How much does camping cost at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Desoto Falls Recreation Area are $10 - $40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Desoto Falls Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Desoto Falls Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Desoto Falls Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Desoto Falls Recreation Area has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Yes, Desoto Falls Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Desoto Falls Recreation Area: Campfires are permitted in grills only.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Desoto Falls Recreation Area have?

Desoto Falls Recreation Area has 23 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Desoto Falls Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Desoto Falls Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Desoto Falls Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Desoto Falls Recreation Area

4.28

420 reviews

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C+Report Card

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Georgia

Quick Facts

2,080 ft

Price

$10 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

During non-peak seas...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,080 ft

Price

$10 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

During non-peak seas...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Desoto Falls Recreation Area

$10.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

NonPeak Standard Nonelectric: $10.00; Standard non-electric double site: $40.00; Standard non-electric: $20.00; Tent Only non-electric: $20.00;...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$40.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

706-745-6928null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

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Desoto Falls Recreation Area

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Nearby places

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

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

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

Weather at Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Current alerts(8)

Be bear aware; keep all food in containers or locked inside a vehicle as much as possible. Remove all food from the area after eating and during nighttime hours. Dispose of garbage promptly in our bear proof garbage dumpster.
Discharging of firearms and fireworks is prohibited.
Do not leave fires unattended; they must be fully-extinguished and cold to the touch before check-out.
During non-peak season (November 1 - April 1), all water is turned off to the entire campground.

Best Time to Camp at Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery and reliably comfortable mountain weather — expect daytime highs in the mid-50s to low-70s°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F, with peak leaf color in October. Waterfalls and clear streams still run well from late summer rains, making hiking, photography, and fishing especially rewarding, while humidity and bugs drop off. Expect higher weekend crowds during peak color weeks, so book early for an October stay or aim for mid-September for similar conditions + Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for mild weather, vibrant trails and positive seasonal reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: During non-peak season (November 1 - April 1), all water is turned off to the entire campground.

About Desoto Falls Recreation Area

Desoto Falls Recreation Area sits in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest foothills, operated by the U.S. Forest Service with seasonal access during peak months. The campground serves as a base for waterfall hikes and stream fishing, offering tent sites, RV spots, primitive options, and group camping with flush and vault toilets, showers, and attentive camp hosts. Spacious sites and well-maintained trails draw families and fall-color seekers, though road noise and occasional drainage issues affect some spots.

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

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery and reliably comfortable mountain weather — expect daytime highs in the mid-50s to low-70s°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F, with peak leaf color in October. Waterfalls and clear streams still run well from late summer rains, making hiking, photography, and fishing especially rewarding, while humidity and bugs drop off. Expect higher weekend crowds during peak color weeks, so book early for an October stay or aim for mid-September for similar conditions + Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: January, February

Elevation2080 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested valley where Frogtown Creek runs through hardwood coves between mountain ridges. The namesake falls cascade through rock canyons within hiking distance of camp. Mixed deciduous and evergreen trees provide canopy cover over most sites. The creek pools and tumbles over rocks, close enough to several campsites that you can hear it from your tent. October brings peak leaf color across the ridges. Elevation keeps temperatures moderate even in summer.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodgings available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are specifically mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay: 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

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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

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

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.

Best CampsitesSites 14, 15, and 16 sit near the creek with less highway noise than upper loop spots. Site 16 is particularly spacious. Sites 1 and 7 offer more privacy from neighbors. Site 23 has room to spread out. Avoid sites closest to the road if you're sensitive to traffic sound. Several reviewers mention bringing earplugs.

Need help booking Desoto Falls Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

NOTE: There are no hookups or a dumpstation avaliable in the campground.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Hiking

Fishing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in grills only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10pm to 6am

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.'"

Cell CoverageCell service is generally spotty within the campground, with some users reporting no service at all. "Verizon does not have great service here—only 1 bar or no service at all."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

420 reviews

Satisfactory

Desoto Falls Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 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 420 reviews

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Desoto Falls Recreation Area

$10.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

NonPeak Standard Nonelectric: $10.00; Standard non-electric double site: $40.00; Standard non-electric: $20.00; Tent Only non-electric: $20.00;...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$40.00