Deep Hole Recreation Area

Are you looking for an ideal escape into the tranquility of North Georgia's natural beauty? Look no further than Deep Hole Recreation Area. Tucked away in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this beloved campground offers a perfect blend of peaceful riverside relaxation and exciting outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for Georgians seeking a refreshing break from the everyday.

Deep Hole Recreation Area is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to experiencing the pristine wilderness of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re an avid angler, a family looking for a memorable camping trip, or someone who simply enjoys the calming sounds of a flowing river, Deep Hole provides an idyllic setting. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the authentic outdoor experience it offers, attracting visitors year after year.

For those of us in Georgia, a quick trip to the mountains for a dose of nature is often just what the doctor ordered. Deep Hole Recreation Area delivers on this promise, providing a convenient and accessible option for a true wilderness experience without having to travel too far from home. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Deep Hole Recreation Area is conveniently situated along the picturesque banks of the Toccoa River, just north of Suches, Georgia. This prime location in the North Georgia Mountains, within the expansive Chattahoochee National Forest, offers a sense of seclusion while remaining relatively accessible for local travelers. For those driving from Atlanta, it’s approximately a two-hour journey north, winding through scenic mountain roads that set the tone for your outdoor adventure.

The address for your GPS is Deep Hole Campground Road - U S F South, Suches, GA 30572, USA. While the drive is part of the experience, it’s worth noting that cell service can be limited in some remote areas of the national forest, so it's always a good idea to download maps or directions beforehand.

The campground’s proximity to the Toccoa River is a significant draw, offering direct access for various water activities. It's also well-positioned for exploring other nearby natural attractions in the region, providing a fantastic basecamp for your North Georgia explorations. The area around Suches is known for its stunning vistas, particularly vibrant in the fall when the leaves burst into a kaleidoscope of colors.

Deep Hole Recreation Area provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, emphasizing a more rustic and natural setting. While it's not a resort with extensive facilities, it offers what you need to truly appreciate the outdoors.

• Campsites: The campground features nine neatly arranged campsites, some of which, like sites #5 and #9, are directly adjacent to the Toccoa River, offering prime riverside views and access. Each campsite is equipped with standard amenities such as tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, perfect for cooking up a campfire meal.

• Restroom Facilities: There is a double vault toilet located within the campground, known for being surprisingly well-maintained for an outhouse-style facility, as noted by visitors.

• Day-Use Area: Adjacent to the campground is a day-use area, which is ideal for those visiting for a shorter period. This area includes picnic sites, a canoe launch, and a fishing deck, perfect for a day of riverside enjoyment.

• Boat Launch: A small boat launch is available for tubes and canoes, providing easy access to the Toccoa River for floating and paddling.

• Pet-Friendly: Deep Hole Recreation Area welcomes furry friends, though dogs are required to be on a leash at all times for the safety and comfort of all visitors and local wildlife.

It's important to note that Deep Hole Recreation Area offers a more primitive camping experience. There are no water hook-ups, electricity, or dump stations available at the campsites, meaning RVs and campers should be self-contained. Also, there is no potable drinking water on site, so visitors should plan to bring their own.

Deep Hole Recreation Area boasts several features and highlights that make it a favorite among Georgia's outdoor enthusiasts:

• Toccoa River Access: The campground's primary highlight is its direct access to the Toccoa River. This river is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout, as well as rock and smallmouth bass. The Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery regularly stocks the river, especially during peak camping season, ensuring a good fishing experience.

• Toccoa River Canoe Trail: Deep Hole Recreation Area marks the beginning of the Toccoa River Canoe Trail, a nationally designated river trail that spans 13.8 miles down to the Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area. This trail is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, offering beautiful views of forested public and private lands, laurel and rhododendron thickets, and diverse wildlife. It’s suitable for both beginners and those who enjoy a leisurely paddle.

• Wildlife Watching: The North Georgia Mountains are a haven for wildlife. Visitors often spot deer, turkey, bear, and various small furbearers, providing ample opportunities for nature photography and observation.

• Scenic Beauty: Situated within the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, the area offers breathtaking natural scenery. In October, the region is particularly spectacular as the trees display vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making it an incredibly picturesque time to visit.

• Proximity to Hiking Trails: While Deep Hole itself isn't a major hiking hub, it's a short drive from trailheads that lead to renowned paths like the Appalachian Trail (crossing Highway 60 at Woody Gap, about 13 miles south) and the Benton MacKaye Trail (crossing Highway 60 at Tooni Gap, about 2 miles north, and Wilscot Gap, about 8 miles north). This makes it a great base for day hikes.

• