Woodring Campground
4.25180 reviews5026 Woodring Branch Rd, Ellijay, GA, 30540
Quick Facts
Price
$20 - $42/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
42 campsites
Season
Peak season operates...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20 - $42/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
42 campsites
Season
Peak season operates...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsWoodring Campground
$20.00 - $42.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Electric Sites are $36-$42 per night. Tent Only Nonelectric Sites are $26 per night. Group Tent Area Nonelectric Sites are $20 per night....
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Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$56.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider706-276-6050Oliver.P.Craig@usace.army.mil
What Campers Say
4.25
Satisfactory
Based on 180 reviews
114 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciouslake
Some mention
noise
"Woodring Campground is highly regarded for its scenic lake views, peaceful environment, and clean facilities. However, some controversies have emerged, with a few reviews alleging discriminatory treatment by staff. Many visitors praise the friendly hosts and well-maintained sites."
Fees & Passes at Woodring Campground
$20 - $42/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations are allowed up to the day before arrival but incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first nig...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website.
Best Time to Camp at Woodring Campground
Spring arrives at Woodring Branch like a gentle awakening, with dogwoods blooming and temperatures perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, creating ideal conditions for campfire gatherings and crisp morning paddles. While summer brings warm days that invite endless swimming and water sports, cooling lake breezes whisper through the campground each evening, offering natural relief from Georgia's heat. Savvy campers often choose the shoulder seasons to avoid both crowds and insects, discovering the campground at its most serene.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Peak season operates from May 23 to September 6, 2025. Closing earlier in past years has caused frustration among users.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts noted.
About Woodring Campground
Nestled within a canopy of ancient hardwoods, Woodring Branch Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite offers glimpses of shimmering Carters Lake through the trees, while full-service amenities—including flush toilets, hot showers, and electric hookups—ensure your wilderness retreat doesn't mean roughing it. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line from the shoreline, or exploring miles of scenic trails by foot or bike, this lakeside haven provides the ideal basecamp for Blue Ridge Mountain adventures. Families will appreciate the playground and convenient dump station, making extended stays both comfortable and carefree.
Woodring Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, including sites for tents, RVs, and group camping. The campground caters to visitors seeking both basic and developed camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself stands as a modern gateway to outdoor recreation, it serves as your portal to exploring the rich heritage of North Georgia's Blue Ridge region, where Cherokee history and Appalachian culture converge.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives at Woodring Branch like a gentle awakening, with dogwoods blooming and temperatures perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, creating ideal conditions for campfire gatherings and crisp morning paddles. While summer brings warm days that invite endless swimming and water sports, cooling lake breezes whisper through the campground each evening, offering natural relief from Georgia's heat. Savvy campers often choose the shoulder seasons to avoid both crowds and insects, discovering the campground at its most serene.
ElevationPerched at the gentle slopes leading to Carters Lake, the campground offers varied terrain that creates natural privacy between sites while providing those coveted water views that make mountain lake camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from one of Georgia's most pristine mountain lakes, where 3,200 acres of crystal-clear water stretch before you, embraced by 62 miles of completely undeveloped shoreline—a rarity in today's world. The Blue Ridge Mountains create a dramatic backdrop, their ancient peaks standing sentinel over this aquatic jewel. From your campsite among the towering oaks and pines, you'll discover why visitors consistently describe this place as a peaceful sanctuary, where the only sounds are birdsong by day and gentle waves lapping the shore by night.
Geological RegionWoodring Branch Campground sits within the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia, where ancient geological forces created the perfect basin for Carters Lake. This 3,200-acre mountain reservoir, cradled by weathered peaks and valleys carved over millennia, boasts an remarkable 62 miles of pristine, undeveloped shoreline—a testament to careful preservation that allows visitors to experience the landscape much as nature intended.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, showers, and trails are available. However, some reviews note that lake access can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues due to the steep banks.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some accommodating large RVs up to 30’. Specific sites like #21 and #35 are noted for their spacious layouts.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Reviews highlight that some sites are very private, such as Site #42, while others, like Site #33, have limited privacy.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 20 praised for its shaded setup and private beach access. Site 35 noted for its stunning lake view.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsite occupancy is limited to a maximum of 8 guests, 2 vehicles, and 1 boat.
