Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Star4.56
386 reviews
FOREST SERVICE ROAD 37, SUCHES, GA 30572, USA
Family FriendlyStargazingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

2,953 ft

Price

$26 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area
$26.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range by season and site type: Standard Electric ($39/$33), Standard Nonelectric ($26/$50), Tent Only Nonelectric ($26), Group Shelter Electric...
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Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$39.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
706-747-3816LakeWinfieldScott@cfaia.org
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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 386 reviews

162 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomsspacioushiking

"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."

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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

Driving directionsFrom Blairsville, take U.S. 19/129 south for 10 miles. Turn right (west) on Georgia 180 for 7 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 37 at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area entrance. From Dahlonega, take U.S. 19 north for approximately 20 miles. Turn left (west) on Georgia 180 for 7 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 37 at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area entrance.
Roads leading to the campground involve curvy mountain terrain, and some sections may require experienced driving. Access roads are paved but steep in places, with loose gravel in the driveway leading to the cabin.
Nearby places
Suches, Georgia (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Blairsville, Georgia (16 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Dahlonega, Georgia (approximately 20 miles).
Nearby supplies
Suches, GA (5 miles) has a general store and fuel station. Blairsville, GA (16 miles) offers full-service grocery stores and shopping villages.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Experience the magic of four distinct seasons in this mountain paradise, where autumn transforms the forest into a blazing tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer nights bring refreshing cool breezes that make for perfect sleeping weather under the stars, while gentle mountain rains create a symphony on the lake's surface throughout the year. Winter visitors should note that some services may be limited, but the peaceful solitude and frost-kissed mornings offer their own special rewards.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 12% in GA

Peak season for swimming, hiking and fishing; reviewers favor summer visits.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Autumn offers 'blazing tapestry' of foliage and cooler weather — a highlighted season.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring brings cool weather, wildlife activity and good hiking conditions; well-regarded season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Reduced services mid-Nov to early April; limited accessibility and offerings in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 1, 2025 - July 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round with reduced services mid-November to early April. North Loop is available during this offseason.

About Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Nestled in a pristine mountain valley, Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its sparkling 18-acre lake and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering trees, parking your RV in one of the well-appointed sites, or settling into the cozy rental cabin, this mountain sanctuary offers the perfect basecamp for swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply drifting across the lake in a kayak as the sun sets behind the ridgeline.
The campground supports a variety of camping accommodations, including tent sites, RV sites, and a cabin. Primitive camping and group sites are also available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in at noon.
Check-out
Check-out at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights total per month.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables

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.
HikingMultiple trails originate from the campground, including the short 0.4-mile lakeshore trail, the 1-mile Jarrard Gap Trail, and the 2.7-mile Slaughter Creek Trail connecting to the Appalachian Trail. Reviewers praise the variety for all experience levels: 'Great day hiking to Blood Mountain.'
FishingFishing is permitted on Lake Winfield Scott, with opportunities for catfish, trout, perch, brim, and bass. Some reviews highlight the accessible fishing pier and the overall peaceful experience, but others report dissatisfaction due to unclear restrictions.
SwimmingSwimming is allowed in a designated area at the beach, supported by picnic tables and a bathhouse. One user noted safety concerns due to steps leading to the beach area.
BikingRoad biking is mentioned favorably in user reviews, with routes offering scenic views and manageable terrain. One reviewer said the area is 'excellent for biking.'
BoatingHand-powered and electric motor boats are allowed on Lake Winfield Scott, supported by a boat ramp and dock.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer, bear, turkey, and grouse are commonly sighted. Reviewers particularly note bear sightings and recommend 'being bear aware.'
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear sightings reported, requiring proper food storage and alertness. Gravel driveway near cabin may be slippery when wet.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area

Reviews

4.6
386 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% 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 386 reviews

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...
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Based on 386 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...
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Based on 386 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...
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Based on 386 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 386 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...
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Based on 386 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 12 is noted as a pull-through RV site with water and electric hookups. Site 2 is praised for its proximity to restrooms and privacy. Cabin renters frequently comment on the steep driveway and...
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Based on 386 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 386 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 386 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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