Jacks River Fields Campground
4.7120 reviewsJacks River Fields Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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 at Jacks River Fields is $5 per night. Payments are made on-site either in cash or through a QR code system using the Recreation.gov app.
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Recreation.gov
Provider706-695-6736
About this campground
Nestled deep in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Jacks River Fields Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This intimate campground offers just 7 thoughtfully designed sites, each complete with tent pads, parking spurs, picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as evening falls. What sets this hidden gem apart is its equestrian-friendly nature—horseback riders will discover well-maintained corrals and sturdy hitching posts, making it a perfect basecamp for exploring miles of mountain trails on horseback. Whether you're drawn by the melodic songs of native birds at dawn, the promise of secluded hiking trails, or simply the desire to disconnect from the modern world, this mountain sanctuary delivers an experience that feels wonderfully removed from time.
Jacks River Fields Campground is a small, primitive campground offering a rugged outdoor experience. It supports tent and equestrian camping. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceLong before tents dotted these clearings, the area known as Upper Jacks River thrived as a bustling mountain community. Today, keen-eyed visitors can still discover echoes of this forgotten settlement hidden among the trees. Perhaps most intriguing are the traces of early conservation history—this was once the domain of federal game wardens who patrolled the newly established national forest in the early 1900s, protecting these wild lands for future generations. Their legacy lives on in the pristine wilderness that surrounds modern campers, a testament to over a century of careful stewardship.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 2,700 feet, Jacks River Fields offers a natural air conditioning system that transforms sweltering summer days into comfortable mountain evenings perfect for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests explode into a painter's palette of crimson, gold, and amber—creating one of nature's most spectacular shows. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though adventurers should come prepared for genuine mountain conditions. The gravel access roads can become treacherous ribbons of ice, demanding careful navigation and proper vehicle preparation for those brave enough to experience the campground's quiet winter magic.
ElevationAt 2,700 feet above sea level, Jacks River Fields occupies that sweet spot where southern hospitality meets mountain majesty. This elevation gifts the campground with refreshingly cool breezes that provide natural relief from summer's heat, making it a coveted retreat for those escaping the sweltering valleys below. Yet this mountain perch comes with its own personality—winter visitors should prepare for genuine alpine conditions, where snow can dust the tent pads and morning frost transforms spider webs into delicate crystal chandeliers. The elevation creates its own microclimate, where weather can change as quickly as the mountain moods themselves.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Fork of the Jacks River serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, its gentle murmur providing nature's perfect white noise for peaceful sleep. Towering hemlocks stand sentinel alongside ancient hardwoods, while understory thickets of native rhododendron create natural privacy screens between campsites. Spring and summer bring breathtaking wildflower displays that carpet the forest floor in delicate blooms, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds in abundance. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise—black bears lumber through the woods (proper food storage essential!), wild turkeys strut across clearings, and white-tailed deer often graze in the soft light of dawn and dusk. This is the Appalachian forest at its finest, where every sunrise reveals new natural treasures.
Geological RegionJacks River Fields rests within the ancient embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where millions of years of geological drama have sculpted a landscape of stunning beauty. The campground's setting showcases the region's signature tapestry of mixed hardwood forests intertwined with evergreen hemlocks and the glossy-leaved native rhododendron that bloom in spectacular fashion each summer. The South Fork of the Jacks River has carved its own story through this mountain terrain, creating a ribbon of life that supports an incredibly diverse ecosystem. This is quintessential Appalachian high country, where the very rocks beneath your feet tell stories that predate human memory.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes basic accessibility features such as a vault toilet. However, due to its remote nature and lack of paved roads, the site may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campsites are modest in size and are designed to accommodate tents and smaller vehicles. There are no specific dimensions provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a relatively secluded camping experience, with sites surrounded by forest and located along the South Fork of the Jacks River. However, it is noted that the proximity of sites may limit privacy during busy weekends.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites closer to the river tend to offer scenic views and white noise from flowing waters.
Best CampsitesSite #5 and #9 are noted for their proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Site occupancy begins upon payment. No check-in desk or personnel.
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
24 hours per fee paid. Checkout time is 2 p.m., but additional payment is required to stay post-checkout.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specified limit of guests in the authoritative content.
Groups
There are no designated group sites mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutConsists of distinct numbered sites, each equipped for tents with parking spurs and space for vehicles.
Reservation PlatformsOn-site payment through Recreation.gov app QR codes.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis with physical check-ins only. Users must arrive early to secure a campsite during busy weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-refundable and cannot be modified after payment is made. Payment is required upon arrival for each full day occupying your site.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, hunting, and exploring wildflowers. The South Fork Trail, adjacent to the campground, serves as a multi-use trail suitable for equestrians, hikers, and bikers. Nearby attractions include the Cohutta Wilderness, which offers challenging backpacking trails.
Hiking
The South Fork Trail is a multi-use trail adjacent to the campground, supporting hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Additionally, the nearby Cohutta Wilderness offers strenuous backpacking opportunities.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along the South Fork of the Jacks River. Specific details on fish types are not provided.Biking
Biking is allowed on the South Fork Trail, which is a multi-use trail that passes near the campground.Wildlife viewing
The campground's location in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as bears, deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of songbirds.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned.Water Sports
There are no non-motorized water sports opportunities explicitly stated.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only.
- Quiet hours are maintained from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears and other wildlife attractions, slippery rocks near trails, and the narrow gravel roads leading to the campground.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.8 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingA centrally located bear-proof trash can is available for waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated alongside the South Fork of the Jacks River, which flows into other tributaries forming the Jacks River.
Common complaintsUsers often mention the challenging gravel road access and lack of running water as issues.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated in North Georgia, Jacks River Fields Campground can be accessed via Forest Road 157. It is approximately 8 miles down a rutted forest service road from the main highway. Slow driving is advised, especially for vehicles with low clearance.
Access involves a challenging drive on unpaved, gravel roads. This road often has potholes and is only one lane in parts, requiring careful navigation and patience. Vehicles such as trucks, jeeps, or other high-clearance options are highly recommended.Camper Reviews
4.7
20 reviews
Jacks River Fields Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, campers appreciate the remote and serene atmosphere of Jacks River Fields Campground. Reviews highlight the clean facilities, access to trails, and the opportunity to escape urban noise. However, some visitors mention challenges accessing the site due to rough roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the pristine and quiet setting, well-maintained vault toilet, and proximity to trails. "A wonderful find along the loop," one reviewer noted. "The campsites were excellent and the...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some common issues include the difficulty of driving on the rough, narrow gravel roads leading to the site. Lack of running water and limited cell service were also mentioned as drawbacks. One...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing sufficient water and supplies as there are no facilities for running water or stores nearby. It's also recommended to arrive early to secure a site as all are first-come,...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during weekends and holidays in spring, summer, and fall. Visitors noted the vibrant display of wildflowers and songbirds during the warmer months. Fewer visitors come...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful place. Two small corrals for horses." - K.G. "Great place for the family to relax and picnic." - Amanda Thibodeaux "Quiet, lovely location... near a trailhead." - Kristi Gibbons
Based on 20 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details are not provided, but users appreciate the proximity of sites to the river and trails.
Based on 20 reviewsAccessibility Features
The rugged terrain and remote location may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues. There are no detailed reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Visitors with pets appreciated the serene environment for dog-friendly walks but noted the importance of keeping pets secure due to wildlife.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025