The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, located in Georgia, spans an impressive 867,000 acres across 26 counties, offering a diverse landscape of clear-running streams, lush forests, and scenic trails. This vast expanse is divided into two districts: the Chattahoochee National Forest in the north and the Oconee National Forest in the south. With approximately 850 miles of recreational trails and numerous campgrounds, it’s a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Where to Camp
Camping in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offers several developed campgrounds, many of which are RV-friendly with water and electric hookups. Some campgrounds even offer additional amenities such as showers, flush toilets, and sewer connections. Check the top campgrounds in Georgiaif you prefer camping near the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.You can also look for dump stations located near the forest.
Campgrounds in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
If you want to stay inside this protected area, then you should book a campground at Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. With its large size, you can find various camping locations, including spots for tents and motorhomes. In the Brasstown Bald section, you will want to set up your rig and enjoy the 360-degree panorama of the lakes, mountains, and valleys. The Rabun Beach campground has plenty of space for an RV. Each site includes full hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Close location to hiking trails
Whispering Pines Campground
If you are looking for a family-owned campground, then you might want to reserve your space at Whispering Pines Campground. There are 30 RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables. While you are at the park, you should enjoy the pool, children's play area, and picnic pavilion. For those anglers, you can even try your luck at trout fishing in Hemptown Creek. If you are spending the night, you can expect to pay $20 to $40 per day.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Modern laundry room
Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park is the oldest state park in Georgia. It is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. If you want to stay at this spot for your vacation, there are 90 sites designated for RVers. Along with that, there are also cottages and primitive backpacking sites available for rent.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Camping store, bike rentals, playground
RV Rentals Near Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
This heavily trafficked trail features a waterfall, and it is an excellent path for those hikers of all skill levels. Dukes Creek Trail is used for walking, hiking, bird-watching, and nature trips. It is also accessible throughout the year. Dogs are also allowed on the trail, but they should be kept on a leash.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Mount Yonah Trail
If you want a challenge, you should test your endurance on the Mount Yonah Trail. This trail is the perfect spot to view the native wildflowers. You can find various activities to enjoy, such as bird-watching or stargazing. Due to the trail's difficulty, it is best used from February to November.
Length: 4.8 miles
Intensity: Difficult
High Shoals Falls Trail
This back trail is located near Hiawassee, and it is an excellent spot to see the beautiful waterfalls of Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Anyone who wants to get out and explore the great outdoors should visit this trail. High Shoals Falls Trail is used for both nature trips and hiking adventures. This trail is also a dog-friendly hiking path.
Length: 2.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Len Foote Hike Inn Trail
You can see plenty of waterfalls along the path of Len Foote Hike Inn Trail. This path is located near Dawsonville, and it is used for nature trips and leisurely walks.
Length: 9.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Long Branch Loop Trail
If you want a leisurely walk in the forest, you should consider the Long Branch Loop Trail. This trail is a great place to view the local wildlife or check out the native wildflowers. It is recommended that you use the path from March to October. During the winter, the trail can become hazardous.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Appalachian Trail via Ramrock Mountain
You can travel on a section of the Appalachian Trail in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. This hiking trail is a great place for people of all skill levels to exercise. If you are looking to enjoy nature, this path makes the perfect spot to view the wildlife and marvel at the beautiful flora.
Length: 3.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Angel Falls Trail
This trail is located near Tallulah Falls State Park, and it is primarily used for nature trips and hiking expeditions. You can also see the famous Tallulah Falls cascade down the Tallulah Gorge.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Things to Do
Activities in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Here are some of the interesting things to do in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
Waterskiing is a popular activity at several spots within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Locations like Morganton Point Campground, Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area, and Lake Sinclair Recreation Area offer excellent opportunities for water sports. Lake Rabun, with its 835-acre surface, is particularly great for boating and waterskiing. Lake Sinclair also provides a fantastic setting for picnicking, hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming, with 33 campsites, including five with electric and water hookups.
