Primitive Camping and Hiking (Dog Friendly) National Forest near Amicalola

It's my favorite season of the year: Camping Season! The weather is getting cooler, the dogs are frisky, the mountains are calling! If you know this feeling, join me at Amicalola Falls State Park, you know, the park where all north-bound AT through hikers start? It's also famous for the highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. In other words, an awesome park for an awesome, outdoorsy weekend.

The GRAND PLAN:

THURSDAY: Chris will drive up in the morning to find a good camping spot, and set up camp. If anyone wants to begin the weekend early, you are welcome to join her at the campground on Thursday afternoon.

FRIDAY: The rest of the group arrives at the camp site after midday. We set up camp, cook  dinner, and enjoy our creations by the fire. Later, we sit 6 feet apart around the campfire toasting 'Smores, and telling (mostly true) stories. Accomplished musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments.

SATURDAY: Campers have several options:

a) Hike the 10-mile Len Foote loop trail to The Hike Inn

b) Hike the 425+ steps up to, and down from, the waterfall

c) Hike the Approach Trail to the starting point of the AT

d) Hike to the Amicolola State Park lodge and hang out on the back porch sipping iced tea

e) Drive to nearby Dahlonega or Ellijay for some knee slapping good times, or, our favorite

f) Sleep in, eat when hungry, decompress, read a book, enjoy a relaxing day

Toward nightfall, we regroup around the campfire and prepare mouth- watering meals that are the envy of campers everywhere. As we enjoy our edible artwork, we continue the fun, friendship, and relaxation around a toasty fire.

SUNDAY: Two Options

a) Our camping trip officially ends on Sunday, however, anyone wishing to camp longer may stay on at the camp site, or,

b) Wake up, eat up (our breakfast), pack up (our gear), clear up (the campsite), and head out.

FULL DISCLOSURE: 

1. This is a relaxed, dog-friendly, primitive camping trip. In other words, we plan to enjoy our spirits, but we DO NOT promote a wild, "party" atmosphere, and politely ask that you drink responsibly. And please, NO drugs, OK?

2. We plan to spend quality time with our four-legged friends.

3. We plan to unplug and "rough it" for a couple of days. Seriously, if you are a Marriott-style camper who likes to be online 24/7, this event is not for you! There are NO comfort stations near the campsite. Also, because there is NO electricity, NO potable water, and NO shelters, please come FULLY EQUIPPED (see list of "REQUIRED ITEMS to BRING" below).

The good news however, is that, a) our campsite is a stone's throw away from the cars so in addition to the neccessities, now you can pack all your favorite luxury items. And b) In a super emergency, honest to goodness restroom facilities are only a short drive, or mile-long walk away.

DOGGIE DETAILS:

Group Limit for dogs: FOUR dogs + Fia (my dog)

Dogs are welcome on this event as long as they are supervised by their accompanying human at all times. If you enter Amicalola State Park, your dog must be leashed. Also, dogs are not allowed in or around historic sites, cottages, lodges, group camps, and swimming areas. Humans are responsible for the care and feeding of their dog and should ALWAYS clean up after their dog. Humans are solely responsible for their dog's behavior, and dogs that do not respond to commands may have to be leashed. In cases or serious, aggressive behavior, the dog may have to leave the event, along with their human.

Fron Atlanta, take 400 North

A few miles past the North Georgia Premium Outlets, turn LEFT onto Hwy. 136

Follow the signs to AMICALOLA STATE PARK

Hwy 136 merges with Hwy 183

When they split, stay on Hwy 183

Turn RIGHT onto Hwy. 52

Turn LEFT into Amicalola Falls State Park Road.

At the park gate, do not pay the parking fee - tell the attendant that you are driving through the Park to the Chattahoochee National Forest.

At the visitor center, turn LEFT

At the top of the hill, turn LEFT (follow the signs for the campground and cottages).

Turn RIGHT at the "Cottages 7-14," and "Hope Shoals Church" sign.

Past the end of the row of cottages, the road will turn into a gravel road - which is the start of the National Forest.

Our campsite will be somewhere along this gravel road - we will update you with the exact location and distance after Chris sets up camp on Thursday.

If you have any questions, please TEXT me at:

Chris: 404 725 4045