Van Hook Glade

338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr, TALLULAH FALLS, Georgia, 30573, United States

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.

4726 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552, USA

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains, Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its 80 thoughtfully designed campsites spread across a pristine forest landscape. This highly-rated gem seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern convenience, offering everything from secluded primitive tent spots for the purist camper to full-service RV sites for those seeking comfort in nature. Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking mountain vistas, meticulously maintained facilities, and the perfect balance between wilderness adventure and accessible recreation that makes this destination a favorite among families and solo adventurers alike.

Hartwell Lake

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Nestled deep within the expansive southern woodlands near the pristine Chattooga River, Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp offers adventurers an authentic wilderness experience. This secluded camp serves as your gateway to miles of untamed forest, where towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral and the sounds of nature replace the noise of modern life.

112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA

Escape to the untamed beauty of Cassidy Bridge Primitive Camp, where the rushing waters of the Chauga River provide a natural soundtrack to your wilderness adventure. Nestled within the Andrew Pickens Ranger District of Oconee County, this back-to-basics campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the perfect basecamp for exploring South Carolina's mountainous playground. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, navigating forest trails on foot or horseback, tracking game through ancient woods, or seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, this rustic retreat delivers authentic outdoor experiences. True to its primitive nature, the campground provides essential facilities including pit toilets and spacious RV parking areas, allowing you to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with nature.

671 High Falls Road, Seneca, South Carolina, 29672-0411, United States

Discover your perfect lakeside escape at High Falls County Park, where 46 pristine acres along the shores of Lake Keowee create an outdoor paradise in South Carolina's stunning Mountain Lakes region. Choose from 91 thoughtfully designed campsites, including 10 coveted waterfront spots where you'll wake to sparkling lake views just steps from your tent or RV. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring crystal-clear waters by kayak, or gathering around the campfire as stars emerge overhead, this fully-equipped park offers the ideal basecamp for adventure. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with natural beauty, featuring electrical and water hookups, clean bathhouses, a refreshing swimming area, playgrounds for the kids, and courts for friendly competition.

2726 West Wildcat Rd., Clayton, GA

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of North Georgia's mountains, Wildcat Creek Campground #1 Lower offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This tent-only sanctuary sits alongside the babbling waters of Wildcat Creek, where rainbow trout dart through crystal-clear pools during stocking season. Here, primitive camping takes on its truest form—no RVs, no generators, just you and the ancient forest. While current road conditions have temporarily limited access, this hidden gem remains a coveted destination for adventurous souls who understand that the best campsites are often the hardest to reach.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

3655 Highway 197, CLARKESVILLE, Georgia, 30523, United States

Nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Burton, Moccasin Creek State Park welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to its intimate 53-site campground where families gather under towering pines and memories are made by the water's edge. Whether you're backing in your RV, pitching a tent under the stars, or launching your boat at dawn, this accessible mountain retreat offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern comfort. From the ADA-accessible fishing pier where anglers of all abilities can cast their lines, to the playground echoing with children's laughter, every corner of this park invites you to slow down and savor the mountain life. Wind through scenic hiking trails, discover the fascinating world of trout at the adjacent rearing station, or simply watch the sunset paint the lake in shades of gold.

Andrew Pickens Ranger District, Oconee County, South Carolina

Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Whetstone Horse Camp offers equestrians a perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of South Carolina's Andrew Pickens Ranger District. Located about 13 miles northwest of Walhalla in Oconee County's western corner, this specialized campground sits near the legendary Chattooga River and provides access to more than 30 miles of horseback riding trails. The setting captures that special transition zone where the Piedmont meets the mountains, with the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests' 629,000 acres stretching out in every direction. The campground features 18 dedicated equestrian sites, each thoughtfully designed with parking spurs large enough to accommodate horse trailers. Every site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post, while hitching racks are strategically placed throughout the facility so your horses are never far from camp. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided, keeping things comfortable without sacrificing the rustic atmosphere. All sites operate on a reservation-only basis year-round, so advance planning is essential. The facilities strike a nice balance between basic amenities and the authentic backcountry experience that serious trail riders seek. Trail enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with the Rocky Gap Trail winding through the South Carolina side of the river and the Willis Knob Horse Trail crossing into Georgia. Both trails offer excellent terrain for horseback riding and hiking, ranging through diverse mountain landscapes. Beyond the saddle, the nearby Chattooga River beckons for exploration, and the area's cultural attractions add dimension to your visit. The historic Stumphouse Tunnel—an incomplete 19th-century railroad project—and the scenic Isaqueena Falls are both just 20 minutes away. Time your visit for the third weekend in October, and you can catch Walhalla's annual Oktoberfest celebration, a 13-mile ride back to civilization. Getting here requires navigating about 5 miles on Whetstone Road from Highway 28, with the final stretch on gravel, so come prepared for a true backcountry approach that sets the tone for your mountain adventure.

