Lake Conasauga Campground
4.5442 reviewsLake Conasauga Campground
$8.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Each campsite costs $15 per night. This fee structure applies during peak season from April 17 through October 30.
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
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider706-695-6736
About this campground
Perched at Georgia's rooftop, Lake Conasauga Campground beckons adventurers to discover a hidden mountain sanctuary where clouds drift through towering pines and the air carries the crisp promise of alpine mornings. This remote wilderness retreat offers 30 thoughtfully placed campsites across two distinct loops—the Lower Loop, where morning mist rises from the lake's surface just steps from your tent, and the Upper Loop, nestled among ancient hemlocks and rhododendrons that create a natural cathedral of green.
Lake Conasauga Campground is a rustic facility offering multiple camping options. The campsite is ideal for both individual and small group camping, with settings that range from lakeside to forested.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Lake Conasauga, where the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every stone-lined trail and carefully crafted structure. In 1940, young men of the CCC transformed this remote mountainside into an accessible wilderness gem, creating the sparkling 17-acre lake that now reflects eight decades of conservation success. Their handiwork stands as a testament to America's commitment to preserving wild places for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's natural air conditioning at Lake Conasauga, where temperatures run a blissful 10-15 degrees cooler than the sweltering valleys below—a phenomenon that transforms this mountain hideaway into summer's perfect escape. Mountain weather adds its own dramatic flair, with afternoon thunderstorms rolling across the peaks and morning fog creating ethereal landscapes. Pack layers and rain gear to fully embrace the dynamic mountain climate that keeps this ecosystem lush and vibrant.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 3,150 feet above sea level, Lake Conasauga claims the crown as Georgia's highest elevation lake, offering visitors a rare taste of Southern Appalachian high country. This lofty perch delivers more than just bragging rights—it's your ticket to cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and the kind of crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where mountain majesty meets aquatic serenity at this 17-acre jewel cradled by the ancient Cohutta Mountains. From your campsite, watch morning light paint Grassy Mountain's slopes while the pristine lake mirrors the sky's changing moods. The adjacent Cohutta Wilderness stretches endlessly beyond, offering glimpses of one of the East's last truly wild places where black bears roam and native brook trout dance in hidden streams.
Geological RegionDiscover the rugged beauty of the Cohutta Mountains in northwest Georgia, where ancient ridges tell stories written in stone over millions of years. This pristine corner of the Southern Appalachians showcases dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine that blanket weathered peaks and shelter deep hollows where mountain streams are born. It's a landscape that feels forgotten by time, yet perfectly preserved for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is limited due to the steep, narrow, and winding mountain roads leading to the campground. Sites are gravel-based, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites are designed for tents, pop-up campers, and trailers under 25 feet. Some sites are more spacious than others, with differences in proximity to the lake and privacy levels.
Sites PrivacyCampsites vary in privacy, with some offering lake views and others nestled within forested areas. Reviews frequently highlight the peacefulness of the Upper Loop and proximity to the lake in the Lower Loop.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites in the Lower Loop for lake views and proximity to trails.
Best CampsitesSite 17 in the Lower Loop offers lake views. Site 24 is near the Lake Loop trailhead.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 days within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Five people per site and two vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe Lower Loop offers campsites with lake views, while the Upper Loop provides more forested surroundings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 17th to October 30th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee applies for modifications or cancellations. For late cancellations (after midnight of the day before check-in), the first night's fee is forfeited. For no-shows, an additional $20 fee applies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Conasauga Campground provides a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy hiking on trails ranging from 1-mile loops to 4-mile round trips, fishing for bass and bream in the lake, swimming in a designated area with natural spring water, and kayaking or canoeing. Wildlife viewing is abundant, with opportunities to observe deer, turkeys, and diverse bird species. The adjacent Songbird Management Area offers an interpretive nature hike centered around a beaver pond.
