Georgia / Lumpkin County / Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest / Chestatee Wildlife Management Area

Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Open — Open year-round with seasonal pricing. Peak season rates ($20/night single, $40/night double) apply. Non-peak rates ($10/night single, $20/night double) apply. Potable water available April 1 through October 31. Reservations available up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov.

About

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is a U.S. Forest Service campground located approximately 2 hours north of Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The campground is situated along Frogtown Creek at an elevation of 2,080 feet above sea level, under a dense forest of deciduous and evergreen trees. Twenty-three campsites are neatly arranged in two loops (upper and lower), with each loop having creek sites. The campground is part of a 650-acre area designated as the Desoto Falls Scenic Area. The primary attractions are two waterfalls along Frogtown Creek. This hike's relatively short, kid-friendly distance and moderate elevation change make it one of North Georgia's most popular waterfall hikes. The trail leads 0.25 miles to the lower falls and 0.75 miles to the upper falls, hiking through large exposed rock outcrops, beautiful rhododendron, and under enormous old-growth pine trees. The waterfall's observation deck makes a great spot for a mid-hike rest. Trout fishing is popular along Frogtown Creek. North Georgia is a playground for wildlife watchers, with abundant deer, turkey, bear, and small furbearers, as well as excellent bird watching opportunities. The climate offers all four seasons, with October bringing vibrant fall foliage displays. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area features hardwood coves, rushing waterfalls, creeks, and steep canyons crisscrossed with trails. Nearby attractions include Neels Gap and the Appalachian Trail (1.5 miles north), Brasstown Bald (Georgia's highest point at 4,784 feet), and several other waterfalls including Helton Creek Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, and Raven Cliffs Falls.

Directions

From Blairsville, take U.S. Highway 19/129 south for 17 miles to the campground entrance on the right. From Dahlonega, take Highway 19 north for 18 miles to the campground entrance on the left. From Cleveland, take Highway 19/129 north for 16 miles to the campground entrance on the left.

Nearby Campgrounds