Groups
Group camping sites are available and include space for multiple tents. Noted for their privacy and mountain views, but some areas may have steep access.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are laid out close to the lake, often offering water views. Terrain is steep and densely wooded, providing a secluded yet challenging environment.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season operates from May 23 to September 6, 2025. Closing earlier in past years has caused frustration among users.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly detailed. User reviews mention self-check-in procedures at the gatehouse.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to the day before arrival but incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Modifications allowed without fees for extending/shortening within original reservation dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Woodring Campground can enjoy a diverse range of activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and mountain biking. The area offers both recreational water activities and nature-based options such as wildlife viewing and hiking scenic trails.
Hiking
The campground features trails like the Amadahy Trail, a 3.5-mile loop suitable for beginners with flat to rolling terrain. Scenic views of Carters Lake and diverse plant and animal life make these trails appealing to families.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Carters Lake. Anglers can catch bass, crappie, walleye, bream, and catfish. While steep terrain limits bank fishing, six boat ramps provide lake access.Swimming
A designated swimming area is available within the campground. Some users noted that the nearby beach could use additional maintenance to improve cleanliness.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the campground's easy-to-moderate trails, including the Amadahy Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake.Boating
The campground includes two boat ramps for easy access to Carters Lake. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, and recreational boating.Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities to view local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. The natural surroundings contribute to a peaceful environment.Beach activities
Although designated beach areas exist, some user reviews mentioned that the beach facilities could be cleaner and better maintained.Winter Activities
Limited or no winter activities as the campground is only open seasonally during late spring and summer.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the campground's lakeside location.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours enforced; user reviews describe noise disturbances from late-night vehicles and speed bumps.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep terrain may challenge accessibility. Wildlife encounters with yellow jackets and a bear were reported. Poison ivy noted by users.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather at Woodring Campground
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Ellijay, GA, approximately 11 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection points are available. Some reviews noted occasional issues with overflowing dumpsters and lack of frequent garbage collection.
Proximity to water featuresMost sites offer direct or close access to Carters Lake. A small beach and boat ramps are available.
Common complaintsLimited privacy at certain sites, steep terrain for lake access, cleanliness issues in bathrooms, noise from late-night vehicles despite gate closure policies.
HostHosts receive mixed reviews, with some highly praising their friendliness and helpfulness while others cite negative interactions.
Campground Map
5026 Woodring Branch Rd, Ellijay, GA, 30540
Driving directionsFrom Atlanta, take I-75 north to Exit 293; follow Highway 411 north. Turn right on Highway 136, then left on old Highway 411. Turn right on Highway 282/76. Campground is located 4.5 miles off Highway 282. From Ellijay, GA, take Highway 282/76 west for 11 miles to the access road and follow signs to the campground.
The campground is accessed via a long and twisty entrance road (approximately 3 miles) with low tree branches and a low bridge (13'7") on Hwy 76/Old Hwy 411. This may be challenging for larger RVs.Nearby places
Ellijay, GA: 11 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Atlanta, GA: 70 miles (approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
No grocery store is located near the campground
visitors often travel to Ellijay, GA for supplies. Firewood is not sold onsite.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
180 reviews
Woodring Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Woodring Campground is highly regarded for its scenic lake views, peaceful environment, and clean facilities. However, some controversies have emerged, with a few reviews alleging discriminatory treatment by staff. Many visitors praise the friendly hosts and well-maintained sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 180 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly noted positives include the cleanliness of the campground, friendly hosts, and scenic lake views. Many visitors appreciated the spacious and private campsites.
Based on 180 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include issues with bathroom cleanliness, lack of firewood sales, and overcrowded or poorly maintained beach areas. A few reviews mention discriminatory behavior by staff, although other...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring firewood and adequate supplies, as there is no camp store on-site. Choose campsites like #20, #35, or #42 for better views and privacy. Be cautious of steep terrain if you have mobility issues.
Based on 180 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground operates seasonally, and most positive reviews highlight summer visits. Some visitors expressed frustration with the short open season, noting that fall camping would also be ideal.
Based on 180 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The relative privacy of our campsite made camping especially pleasant." - Jen W. "Beautiful wooded lakeside campsites!" - Judy A. "Friendly staff and clean facilities." - Jonathan Seiber.
Based on 180 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites #35 and #42 are praised for their lake views and privacy. Site #12 received complaints about its narrow layout and safety concerns. Group sites are noted for privacy but may involve steep walks.
Based on 180 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some campsites and facilities are accessible, but steep paths to the lake may pose challenges. One user noted that the campsite was manageable for a stroke victim.
Based on 180 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but issues with unrestrained dogs have been reported. Be mindful of leash requirements to ensure a safe environment for all campers.
Based on 180 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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