Hiking
Lake Conasauga offers three primary hiking trails: the 1-mile Lake Loop Trail, the 2.8-mile Songbird Trail, and the 4-mile Tower Trail. These trails showcase the area's natural beauty and provide options for various difficulty levels.Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can look forward to catching bass, bream, and the occasional catfish. A Georgia fishing license is required for ages 16 and older. Fishing is supported by a dock and plentiful shoreline access via the Lake Loop Trail.Swimming
The campground features a roped-off swimming area with a dock, located across the lake near a picnic shelter. The lake’s cold, spring-fed waters provide a refreshing option during warmer months.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, with a small boat launch available. Only non-motorized or electric motorboats are permitted on the lake.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may encounter deer, turkeys, and black bears. The nearby Songbird Management Area offers birdwatching opportunities alongside interpretive trails.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the campground’s remote location may make it inaccessible during adverse winter weather.Water Sports
Lake activities include kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, but no motorized water sports are allowed.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood must be brought in or collected from dead and downed trees in the surrounding forest.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity has been reported, and visitors are advised to store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife. Driving conditions on gravel roads can be hazardous after rain or wind.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
55
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 99%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Crandall, GA, about 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 17th to October 30th.
Trash and recyclingBear-resistant trash receptacles are available, and campers are required to manage their waste securely due to bear activity. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Lake Conasauga, the campground includes access to a swimming dock, fishing areas, and a small boat launch.
Common complaintsLimited water supply with only one working faucet in the campground. Some fire pits are difficult to use, and garbage collection delays have led to overflowing bins and bear issues.
HostThe host cabin is a private residence within the campground. Hosts are generally welcoming and occasionally organize activities for visitors.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Atlanta: take I-75 N to I-575. I-575 turns into Hwy 515 and continue to Ellijay. From Ellijay, take GA Hwy 52 west for 5 miles to Gates Chapel Road on the right. Turn right and travel about 7 miles to end of pavement. Continue on dirt/gravel road (Forest Service Road #90) about 2 miles to stop sign. Turn right onto Forest Service Road #68. Continue 3-4 miles to T-intersection. Turn left to continue on Forest Service Road #68. Continue about 4-5 miles to entrance to Lake Conasauga Campground.
Road access requires navigating steep, narrow, winding, bumpy, gravel mountain roads. Travel trailers over 25 feet are not recommended, and Forest Road 68 is recommended for pulling trailers.Nearby places
Crandall, GA is 15 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Gas stations and general stores are located in Crandall, GA, approximately 15 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
42 reviews
Lake Conasauga Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Conasauga Campground are generally positive, with visitors praising the natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and recreational opportunities. However, some complaints highlight issues with road access, water supply, and occasional maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently compliment the lake’s natural beauty, the cooler temperatures at high elevation, the shaded campsites, and the well-maintained hiking trails. Many describe the campground as a...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the challenging access roads, issues with water supply (e.g., non-working spigots), lack of maintenance in restrooms, and bear activity due to overflowing trash bins....
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including firewood, as there are no stores nearby. Offline maps are also advised due to unreliable GPS and cell service. Early arrivals are...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the lake’s refreshing swimming area and cooler temperatures. Fall is noted for its vibrant foliage and quieter experience. Spring visitors enjoy the blooming wildflowers,...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The lake is beautiful in all weather. It’s one of the best NF recreation areas we’ve been to.' - Kai Boccagna
2. 'Sites are cheap but it’s first come, first serve. The lake is beautiful, and...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are praised for their privacy or proximity to amenities. For example, Site 24 backs up to the Lake Loop Trail, which some visitors found disruptive. Site 17 in the Lower Loop is highly...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews highlight the lack of paved roads and the gravel-based campsites as barriers for campers with disabilities. Few specific accessibility features are noted in the campground.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users advise caution as pets are prohibited in the swimming area. One reviewer noted that their dogs were unsettled by foot traffic near their campsite.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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