updated,' while another mentioned, 'Sites are...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend wearing hiking shoes, carrying plenty of water, and bringing a bag to avoid wet shoes. They also advise checking the website for water release schedules and arriving early to secure...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the park is particularly stunning in the fall due to the changing leaves. However, summer weekends can be crowded, and winter visits might offer fewer amenities and colder...
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Camper Quotes
Examples of direct user quotes include: 'Absolutely loved it! Hike every step and stopped at every overlook,' and 'The park is kid-friendly with stair-based access and rim-based trail access.'
Site-Specific Reviews
One user highlighted the pioneer campsite, noting, 'Pioneer campsite was convenient and large.' Another mentioned issues with site layout, stating, 'Sites were lined up right next to each other,...
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Accessibility Features
No detailed reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on rim trails but prohibited on the gorge floor or trails accessing the gorge. One user mentioned, 'No pets down there either.'
Last updated August 10, 2025