How much does camping cost at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area range from $26-$125/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Lake Winfield Scott 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 Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area has 19 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 Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is open January 01 to November 01. 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 Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

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

How many campsites does Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area have?

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area has 31 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lake Winfield Scott 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 Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.50

290 reviews

FOREST SERVICE ROAD 37, SUCHES, GA 30572, USA

Top 12% in GASummer

Great for GroupsSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Georgia#1 Mountain Camping Georgia#3 Swimming Camping Georgia +13 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,953 ft

Price

$26 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,953 ft

Price

$26 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

$26.00 - $125.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $125.00; GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $100.00; GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC: $50.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $80.00; STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$80.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

706-747-3816LakeWinfieldScott@cfaia.org

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

FOREST SERVICE ROAD 37, SUCHES, GA 30572, USA

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

FOREST SERVICE ROAD 37, SUCHES, GA 30572, USA

Nearby places

Suches, Georgia (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)

Blairsville, Georgia (16 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Dahlonega, Georgia (approximately 20 miles).

Weather at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Current alerts(3)

Learn more about the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Only electric motor boats allowed on Lake Winfield Scott
Visitor maps for the forest can be obtained by calling the Forest Service office in Blairsville, Georgia at 706-745-6928 or by clicking here

Best Time to Camp at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall delivers peak scenery and comfortable weather — expect crisp, clear days with daytime highs typically in the mid-50s to low 70s (°F) and nights dropping into the 30s–40s, especially in October and early November. Leaf color on the surrounding ridges reaches vibrant golds, reds, and oranges, making hiking, photography, and scenic drives outstanding; fishing and wildlife viewing are also excellent as animals prepare for winter. Weekdays are pleasantly quiet while weekends can be busy, so plan Peak months: October, September, November, June

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in GA

Summer is most popular: ideal for swimming, hiking and fishing per reviews and peak season notes.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to November 01. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area sits in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest foothills near Suches, Georgia, operated by the Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association. The campground offers spacious tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, plus cabins and group camping options, all centered around a mountain lake. Visitors hike forest trails, fish and boat on the lake, and swim from the shore, with fall bringing vivid leaf color across the surrounding ridges.

The campground supports a variety of camping accommodations, including tent sites, RV sites, and a cabin. Primitive camping and group sites are also available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers peak scenery and comfortable weather — expect crisp, clear days with daytime highs typically in the mid-50s to low 70s (°F) and nights dropping into the 30s–40s, especially in October and early November. Leaf color on the surrounding ridges reaches vibrant golds, reds, and oranges, making hiking, photography, and scenic drives outstanding; fishing and wildlife viewing are also excellent as animals prepare for winter. Weekdays are pleasantly quiet while weekends can be busy, so plan Peak months: October, September, November, June

Elevation2953 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a mountain valley surrounded by forested ridges. The 18-acre lake sits at the center, fed by mountain springs. Towering hardwoods and pines shade most sites. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears roam the area. Cooper Creek flows from the lake through the Southern Appalachian terrain. One reviewer described it as "beautiful forested campground, plenty of room between spacious campsites, great hiking, a nice lake."

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin accommodates up to 12 people and features six twin beds and three double beds. It includes electricity, water, a kitchen, and a living area with a wood stove. Reviews of the cabin are mixed, with some praising its size and proximity to the lake while criticizing its cleanliness. One reviewer detailed: 'The cabin is along a road, and it does not have a view of the lake. The fire pit is a great place to cook out.'

Programs & ActivitiesNo explicit mention of cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights total per month.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site type.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate large parties, but reviews indicate issues with the condition of tent pads and limited communication about firewood rules.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or via phone.

AccessibilityAccessible fishing pier, handicap-accessible trails, and restrooms are available, although some reviews indicate limited signage and difficulties accessing features.

Site SizeSites described include tent pads, RV pull-throughs, and group camping areas. Reviews mention spacious sites with varying levels of privacy. Specific mentions include 'tent pads were graveled to help with drainage,' and 'RV sites 14 & 12 require leveling blocks.

PrivacySites are generally well-spaced for privacy. One user noted, 'The campsites are large, level, and well spaced apart, but some are more private than others.

Total Campsites31 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #10 and #11 in South Loop are near restrooms and quieter due to low traffic. Cabin offers privacy but requires cleaning supplies.

Best CampsitesSites 12 and 13 on the South Loop get high marks for hookups and proximity to facilities. Reviewers note that campsites are generally spacious and well-spaced, though privacy varies. Site 14 and 12 require leveling blocks for RVs. Tent pads use gravel for drainage.

