Open

Open for dispersed camping year-round. Campfire restrictions were lifted May 4, 2026. The 14-day stay limit applies, with a 30-day wait required before returning to the same site.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Road Maintenance: West Cowpen Road (FSR 17)

Temporary delays can be expected on West Cowpen Road (FSR 17) from 10/17/2026 through 11/13/2026 due to road maintenance.  Road maintenance will be conducted from the GA DNR West Cowpen Check Station on Old Ga Highway 2 to its intersection with Mill Creek Road (FSR 630).  Be aware of heavy…

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Prescribed fire on Oconee Ranger District at Jasper County

#BurnAlerts – Oconee Ranger District The Oconee Ranger District will apply prescribed fire over the next several weeks to improve timber stands either before or after operations. The burn units are located in Putnam, Jasper, Jones and Greene counties. Smoke may be visible along adjacent…

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Muskrat Road, FS 218, Temporarily Closed

Forest Service Road 218, Muskrat, is closed due to a road cave-in after recent heavy rain.  Visitors may still access the parking lot for Windy Gap trail system.

About

Padena Dispersed Area is located in Fannin County within the Blue Ridge Ranger District of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The area provides an undeveloped, backcountry camping experience for those seeking solitude and a more rugged outdoor adventure in the North Georgia mountains. As a dispersed camping area, Padena offers no developed facilities or amenities. There are no toilets, potable water, trash services, or established campsites. Campers are expected to bring all necessary supplies and pack out everything they bring in. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days, after which campers must move at least 30 days before returning to the same location. The forest allows campfires in designated areas when restrictions are not in effect. Visitors should always check current fire conditions before their trip and practice responsible fire safety. The area is managed by the Blue Ridge Ranger District, which covers Fannin and several other North Georgia counties.

Directions

From Blue Ridge, GA, take US 515 north for 4 miles to GA Hwy. 60; turn right and go 0.5 miles to stop sign. Turn left, go 1.5 miles to the town of Morganton, GA. In Morganton, turn right on County Road 616 for 1 mile.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets No
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length —
Max Trailer Length —
Big Rig Friendly —
Pull Through Sites —

Contact

Phone +1 (706) 745-6928

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

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