Desoto Falls Recreation Area

4.43

778 reviews

null

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Georgia

Quick Facts

2,080 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,080 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Desoto Falls Recreation Area

$10.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by season and site type. Non-peak season rates are half price. Standard Nonelectric: $20 (peak season), $10 (non-peak season); Tent Only...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$40.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

706-745-6928null

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 778 reviews

489 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulspaciouswaterfriendly

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"Desoto Falls Recreation Area is highly rated for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails, particularly the waterfalls. However, many reviewers cite road noise, cleanliness issues with restrooms, and limited amenities as drawbacks."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

null

Desoto Falls Recreation Area

null

Driving directionsFrom Blairsville, GA take U.S. Highway 19/129 South for 17.0 miles and the campground entrance is on your right. From Dahlonega, GA take Highway 19 North for 18 miles and the entrance is on your left. From Cleveland, GA, take 19/129 North for 16 miles and the entrance to the campground is on your left.

The campground is located directly off US Highway 19/129, making it easily accessible. However, user reviews highlight significant road noise due to its proximity to a busy mountain road. The sharp turns and steep inclines may present navigation challenges, particularly for larger RVs or trailers.

Nearby places

Blairsville, GA: 17 miles (approx. 30 minutes)

Dahlonega, GA: 18 miles (approx. 30 minutes)

Cleveland, GA: 16 miles (approx. 25 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Closest gas station and general store: Turner’s Corner General Store, approximately 7 minutes away. Larger grocery stores are available in Cleveland and Blairsville, GA, both approximately 30 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Experience the full splendor of mountain seasons at Desoto Falls, where each time of year paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Summer brings warm, pleasant days perfect for creek-side camping and cool evening campfires. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber—making fall the photographer's favorite season. Winter offers a serene, crowd-free camping experience for the hardy adventurer, though water services hibernate until spring's return. The mild mountain climate ensures comfortable conditions for most of the year, with peak camping season delivering those perfect weather days that make memories last.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Warm pleasant days and creek access; popular and can be noisy and crowded in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall highly praised for vibrant foliage and mild weather—peak season for scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for mild weather and strong waterfall flows; highly rated seasonally.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Open Nov–Mar with limited amenities and no full services; quieter but not ideal for facilities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 1st - October 31st.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: April 1 - October 31 (full amenities available). Non-peak season: November 1 - March 31 (limited amenities).
Current Alerts: No current alerts.

About Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Nestled along the babbling waters of Frogtown Creek at 2,080 feet elevation, Desoto Falls Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain tranquility and adventure. This year-round mountain retreat features 23 thoughtfully placed campsites across two distinct loops—the peaceful upper loop and the creek-hugging lower loop—all enveloped by a stunning canopy of deciduous and evergreen trees. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic trails, or simply savoring a creekside picnic, this forest sanctuary offers an authentic escape into Georgia's mountain wilderness.

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is a versatile campground offering standard non-electric, tent-only, and group campsites, all without utility hookups.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of American heritage within the storied Chattahoochee National Forest, where ancient trails have connected communities and adventurers for generations. This campground serves as your gateway to paths that weave through the greater Appalachian Mountain network—the same routes that have witnessed centuries of exploration, from Cherokee hunting grounds to early settler passages. Today, these historic connections offer modern adventurers a chance to follow in the footsteps of those who came before, experiencing the timeless allure of Georgia's mountain country.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full splendor of mountain seasons at Desoto Falls, where each time of year paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Summer brings warm, pleasant days perfect for creek-side camping and cool evening campfires. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber—making fall the photographer's favorite season. Winter offers a serene, crowd-free camping experience for the hardy adventurer, though water services hibernate until spring's return. The mild mountain climate ensures comfortable conditions for most of the year, with peak camping season delivering those perfect weather days that make memories last.

ElevationPerched at 2,080 feet above sea level, this mountain haven offers the perfect elevation for those seeking refuge from summer's heat without venturing into harsh alpine conditions. The altitude creates an ideal microclimate where cool mountain breezes dance through the trees, morning mists linger over the creek, and evening temperatures invite cozy campfire gatherings. This sweet spot in the Blue Ridge provides just enough elevation to deliver that crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures that make for comfortable camping throughout the warmer months.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature showcases its most dramatic artistry. Towering hardwood forests create a living cathedral overhead, while the namesake waterfalls thunder through steep-walled canyons carved over millennia. The Blue Ridge Mountains wrap around the campground like ancient guardians, their slopes adorned with an ever-changing wardrobe—from spring's delicate wildflowers to summer's lush emerald canopy, autumn's fiery display, and winter's stark beauty. Frogtown Creek weaves through it all, its constant melody providing the soundtrack to your mountain adventure as it tumbles over rocks and pools in quiet eddies perfect for contemplation or play.