Oconee State Park

Nestled in the South Carolina mountains, Oconee State Park welcomes families to a woodland retreat where two sparkling lakes anchor a playground of outdoor adventure. Here, shaded campsites serve as your basecamp for fishing, paddling, swimming, and exploring miles of forest trails, all while enjoying modern comforts like clean bathhouses and a fun miniature golf course.

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Escape into the heart of untamed wilderness at this secluded primitive campsite, where towering trees create a natural cathedral seven miles from the Stumphouse Ranger Station. Here, modern distractions fade away as you embrace the authentic camping experience, surrounded by the whispers of ancient forest and the promise of adventure just beyond your tent flap.

1922 Willis Knob Road, Forest Service Road #157, Clayton, GA 30525

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Willis Knob Horse Camp, where the rugged beauty of northern Georgia's Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest beckons equestrians and nature enthusiasts alike. This secluded mountain retreat offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and wilderness charm, featuring convenient water and electric hookups alongside traditional vault toilets and sturdy hitching posts for your four-legged companions. Miles of scenic trails wind through the forest, inviting riders and hikers to explore breathtaking vistas and discover hidden pathways leading to the pristine waters of the legendary Chattooga River.

3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway, Clayton, Georgia, 30562, United States

Perched atop Georgia's highest peaks, Black Rock Mountain State Park beckons adventurers seeking refuge above the clouds. This elevated sanctuary combines pristine wilderness with thoughtfully designed camping facilities, where tent campers can wake to sunrise over distant ridges, RV travelers enjoy full hookups with million-dollar views, and backpackers discover secluded walk-in sites nestled among ancient hardwoods.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Nestled in the heart of Chattahoochee National Forest and kissing the edge of the Mark Trail Wilderness, Low Gap Campground offers an intimate escape with just 13 sites that blend developed convenience with backcountry solitude. Just minutes from the charming alpine village of Helen, this hidden gem serves as your gateway to cascading waterfalls, pristine trout streams, and the legendary Appalachian Trail.

800 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Tallulah River at 2,080 feet elevation, this intimate campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its cathedral of towering pines and majestic hardwoods. Here, the gentle murmur of the river mingles with the whisper of mountain breezes, creating an idyllic basecamp for anglers casting for native trout and hikers exploring the nearby Coleman River Trail. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness tranquility.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Nestled at 2,080 feet along the pristine banks of the Tallulah River, this family-friendly campground serves as your gateway to mountain adventure. With the Coleman River Trailhead practically at your doorstep and the river's cool waters beckoning anglers of all ages, it's the perfect basecamp for creating lasting outdoor memories—including the beloved annual Kid's Fishing Rodeo each June.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful corner of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Sarah's Creek Campground offers 22 intimate sites where the sounds of flowing water replace the noise of everyday life. This primitive-style retreat sits at the crossroads of multiple creeks and the legendary Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, creating a haven for anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking the restorative power of moving water.

1946 Sarah's Creek Rd., Clayton GA

Tucked away in a pristine corner of nature, Sarah's Creek Campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This peaceful retreat features 22 thoughtfully placed campsites where the gentle murmur of Sarah's Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. Here, primitive camping meets modern tranquility, offering visitors the perfect balance of accessibility and escape. Whether you're casting a line into the creek's cool waters, scanning the treeline for wildlife, or simply unwinding beneath the forest canopy, this hidden gem delivers the restorative power of nature without the crowds.

Keowee-Toxaway State Park

Tucked along the pristine shores of Lake Keowee, this intimate state park offers a serene escape where wooded campsites nestle between mountain vistas and sparkling water. Campers rave about the peaceful, well-spaced sites—some with stunning lake and mountain views—plus clean restrooms with hot showers and easy water access via the boat ramp.

112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC, 29664, USA

Nestled deep in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Cherry Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This beloved mountain retreat sits just moments from the legendary Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, where pristine waters carve through ancient forests. Here, campers discover a perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, with cascading waterfalls, meandering trails, and prime fishing holes waiting to be explored. The campground's natural setting provides a tranquil basecamp for those ready to immerse themselves in one of the Southeast's most stunning landscapes.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tucked along the pristine waters of the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River's west fork, West Fork Campground offers an intimate escape with just five walk-in campsites. This hidden gem in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest rewards those willing to park centrally and walk to their secluded riverside retreat, where the sounds of rushing water replace the noise of everyday life.