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

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Amenities available

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area provides a wide array of amenities including a rental cabin with electricity and water, tent and RV camping sites, showers, flush and vault toilets, grills, picnic tables, lantern posts, and a bathhouse at the beach area. However, the campground lacks a dump station, though Vogel State Park nearby has one available for a nominal fee. Verified water and electric hookups are available at sites 12, 13, 14, and 15.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area offers diverse recreational activities such as swimming, hiking, fishing, and boating. Wildlife viewing is common, and visitors also engage in star gazing and cultural experiences.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

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 PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are available at the beach area, but some reviews complain about overflowing bins at specific sites like the pavilion. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

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

4.5

290 reviews

Recommended

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area receives high praise for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and amenities, but some reviews highlight issues with staff behavior, maintenance, and accessibility.

Review Summaries

Based on 290 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 290 reviews.

Site 2Loved
Site 2 is praised for its proximity to restrooms and privacy.
Site 12Mentioned
Site 12 is noted as a pull-through RV site with water and electric hookups.

What Campers Love

Highlights include spacious campsites, clean restrooms, helpful camp hosts, and excellent trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. One reviewer stated, 'Beautiful forested campground, plenty of...

Based on 290 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve staff rudeness, cleanliness issues in the cabin, and inconsistencies in fee communication. A reviewer noted, 'The tent pads are very unlevel and are fairly small for today's...

Based on 290 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring cleaning supplies if staying at the cabin, as some reviewers noted dirty furniture and dishes. Firewood must be purchased locally, and visitors should prepare for no cell service. Leveling...

Based on 290 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, offering ideal conditions for swimming, hiking, and fishing. Fall provides stunning foliage and cooler weather. Winter experiences limited accessibility.

Based on 290 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Hot showers were adequate.' 'The lake is amazing with stunning views of the sky at night.' 'Beautiful forested campground, plenty of room between spacious campsites, great hiking.' 'The cabin was...

Based on 290 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features include a handicap fishing pier and accessible trails, but signage is reportedly lacking. One reviewer stated, 'Clean with handicap accessibility!'

Based on 290 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and reviews generally highlight positive experiences, though one incident involved a loose dog causing discomfort among campers.

Based on 290 reviews

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Go if

You want a well-appointed mountain lake base camp with hookups, swimming access, and forest trails near Suches.

Skip if

You need a dump station on-site or prefer campgrounds with consistently maintained roads and facilities.

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Campgrounds

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is a destination recreation location situated high in a mountain valley.  The recreation area offers  year-round recreation opportunities including camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming and hiking centered around the beautiful 18-acre lake.  The campground is divided into a north loop and a south loop.</p><p> </p>

About the campground

The elevation is 2,600 ft. The campground is comprised of two loops, one of which is adjacent to Lake Winfield Scott. It was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. There is abundance of dogwood and rhododendrons. Rhododendrons are especially prolific along creek where some walk-in tent sites are located. Interpretive programs offered on weekends. Consider a day trip to Helton Creek Falls, 11 miles from the campground. Easy hike, about 0.6 miles round trip - GPS Coordinates: N34 45.227, W83 53.753

Seasons & access

North Loop - Open year round with limited services during winter South Loop - Open May 15 through October 31

Facilities

Lake Winfield Scott is 18 acres. Beach is grass and sand. Power boats are limited to electric motors. Hiking: Jarrard Gap - 1.2 miles Slaughter Gap - 2.7 miles Winfield Scott Shore Trail (part is paved) - 1 mile Fishing: Bream, Crappie, catfish and stocked Rainbow trout. There is wheelchair friendly fishing pier.

Water activities

Lake Winfield Scott is 18 acres. Beach is grass and sand. Power boats are limited to electric motors.

RV information

Some parking aprons are paved, some are gravel.

Directions

From Blairsville, GA, take US Rt 19/129 south 4.9 miles to Lake Winfield Scott sign (State Rt. 180 - Wolf Pen Gap Rd.). Turn right onto State Rt. 180 and go 6.8 miles to Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area sign. Turn left at sign into campground.

National Forest: Chattahoochee National Forest
Ranger District: Blue Ridge
Elevation: 2600
Rate: $18 per day - single Additional $12 surcharge for electric hook-up (no discount) $36 per day - double NOTE: Fees may be reduced during winter; check with ranger district office.
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: Yearlong - North Loop Only