Smithgall Woods

Star4.44
25 reviews
61 TSALAKI TRAIL, HELEN, Georgia, 30545, United States
Peace & QuietFishing

Quick Facts

1,624 ft

Price

$400 - $1000/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Georgia State Parks site

Official Website
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Smithgall Woods
$400.00 - $1,000.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Cabin prices range from $400-$1000 per night according to user reviews. Fishing requires appointments and may have associated reservation fees.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 25 reviews

750 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulhikingwell-maintained

"User reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the park’s natural beauty, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. However, many raise concerns about the high cabin prices and limited activities for children. One reviewer said, 'This is a cute little state park that’s close to home...but the cabin prices are OUTRAGEOUS.'"

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Campground Map

61 TSALAKI TRAIL, HELEN, Georgia, 30545, United States

Smithgall Woods

61 TSALAKI TRAIL, HELEN, Georgia, 30545, United States

Driving directionsLocated on Hwy. 75-A, between Cleveland and Helen, 90-minutes from Atlanta. From I-85-North: I-85 North to I-985 North. Take exit 24 and turn left on US 129 N traveling west. At the 2nd traffic light (1-mile), turn right on 129-N to Cleveland. Remain on 129-N through Cleveland (DO NOT TURN TO GO TO HELEN). Continue north on 129-N 3.5-miles and turn right on Hwy. 75-A. Smithgall Woods is 5.6 miles on the right. The Visitor Center with the guest check-in is located 200 yards inside the entrance gate. From GA 400 North: Follow GA 400 to the end. At the traffic light, continue straight ahead on Long Branch Rd. 4.5 miles to the traffic light. Turn right on Hwy. 52/115 and follow to Cleveland (12.9 miles). Turn left at the traffic light on the Cleveland square onto Hwy. 129-N. At the next traffic light, go straight (DO NOT TURN TO GO TO HELEN). Continue north on 129-N 3.5-miles and turn right on Hwy. 75-A. Smithgall Woods is 5.6 miles on the right. The Visitor Center with the guest check-in is located 200 yards inside the entrance gate.
Accessible through paved roads (Hwy. 75-A). Clear directions are provided with multiple landmarks. No seasonal closures mentioned. Roads appear to be straightforward with no noted challenging terrain.
Nearby places
Helen (approx. 5 miles), Cleveland (approx. 3.5 miles), Atlanta (90-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Gift shop available at the park Visitor Center, offering some animal and educational items
further details about nearby fuel stations, groceries, or camping stores are null.

Best Time to Camp at Smithgall Woods

Each season paints Smithgall Woods in dramatic new colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where heavy rains feed rushing streams and occasional snow dustings create magical morning scenes. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers carpet the trails before giving way to the lush, muggy embrace of summer. But it's autumn that truly steals hearts here – when golden light filters through changing leaves and crisp mountain air creates the perfect backdrop for weddings and romantic getaways.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; summer not highlighted as prime season compared to spring/fall.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

October is peak/high demand; fall foliage and excellent trout fishing make it a top season.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring called one of the best times for weather and trout fishing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Winter brings heavy rains and occasional snow; scenery shifts but few winter activities noted.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: October mentioned in user reviews as a high-demand time for cabins.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Operational year-round, though some reviews refer to seasonal variations, e.g., cabin pricing in October.
  • Current Alerts: One reviewer noted storm damage with trees and power lines down; no ongoing official alerts provided.

About Smithgall Woods

Nestled in the heart of north Georgia's mountains, Smithgall Woods beckons anglers and nature lovers alike to discover its pristine wilderness. Here, the legendary Dukes Creek winds through ancient forest, offering some of the Southeast's most coveted trout fishing. Beyond the crystal-clear waters, cascading waterfalls mark hidden trails while cycling paths weave through towering hemlocks. Six intimate mountain cabins provide the perfect refuge for romantic escapes, intimate weddings, or inspiring corporate retreats where the only agenda is reconnecting with nature.
Smithgall Woods does not cater to traditional camping experiences such as tent or RV camping. Instead, the park is tailored to guests seeking upscale cabin lodging. These cabins are designed to provide a premium retreat experience and are particularly favored for weddings and corporate events.
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Activities you can enjoy

Smithgall Woods provides an array of outdoor activities. The park is an angler’s paradise, with the nationally rated Dukes Creek trout stream offering a barbless catch-and-release fishing experience, which is available by reservation only. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy over 23 miles of trails, and there are 8 miles of pathways suitable for cycling. The park also features two waterfalls, which are accessible via trails. Visitors have praised the park for its natural beauty and tranquility. However, some described it as better suited for day visits and relaxed outings rather than an action-packed experience.
HikingThe park boasts over 23 miles of hiking trails, catering to different skill levels. Several reviews highlight the beauty of the trails, with one stating, 'Five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams, and wildlife.' However, another user criticized the lack of clear signage, saying, 'Trails need marked better. You’re assuming people know where the waterfalls are located.'
FishingFishing at Dukes Creek is a significant draw, described as 'one of North Georgia’s premier trout streams.' Fishing is strictly managed, requiring reservations and adherence to the barbless catch-and-release policy. A reviewer noted, 'Fishing is carefully managed and by appointment only, so you’ll need to call ahead.' Larger fish reportedly thrive here due to these regulations, and the stream is ranked nationally in the top 100 trophy trout streams.
Biking8 miles of pathways are available for cycling. The terrain is described as moderately challenging and intertwined with trails for nature exploration. One reviewer mentioned, '18 miles of roadways allow hikers and bicyclists to explore.'
Wildlife viewingThe park is home to diverse wildlife, as noted by visitors exploring the hardwood forests and streams. One reviewer remarked, 'The park seems like they really take conservation seriously,' and another stated, 'Lots of camping spots, beautiful scenery.'
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe visitors center includes educational displays primarily about native birds, as highlighted by one reviewer: 'The discovery building was filled with educational things (mostly) about native birds.'
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRain-heavy weeks may pose challenges for hiking and outdoor activities. Tsalaki Trail noted negatively for environmental impact by one reviewer.
Active AlertsOne reviewer noted storm damage with trees and power lines down; no ongoing official alerts provided.

Weather at Smithgall Woods

Reviews

4.4
25 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Smithgall Woods is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the park’s natural beauty, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. However, many raise concerns about the high cabin prices and limited activities for children. One reviewer said, 'This is a cute little state park that’s close to home...but the cabin prices are OUTRAGEOUS.'
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the 'peaceful and serene' setting, beautiful cabins, and well-maintained hiking trails. The trout stream and the park’s commitment to conservation were also frequently praised.
Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

The two most common complaints are the high cost of cabin rentals and the limited activities for families with children. Some users also criticized the trail signage and road conditions.
Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend making fishing reservations in advance and exploring the educational displays in the visitors center. Another suggestion is to visit during off-peak times to avoid high cabin...
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Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early fall are noted as the best times to visit due to the weather and trout fishing opportunities. October sees particularly high cabin rental costs.
Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Smithgall Woods is tucked away between mountains, amongst towering vibrant green Hemlocks and scribbled across by the tumbling cool, clear water of Dukes Creek.' 2. 'Fishing is carefully managed...
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Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The cabins are frequently highlighted. For instance, Creekside Cottage and Dover Cottage are praised for their streamside views and amenities.
Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities beyond complaints about unclear trail signage.
Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews or official sources.
Based on 25 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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