Smithgall Woods

Smithgall Woods State Park sits on more than 5,600 acres in Helen, Georgia, and it makes for an excellent camping location! The Smithgall Woods Campground has two tent-only group sites known as "Pioneer Camping" that accommodate up to 40 people. There are also six charming cottages to rent, some of which are accessible and can accommodate up to ten people. Tent camping areas are dog-friendly if your pets are on a leash, and one of the cottages allows dogs as well.

In addition to the camping areas, there are also five picnic shelters for rent that fit between 25 and 30 people and can be rented for $35 to $75. Pioneer Camping sites go for $75 a night, and cottages are available from $275 to $795 a night. Your campsite fee does not include your ParkPass fee, which costs $5 per day or $50 annually for groups of 1 to 12 campers -- prices increase for bigger groups.

There are all sorts of amenities to make your stay at Smithgall Woods as comfortable as possible, including drinking water, showers, picnic tables, and campfires. Cottages have televisions and telephones, a few have private hot tubs, and some have porches facing a stream. Smithgall Woods also has a visitors center, a gift shop, and a Discovery Room Museum, so don't miss out on those! 

During your stay at Smithgall Woods, you'll be just minutes away from hiking and biking trails, archery, fishing, birdwatching, and much more. There are 28 miles of hiking trails to trek, including a one-mile trail that takes you from the cottages to Dukes Creek Falls, one of the best trout fishing spots in the state. Guided tours take place on the first Saturday of every month, and campers can also make reservations for archery and educational programs. 

Hunting is permitted in Smithgall Woods, so hikers should wear bright colors and make plenty of noise. If you plan on fishing, a catch-and-release policy is in effect, and reservations are required. Smithgall Woods is a pawpular place, so be sure to book your campsite in advance!