919 Overflow Creek Rd., Clayton, GA

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the forest, West Fork Campground offers five thoughtfully spaced campsites where the only sounds breaking the silence are the gentle murmur of the Chattooga River and the rustle of leaves overhead. This intimate, primitive campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, where modern distractions fade away and nature takes center stage. Each site provides generous privacy and direct access to the pristine riverbank, creating your own personal gateway to one of the Southeast's most cherished waterways.

Devils Fork State Park

Nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Jocassee, Devils Fork State Park delivers that rare mountain-meets-water magic that makes South Carolina's Upstate unforgettable. Here, crystal-clear lake waters lap against your campsite while forested peaks frame sunsets you'll still be talking about next summer. Whether you're launching a kayak at dawn, swimming in some of the clearest water in the Southeast, or simply stargazing from your campsite with nothing but lake sounds as your soundtrack, this is where water lovers and peace-seekers find their happy place.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Nestled along the pristine shores of the Tallulah River, Tate Branch Campground offers 17 developed sites where the gentle rush of water becomes your constant companion. This rustic riverside retreat in the heart of Chattahoochee National Forest provides an authentic mountain camping experience, with all sites requiring advance reservations through recreation.gov beginning May 1st, 2025.

4049 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA

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.

4841 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA

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.

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Escape to the untamed beauty of Burrells Ford, where the sound of rushing water replaces city noise and starlit skies stretch endlessly overhead. This hidden gem along the legendary Chattooga River welcomes adventurers year-round with free primitive camping just a pleasant quarter-mile trek from the parking area. Your riverside retreat comes equipped with the essentials—sturdy picnic tables for gathering, fire rings for evening storytelling, and a vault toilet—all while maintaining the wild character that makes this spot so special.

National Forests in North Carolina

Escape to Hurricane Creek Horse & Primitive Campground, where the rhythm of hoofbeats and the whisper of forest trails create an authentic backcountry experience. This rustic retreat beckons equestrians and adventurers alike with its network of winding trails, well-appointed horse stalls, and essential amenities including fire rings and vault toilets. Whether you arrive on horseback or hiking boots, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where outdoor traditions thrive and hunters pursue both big and small game through the surrounding wilderness.

90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734

Nestled in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest, Kimsey Creek Group Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable wilderness retreat with friends and family. This verdant oasis sits gracefully alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Nantahala River, where native trout dart through sun-dappled pools. As part of the greater Standing Indian Campground complex, Kimsey Creek serves as your gateway to adventure, with winding trails leading to towering mountain peaks and pristine hunting grounds teeming with both big and small game. Whether you're planning a reunion, scout trip, or outdoor celebration, this group campground provides the perfect basecamp for creating lasting memories in nature's embrace.

National Forests in North Carolina

OFF FOREST DEVELOPMENT RD 67, FRANKLIN, NC, 28734, USA

Nestled deep within the Nantahala National Forest, Standing Indian Campground beckons adventurers with its four distinct camping loops that wind through ancient mountain terrain. Whether you arrive with an RV or pitch a tent beneath towering evergreens, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where modern comforts meet wilderness wonder. Each site comes thoughtfully appointed with campfire rings for evening storytelling, grills for mountaintop meals, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as dusk settles over the peaks. Fresh mountain water flows from spigots throughout the grounds, while clean flush toilets and hot showers ensure comfort after days spent exploring miles of hiking trails, playing in the crystal-clear Nantahala River, or pursuing game through misty hollows.

976 Grassy Ridge RD, Sapphire, North Carolina, 28774, United States

Nestled in North Carolina's rugged mountain wilderness, Gorges State Park welcomes adventurers with pristine camping facilities that blend modern comfort with untamed nature. Choose from traditional tent sites beneath towering hardwoods, fully-equipped RV sites with all the amenities, or cozy rental cabins perfect for those seeking a rustic retreat. The park's crown jewels—the thundering Rainbow Falls and the mesmerizing Turtleback Falls—await discovery along meticulously maintained trails that wind through this spectacular landscape.

90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian wilderness, Appletree Group Campground offers an exceptional retreat designed specifically for groups seeking to reconnect in nature. Four thoughtfully planned sites accommodate gatherings of all sizes - from intimate reunions of 25 at Sites A and D to larger celebrations of up to 50 people at Sites B and C. Each site comes complete with covered picnic shelters perfect for group meals, traditional fire rings for evening storytelling, vintage-style lantern posts that cast a warm glow, and spacious grassy meadows ideal for tent villages. Modern conveniences haven't been forgotten - clean restrooms with flush toilets and a well-maintained shower house ensure comfort without compromising the outdoor experience.

