Burrells Ford
4.7252 reviewsBurrells Ford
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
No Fees are required for this site.
About this campground
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.
Burrells Ford Campground offers primitive camping opportunities along the Chattooga River. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cater to tent campers and backpackers.
Weather and SeasonsFour seasons of adventure await at Burrells Ford, where Mother Nature paints a different masterpiece throughout the year. Summer brings perfect temperatures for riverside relaxation and refreshing swims, while autumn transforms the forest canopy into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter adventurers should come prepared for the occasional fallen tree or temporary road closure, but those who venture forth are rewarded with peaceful solitude and crisp mountain air. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and the symphony of rushing snowmelt feeding the river.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched along the banks of the wild and scenic Chattooga River, Burrells Ford immerses you in a pristine wilderness where ancient forests meet tumbling waters. The river's melodic soundtrack accompanies your stay, while towering hardwoods and mountain laurel create a natural cathedral overhead. Adventure beckons just beyond your campsite—follow hidden trails to discover the thundering cascade of King's Creek Falls or the mystical beauty of Spoonauger Falls, where water has carved spectacular formations through ages of patient persistence.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no detailed information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are of varying sizes and can accommodate tents. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyCampsites provide moderate privacy; they are "not too close together," according to a user review.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a wagon to transport gear due to the quarter-mile hike to the campsites. Opt for riverfront sites for the best views and proximity to fishing spots.
Best CampsitesSome campsites are situated near the river and considered highly desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to 14 days.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread along the river, with additional sites clustered further away from the main group.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year round
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come first served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burrells Ford Campground offers ample outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and nature exploration. The site provides easy access to nearby trails and waterfalls.
Hiking
Multiple trails are accessible from the campground, including the Foothills Trail and shorter hikes to Spoonauger Falls and King’s Creek Falls. User reviews praise these trails for their scenic beauty.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Burrells Ford, especially for trout, as the Department of Natural Resources stocks the river. Fly fishing and relaxing by the river are common activities.Swimming
The Chattooga River has sections deep enough for swimming, offering a refreshing activity during warmer months.Wildlife viewing
User reviews highlight a natural setting that supports wildlife viewing, though specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round, but no specific winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned. Winter camping may be challenging due to road conditions and weather.Water Sports
The Chattooga River offers opportunities for water-based activities such as splashing and light water exploration, but no specific water sports infrastructure is mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are provided at each campsite. Campers are advised to follow fire safety guidelines.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, fallen trees in inclement weather, and the absence of running water or electricity.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 recyclingTrash bins are available, but user reviews note that they can sometimes be overflowing. Campers are encouraged to pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly along the Chattooga River, offering access for fishing and other water-based activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor road maintenance, littering at campsites, overflowing waste bins, and occasional disturbances from other campers.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.7
52 reviews
Burrells Ford is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Burrells Ford Campground is widely praised for its scenic location along the Chattooga River, its accessibility to trails and waterfalls, and its peaceful, off-the-grid experience. Many users highlight the primitive nature of the campground, which allows for a more remote and natural experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes the beautiful riverfront setting, access to excellent fishing and hiking, and the availability of fire rings and bear hang systems at each site. Users also appreciate the...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of running water and electricity, overflowing trash bins, and occasional campsite litter. Some reviewers also mention the steep hike between the parking area and...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring wagons for hauling gear, pack in water and firewood, and plan for no cell service. It’s recommended to visit during weekdays or off-peak times to secure a campsite.
Based on 52 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is described as being quieter and more secluded in the winter, while summer weekends can be crowded. Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great location and experience, and being off the grid for a couple days was just what I needed." - Ken Forsythe. "Fishing is excellent in this area." - Patrick Ward. "The campground provides easy...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Some users favor the sites directly by the river for their views and water access. "The spot we usually try to get is right next to the river, so that is nice," one camper noted. Another user...
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Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are available.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as pet-friendly, though users recommend vigilance about campsite cleanliness due to nails and glass in some areas. "Just keep an eye out when you're driving into the sites...
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Last updated August 10, 2025