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offers several recreation areas for boating enthusiasts. Locations like the Deep Hole Recreation Area, Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area, Lake Chatuge Recreation Area, and Miller Creek Lake Recreation Area are ideal for motorized boating. These areas are spread across the forest, offering beautiful, serene lakes that are perfect for leisurely boat rides, fishing, or enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The forest is home to a variety of horse trails, including the Jake and Bull Mountain Trail System, which spans 36 miles of scenic terrain for equestrians. For those looking for a more secluded and peaceful ride, the Willis Knob Horse Camp in the Northeast Georgia Mountains offers camping, riding trails, and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River. The Willis Knob Trail, which connects with the Whetstone Horse Trail in South Carolina, provides 27.5 miles of breathtaking horseback riding opportunities in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains.
Mountain biking is a thrilling way to explore the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, with trails suited for all levels of riders. The Aska Trail System is one of the most well-known, but the forest also offers hidden gems like the Ocmulgee Bluff Trail System, which consists of nearly 30 miles of combined biking and hiking trails. These trails offer diverse terrain, from challenging rides to leisurely loops, all surrounded by the forest's natural beauty.
Nature Watching
Along with the trees and flowers, there is a large population of squirrels, raccoons, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer roaming in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. This national forest is also home to over 190 species of birds, and it is a popular site for birding. You might see a northern cardinal, Carolina chickadee, red-cockaded woodpecker, or blue jay while you are there. Trout, bass, and catfish can be found swimming in the waters.
Geocaching
There are some great activities to enjoy in the park, including hiking, fishing, and camping. In addition to that, geocaching is another popular activity. However, if you are placing an item in the forest, know that all geocaches must be marked and available to the general public.
Stargazing
If you want to look up at the skies, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is far away from the urban lights so that you can have an undisturbed view of the stars.
How to Get There
How to get to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Address: 1755 Cleveland Highway, Gainesville, GA 30501
Fee: Entry fee per vehicle (1-4 adults) $5.0
By Car
From Atlanta: Take I-85 to I-985, and you'll reach the edge of the forest in about 1 hour.
From Chattanooga: Take I-75 and GA-136, which takes around 2.5 hours.
From Charlotte: Take I-85 south, and you'll reach the forest in about 3 hours.
The forest is easily accessible via several highways, and many main campgrounds are just a short drive off the main roads.
By Air
For those flying into the area, several airports are within driving distance of the forest:
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): About 1.5 to 2 hours to the forest.
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): Roughly 2.5 hours to the forest.
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA): Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to the forest.
Seasonal Restrictions
Some roads and campgrounds in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest may have seasonal restrictions, particularly during the winter months when heavy snow or rain can affect accessibility. Certain areas may close or have limited access during spring thaw to prevent trail damage. Visitors should check for updates on road conditions and closures before their trip.
Fees in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
While much of the forest is open for free use, some developed campgrounds and recreation areas may charge fees. Popular locations may have day-use fees, and certain campgrounds require reservations with additional fees for amenities like electric and water hookups. Moreover, facilities like dump stations are available at places like Lake Sinclair, Lake Rabun, and Lake Russell for RV campers. It’s a good idea to check the specific campground for reservation details and fee structures before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Is there a fee to get into Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. However, certain recreational activities or areas may require a fee or permit.
Does Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests have free camping. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the national forest and is free. Campers just need to make sure they leave no trace when they depart their campsites.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?
Yes, you need a permit to hunt in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. A fishing permit is also required to fish in the forest.
What type of wildlife lives in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?
Wildlife that lives in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests includes black bears, shrews, coyotes, bats, beavers, river otters, weasels, and other small animals. There is also a variety of birds and fish that live in the forest.
What is the closest town to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest?
Suches, GA is one of the closest towns to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. Gainesville is another nearby town where visitors can stop to restock, grab a bite to eat, or stay for a night or two.
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