5464 Charleys Creek Road, Tuckasegee, NC 28783, USA

Hidden deep within the sprawling 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest, Balsam Lake Lodge emerges like a woodland sanctuary where comfort meets wilderness. This cherished retreat perches above the tranquil waters of Balsam Lake, offering groups an authentic mountain experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Behind its rustic facade, you'll discover 16 cozy twin beds awaiting weary adventurers, a fully-equipped kitchen ready for hearty camp meals, outdoor grills perfect for evening cookouts under the stars, modern flush toilets, and a steady supply of firewood to keep the stories flowing long into the night.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

Nestled deep within the Appalachian Mountains of Pisgah National Forest, Cove Creek Upper Group Camp offers an authentic wilderness retreat perfect for large gatherings of up to 60 adventurers. This spacious group campsite combines rustic charm with essential amenities, featuring thoughtfully placed picnic tables and grills beneath a canopy of shade trees, traditional campfire rings for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and fresh water spigots throughout the grounds. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or outdoor celebration, this mountain sanctuary provides the ideal basecamp for creating lasting memories in nature.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

Tucked away where Cove Creek whispers through the verdant valleys of western North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains, Cove Creek Lower Group Camp invites large gatherings to connect with nature and each other. This spacious forest retreat welcomes up to 60 adventurers who come seeking the perfect blend of outdoor excitement and mountain tranquility. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, exploring winding mountain bike trails, or simply gathering around the campfire under a canopy of ancient hardwoods, this year-round sanctuary offers endless possibilities for creating lasting memories with your group.

1373 Thunderbird Mountain Road, Robbinsville, NC, USA

Nestled within the pristine Nantahala National Forest, Cheoah Point Cabin 1 beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This charming rustic cabin serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits, from meandering along scenic hiking trails to diving into the crystal-clear waters at the dedicated swim beach. Here, the simplicity of basic amenities meets the luxury of nature's grandeur, where mornings begin with mist rising off Santeetlah Lake and evenings end with the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

1373 Thunderbird Mountain Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA

Nestled within the pristine Nantahala National Forest, Cheoah Point Cabin 2 offers an enchanting lakeside escape where tranquility meets adventure. This thoughtfully positioned retreat commands stunning views of Santeetlah Lake's crystalline waters, while providing convenient access to a refreshing swim beach, well-maintained boat ramp, and scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness. Here, the gentle lapping of lake waters and rustling forest canopy create nature's perfect soundtrack for your mountain getaway.

National Forests in North Carolina

Nestled in an intimate single-row layout, Sunburst Campground offers a cozy retreat where simplicity meets comfort. Each thoughtfully appointed site comes complete with picnic tables, dedicated tent pads, ambient lantern posts, and campfire rings with cooking grills, while modern flush-toilet restrooms and conveniently available firewood ensure your wilderness experience never sacrifices essential comforts.

8820 Lake Logan Road, Canton, NC 28716

Deep in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, where towering trees whisper stories of the past, Sunburst Campground awaits with 10 intimate primitive campsites. This former logging camp has transformed into a sanctuary for modern adventurers, where the melodic flow of the West Fork of the Pigeon River provides nature's soundtrack. Here, rustic charm meets untamed wilderness, creating the perfect escape for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences far from the digital world's constant hum.

1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Nestled within the renowned Tsali Recreation Area, this 42-site forested haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its seamless blend of comfort and adventure. Mountain bikers and equestrians find their paradise here, with direct access to an extensive four-loop trail system that winds through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy or settling in with a small RV, you'll enjoy thoughtful amenities including fresh drinking water, modern flush toilets, and revitalizing hot showers after a day on the trails.

OFF FOREST DEVELOPMENT RD 67, FRANKLIN, NC, 28734, USA

Nestled deep within the Nantahala National Forest, Standing Indian Campground beckons adventurers with its four distinct camping loops that wind through ancient mountain terrain. Whether you arrive with an RV or pitch a tent beneath towering evergreens, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where modern comforts meet wilderness wonder. Each site comes thoughtfully appointed with campfire rings for evening storytelling, grills for mountaintop meals, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as dusk settles over the peaks. Fresh mountain water flows from spigots throughout the grounds, while clean flush toilets and hot showers ensure comfort after days spent exploring miles of hiking trails, playing in the crystal-clear Nantahala River, or pursuing game through misty hollows.