Geological RegionDiscover camping in the heart of Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, a magnificent section of the ancient Appalachian range that tells a story written in stone over hundreds of millions of years. The campground rests within a geological wonderland where hardwood-filled coves nestle between ridges, dramatic waterfalls cascade through time-carved canyons, and clear mountain streams have sculpted the landscape into a playground of natural beauty. This dynamic terrain, shaped by eons of wind, water, and weather, creates the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, offering everything from gentle creekside strolls to challenging ridge-top vistas within the greater Appalachian ecosystem.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Maximum stay: 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

Group sites accommodate larger groups, but specific limits on the number of people or vehicles are not detailed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are organized into two loops: upper and lower. The upper loop features vault toilets, while the lower loop offers flush toilets and showers.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability is higher during non-peak times.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation Fee: $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (after midnight the day prior) incur a fee equal to the first night's use fee. Modifications are possible with no additional fee for shortening or extending stays within the original reservation dates.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible campsites, flush toilets, pit toilets, drinking water, and hiking trails. Some trails feature observation platforms that accommodate a wide range of physical abilities.

Site SizeSites are spacious, with large tent pads and parking areas. Specific sites like #16 and #23 are noted for being roomy and accommodating.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some campsites, such as #1 and #7, are described as "private," while others closer to the loops or near the road offer less seclusion.

Total Campsites23 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites near the road (e.g., sites 5-6) due to high noise levels. Creekside sites (e.g., 14-16) offer better views and tranquility.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Desoto Falls Recreation Area offers year-round recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The campground is part of a scenic area with trails leading to two waterfalls, Frogtown Creek, and opportunities for picnicking.

HikingThe campground features two waterfall trails—0.25 miles to the lower falls and 0.75 miles to the upper falls. The trails are well-maintained, relatively easy, and suitable for kids and pets. Several reviewers mentioned the trails as a highlight: "Both have a viewing platform at the bottom of falls," and "The trail hikes through several large exposed rock outcrops, beautiful rhododendron."

FishingFishing is permitted in Frogtown Creek, which runs through the campground. Some reviewers mentioned fishing opportunities, though no specific details about fish species or success rates were provided.

Wildlife viewingThe area is a haven for wildlife watchers, with frequent sightings of deer, turkey, bear, and small mammals. One reviewer mentioned: "North Georgia is a playground for wildlife watchers." However, campers are reminded to store food securely as bears are known to visit the area.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad noise from US Highway 19/129 affects campsites near the entrance. Bears are present; all food must be secured. Poison oak and water snakes noted in user reviews.

Active AlertsNo current alerts.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated grills and fire rings. Fires must be extinguished before check-out.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital: Union General Hospital in Blairsville, GA (approx. 30 minutes). Police station: Blairsville Police Department (approx. 30 minutes). Ranger station: Chattahoochee National Forest Ranger Station.

Trash & RecyclingA dumpster is centrally located near site #3 for trash disposal. There are no individual trash or recycling bins at campsites, and users must walk or drive their trash to the dumpster. One review noted: "Campers in the far loop kept their trash in garbage bags at the campsites all weekend, which defeats the purpose of trash containment in 'Bear habitat.'"

Water FeaturesLocated along Frogtown Creek with hiking access to upper and lower Desoto Falls.

Camp HostHosts Brenda and Doug receive praise for their friendliness and maintaining campground cleanliness. Hosts enforce rules and assist with reservations.

Weather at Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Reviews

4.4

778 reviews

Recommended

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is highly rated for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails, particularly the waterfalls. However, many reviewers cite road noise, cleanliness issues with restrooms, and limited amenities as drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 778 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the beautiful waterfall trails, friendly and accommodating camp hosts, spacious campsites, and a peaceful setting. "The trails to the waterfalls are well-maintained and perfect for...

Based on 778 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include excessive road noise from nearby highways, especially at night, cleanliness of vault toilets, and the lack of water and amenities during the off-season. "The restrooms were...

Based on 778 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend booking sites away from the road to minimize noise. Sites #14, #15, and #16 are noted for their proximity to the creek and reduced highway disturbance. Bring earplugs if you're a...

Based on 778 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are the most praised seasons due to mild weather and the vibrant foliage. Winter camping is quieter but lacks water facilities. Summer is popular but can be noisy due to road traffic...

Based on 778 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The waterfall’s newly built observation deck makes a great spot for a mid-hike rest." "Showers are hot and clean, but the vault toilets need attention." "The sites next to the creek are absolutely...

Based on 778 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites near the creek, such as #14, #15, and #16, are highly recommended. Sites close to the highway, like #1, #2, and #6, are criticized for noise. Double site #14 is highlighted as spacious and...

Based on 778 reviews

Accessibility Features

Sites are generally accessible, with trails and observation decks suitable for individuals with disabilities. Some reviewers noted the campground's effort to provide accessible amenities, but more...

Based on 778 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and many reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly policies. Leashes are mandatory, and dogs are welcome on the hiking trails. "Our dog loved the swimming holes," and "The trails are...

Based on 778 reviews

0 review