Tallulah River Campground
4.6550 reviews800 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Tallulah River Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Camping is $15/site/night; Interagency Senior/Golden Age Passports and Access Passes offer a 50% discount.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine banks of the Tallulah River at 2,080 feet elevation, this intimate campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its cathedral of towering pines and majestic hardwoods. Here, the gentle murmur of the river mingles with the whisper of mountain breezes, creating an idyllic basecamp for anglers casting for native trout and hikers exploring the nearby Coleman River Trail. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness tranquility.
The campground supports a mix of camping types, with 17 combined sites available. It accommodates tents and has three RV pull-through sites, though RV sizes are limited due to narrow roads.
Historical SignificanceFor over six decades, generations of families have returned to these riverbanks, creating memories that span lifetimes. This cherished campground has become woven into Georgia's rich outdoor heritage, where grandfathers have taught grandchildren to tie flies, and the fishing tales grow bigger with each passing year. The enduring appeal of this special place speaks to its timeless connection to Georgia's celebrated fishing and camping traditions.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons in this mountain paradise. Summer days unfold with comfortable temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, though the humidity reminds you you're still in Georgia. Autumn transforms the hardwood canopy into a spectacular display of color under crisp, dry skies. Winter brings a peaceful solitude, with occasional dustings of snow creating a wonderland among the pines. Spring awakens the forest with gentle rains and perfect camping temperatures, making every season an invitation to explore.
ElevationPerched at 2,080 feet in the North Georgia mountains, the campground offers a refreshing escape from the sweltering lowland heat. This sweet spot elevation delivers noticeably cooler temperatures and clearer air, making summer nights perfect for campfire stories and sleeping soundly to the symphony of the forest.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Tallulah River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its clear waters dancing over ancient stones while providing a natural soundtrack to your stay. Towering pines stretch skyward, their evergreen canopy mixing with native hardwoods to create a living cathedral. Morning mist rises from the river, while afternoon sunlight filters through the forest canopy, painting the campground in golden hues. This pristine riverside setting offers endless opportunities for quiet contemplation or active exploration.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, the campground occupies a special niche where mountain ecology meets riverside habitat at 2,080 feet elevation. The Tallulah River has carved its path through these ancient hills, creating a diverse ecosystem where mountain pines and hardwoods thrive. This unique geological position provides campers with the best of both worlds: mountain vistas and riverside relaxation in one of Georgia's most treasured national forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'deep' by a reviewer, allowing for a spacious setup.
Sites PrivacyCampsites provide a degree of privacy, with one user stating the sites are 'spacious and somewhat private,' and another mentioning, 'The sites are deep, removed from the road, and not on top of one another.'
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with direct river access for better views and proximity to fishing. Arrive early, ideally on a Thursday, to secure a spot.
Best CampsitesSites 2 and 11 are highlighted in user reviews. Site 2 is right on the river, while Site 11 offers a quieter experience away from other campers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time is mentioned, but occupancy must begin within 30 minutes of arrival.
Check-out
No specific check-out time is mentioned.
Stay Limit
14 day maximum stay limit per 30-day period. After accumulating 14 days, campers must leave Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest land for 30 days before returning.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed along the river, providing privacy and direct access to the water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, specific services are provided from March 22 through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations allowed; first-come, first-served only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll camping is first-come, first-served as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy is mentioned due to the absence of a reservation system.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming. The Coleman River Trail, located within walking distance, is a mile-long scenic hike. Fishing is a highlight, as the Tallulah River is routinely stocked with rainbow trout. The river also serves as a swimming spot, adding to the recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The Coleman River Trail is approximately 1 mile long and accessible from the campground. A reviewer noted, 'The Coleman River Scenic area is a very nice 1 mile each way hike...The entire walk is by the Coleman River.'Fishing
The Tallulah River is stocked with rainbow trout, making fishing a key attraction. Reviewers frequently praise the fishing opportunities, with one stating, 'My favorite trout river in GA.'Swimming
Swimming in the Tallulah River is available, though there are no designated swimming areas or facilities mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Minimal water sports opportunities, limited to swimming in the river.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must adhere to local fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears may be present; one reviewer mentioned seeing a bear during their hike. Motorhomes running compressors at night may disrupt the camping experience.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Emergency Services
Nearest site for gray or black water dumping is Moccasin Creek State Campground on Hwy 197 or Black Rock State Park. Emergency and medical services are not explicitly detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 22 through October 31 (service availability).
Trash and recyclingGarbage facilities are located within the campground, as noted by one reviewer.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the Tallulah River, which is routinely stocked with Rainbow Trout.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include loud neighbors, overflowing trash, and poorly maintained bathrooms, as noted by multiple users.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful by some users, but maintenance concerns regarding bathrooms were also noted.
Campground Map
800 Tallulah River Rd., Clayton, GA
Driving directionsTake U.S. 76 west from Clayton for 8 miles; turn right (north) on Persimmon Rd. for 5 miles; turn left (northwest) on Forest Service Road 70 for 1 mile to Tallulah River (another 3 miles to reach Tate Branch and another 5 miles to Sandy Bottom).
The road is paved until reaching the campground, after which it transitions to gravel roads. The gravel roads are described as passable even in a convertible, though reviews note they can be narrow in places.Nearby places
Clayton (Approximately 6.7 miles), Tate Branch (Approximately 3 miles), Sandy Bottom (Approximately 5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Clayton, GA (Approximately 7 miles) is likely the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials. No specific retailer details provided.
Camper Reviews
4.7
50 reviews
Tallulah River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene riverside setting and excellent trout fishing. While campers appreciate the limited amenities suitable for a rustic experience, some expressed displeasure with maintenance and overcrowding during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the campground's scenic beauty and tranquility, with comments such as 'Great “Go To” spot for years,' 'Very nice, clean campground by the Tallulah River,' and 'Beautiful...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include overcrowding, with one reviewer stating, 'Arrived on a Monday evening recently to a full campground.' Some users also raised concerns about the cleanliness and maintenance of...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend arriving early to secure a site, especially during weekends. One user suggested going on a Thursday to avoid overcrowding.
Based on 50 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is described as quieter in off-peak seasons, while summer months experience high demand. Fall offers a scenic experience with clear skies and the crisp smell of air off the water.
Based on 50 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Everything was very clean & quiet (except the sound of the river).' 2. 'The Coleman River Scenic area is a very nice 1 mile each way hike...The entire walk is by the Coleman River.' 3. 'Great...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 was noted to fit two vehicles well. Site 11 and others near it were mentioned as still being open by Friday evenings.
Based on 50 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited to wheelchair-friendly vault toilets. No other specific accessibility features were highlighted.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences were not explicitly discussed in the reviews.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025