How much does camping cost at Low Gap Campground?

Camping fees at Low Gap Campground range from $12/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Low Gap Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Low Gap Campground 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.

What is the best time to visit Low Gap Campground?

Low Gap Campground is open March 15, 2025 - December 15, 2025. 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 Low Gap Campground?

Low Gap Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Low Gap Campground have?

Low Gap Campground has 13 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Low Gap Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Low Gap Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Low Gap Campground?

Low Gap Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Low Gap Campground?

Popular activities at Low Gap Campground include Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Low Gap Campground

4.14

110 reviews

190 Low Gap Rd., Helen, GA

Featured in:Primitive Camping Georgia

Quick Facts

1,800 ft

Price

$12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,800 ft

Price

$12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Low Gap Campground

$12.00 - $12.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees are $12 per site per night. Interagency Senior and Access Passes as well as Golden Age and Access Passports are accepted, offering a 50%...

Standard Site Fee$12.00

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USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

190 Low Gap Rd., Helen, GA

Low Gap Campground

190 Low Gap Rd., Helen, GA

Nearby places

Helen, GA (approximately 5-6 miles)

Nearby supplies

Helen, GA, approximately 5-6 miles away, offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Driving directionsFrom Helen, GA, take State Rt. 17/75 north 0.8 miles to State Rt. 75 Alt. Turn left onto Rt. 75 Alt and then turn right almost immediately onto Poplar Stump Rd. Go 4.3 miles to campground. NOTE: Poplar Stump Rd. changes to gravel in 1.6 miles and becomes River Rd. (Forest Rt. 44) in 2.2 miles. At this point, the road continues as gravel and becomes single-lane, rough and winding.

The road leading to Low Gap Campground includes gravel and single-lane sections, as well as rough and winding terrain. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during adverse weather conditions.

Weather at Low Gap Campground

Current alert: Currently closed for winter; reopening March 15, 2025.

Best Time to Camp at Low Gap Campground

Spring is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs run 55-70°F, mornings dip into the low 40s and 50s, and the creek flows high from snowmelt and rain. Rhododendron and mountain laurel put on their show in late spring. Crowds are lighter than fall leaf season, so trails and creekside sites stay quiet. Summer brings warmth and humidity, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Fall offers comfortable temperatures but draws more visitors. Winter sees occasional snow and much colder temps, transforming the campground into a stark, quiet retreat for anyone willing to rough it.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open and recommended in warmer months for fishing and relaxation despite heat potential.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 15, 2025 - December 15, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from March 15 to December 15, 2025.

About Low Gap Campground

Low Gap Campground is a 13-site primitive campground along Low Gap Creek in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, about 15 minutes from Helen. Sites cost $12 per night and accommodate tents and small RVs up to 28 feet. The campground sits at 1,800 feet in the Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area, bordering the Mark Trail Wilderness. Reviews praise the scenic creekside setting and fishing but consistently mention poor maintenance and the absence of a camp host.

Low Gap Campground offers a rustic and primitive camping experience with 13 developed sites. It is well-suited for tent camping and small RVs, but lacks modern amenities.

Weather and SeasonsSpring is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs run 55-70°F, mornings dip into the low 40s and 50s, and the creek flows high from snowmelt and rain. Rhododendron and mountain laurel put on their show in late spring. Crowds are lighter than fall leaf season, so trails and creekside sites stay quiet. Summer brings warmth and humidity, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Fall offers comfortable temperatures but draws more visitors. Winter sees occasional snow and much colder temps, transforming the campground into a stark, quiet retreat for anyone willing to rough it.

ElevationPerched at 1,800 feet above sea level, Low Gap Campground enjoys the sweet spot of mountain elevation. Here, summer temperatures remain noticeably cooler than the valleys below, offering natural air conditioning courtesy of the altitude. The elevated position grants visitors stunning vantage points of the surrounding wilderness, where morning mists rise from the hollows and evening light paints the ridgelines gold.

Natural Features and SceneryLow Gap Creek runs through the campground, dividing the sites and providing the main attraction for anglers and anyone who likes falling asleep to moving water. Several sites sit directly along the creek. The forest canopy is dominated by old white pines, with thick understory of rhododendron and mountain laurel that bloom in late spring. A low-water bridge connects sites 8-13 to the rest of the campground. The surrounding Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area and Mark Trail Wilderness mean you're camping in genuinely wild country, good for wildlife viewing if you're patient.

Geological RegionNestled within the pristine Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area and bordering the Mark Trail Wilderness, Low Gap Campground sits at the heart of some of Georgia's most treasured wild lands. This protected landscape showcases the Southern Appalachian ecosystem at its finest, where ancient White pines tower above dense thickets of native rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. Low Gap Creek, cutting through this botanical wonderland, has carved its path over countless millennia, creating the gentle valley that cradles the campground today.

Scenic ViewsMost campsites are located along Low Gap Creek, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding forest.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo formal lodging options, such as cabins or lodges, are available. This campground is strictly for tent or RV camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in information not specified.

Check-out

Check-out information not specified.

Stay Limit

The maximum stay is 14 days within any 30-day period. Campers must leave Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest land for 30 days before returning.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThirteen sites total, split by Low Gap Creek. Sites 8-13 require crossing a low-water bridge to access. Spacing and privacy vary. The campground is small enough that you'll hear your neighbors, but creek-adjacent sites feel more secluded than those set back in the trees.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is by reservation only. There is no walk-up/first-come-first-serve availability.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled via Recreation.gov following standard guidelines. Specific penalty deadlines are not detailed.

AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no other specific accessibility features are mentioned.

Site SizeSite sizes are not specified but are described as accommodating tents and small RVs (up to 28 feet).

PrivacySites are described as being close to the creek, providing picturesque views, and some level of privacy. However, the level of seclusion varies.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesBring a high-clearance vehicle due to the road conditions. Sites along the creek are ideal for anglers and those seeking tranquility.

Best CampsitesCreekside sites get the most love in reviews for their water access and views. Sites 8-13 sit across the low-water bridge, which adds a bit of separation from the main campground. Specific site numbers aren't called out often, but if you want to fish or wake up to the sound of the creek, prioritize anything marked as creekside when you reserve.

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Amenities available

No Drinking Water Available at Low Gap Campground. Visitors should be aware that drinking water is no longer available at Low Gap Campground. The campground well system is being decommissioned due to the high cost of maintaining and operating the aging infrastructure. Visitors planning to camp at Low Gap once it reopens should plan to bring their own potable water for drinking, cooking and other needs.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Low Gap Campground provides opportunities for fishing, camping, and enjoying nature. The creek running through the campground is popular for trout fishing, and the area is surrounded by wildlife, making it suitable for hunting (in designated areas) and wildlife viewing. Nearby, the alpine village of Helen, Georgia, offers additional recreational options.

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity has been frequently reported. Visitors are strongly advised to secure food, trash, and other items to prevent encounters. The rough gravel road leading to the campground poses a challenge for some vehicles.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are unavailable. Vault toilets, described as chemical flush, are provided, but reviews indicate varying conditions of cleanliness and usability.

Food Storage RequiredBear boxes were removed in recent years. Visitors are advised to pack and store food carefully.

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.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are in Helen, GA, approximately 5-6 miles away. This includes medical facilities and police.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans and bear boxes have been removed. Campers must pack out all trash. No recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated adjacent to Low Gap Creek, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and scenic views.

Camp HostThere is no camp host on-site based on recent reviews.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is not explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest the campground is remote and away from civilization, which might imply limited service.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

110 reviews

Satisfactory

Low Gap Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Low Gap Campground is described as remote, scenic, and ideal for fishing and relaxation. However, recurring issues include poor maintenance, the absence of a camp host, and mismanagement of amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 110 reviews

What Campers Love

Many visitors praise the campground for its scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to Low Gap Creek. Several sites are located along the creek, enhancing the camping experience. Fishing...

Based on 110 reviews

Common Concerns

Common concerns include incorrect Google Maps directions, poorly maintained restrooms, lack of trash management facilities, absence of potable water, and the removal of bear boxes. Some reviewers...

Based on 110 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #2 mentioned as disappointing due to trash left behind. Sites 8-13 require fording the creek to access but are considered scenic.

Based on 110 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own firewood and potable water. Use turn-by-turn directions from the national forest website rather than relying on Google Maps. Avoid leaving food out to deter bears.

Based on 110 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is highly recommended during warmer months for fishing and outdoor relaxation. However, it is closed in winter, and some reviewers noted that it can get crowded during peak times like...

Based on 110 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of the best campgrounds I've been to. About 90% of sites are along the river, which is pretty freaking awesome." - David Hops. "The address is wrong. If you are looking for this place, enter...

Based on 110 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no additional accessibility features were noted.

Based on 110 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not provide specific details about pet policies, though one noted an interaction with a dog and a camp host in the past.

Based on 110 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers who want stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout practically at their doorstep. Sites 8-13 across the low-water bridge sit closest to the creek and feel the most removed from neighbors. Spring weekdays are the move: cooler temps, lighter crowds, high water.

Skip if

No potable water on-site is a hard stop for campers who don't plan ahead. Vault toilets get poor reviews and no host means they stay that way. Google Maps sends drivers the wrong way, so if navigating to a remote forest road sounds stressful, this one isn't worth the hassle.

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Campgrounds

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Low Gap Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Low Gap Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Located within the Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area and veiled by the Mark Trail Wilderness. This 13-site developed campground is as close as it gets to a dispersed camping experience with amenities. This clandestine campground is best known for its plethora of opportunities in camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, and simply basking in the light of the natural world. Low Gap is another one of our campgrounds located only a few miles from Georgia's much loved vacation destination, the alpine village of Helen, Georgia. A trip to this campground is sure to make memories, so be sure to pack a camera and take some home with you on film!</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 1,800 ft. The campground, located adjacent to Low Gap Creek, is comprised of White pine, rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. The creek bisects the campground - accessing sites 8 through 13 requires fording the creek and driving over a low water bridge. The campground is a favorite location for anglers fishing the Low Gap Creek. Each campsite has a lantern post.

Seasons & access

Open March 22 through October 31

Facilities

The vault is a chemical flush toilet.

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel.

Directions

From Helen, GA, take State Rt. 17/75 north 0.8 miles to State Rt. 75 Alt. Turn left onto Rt. 75 Alt and then turn right almost immediately onto Poplar Stump Rd. Go 4.3 miles to campground. NOTE: Poplar Stump Rd. changes to gravel in 1.6 miles and becomes River Rd. (Forest Rt. 44) in 2.2 miles. At this point, the road continues as gravel and becomes single-lane, rough and winding.

National Forest: Chattahoochee National Forest
Ranger District: Chattooga River
Elevation: 1800
Rate: $12 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: 03/15 – 12/17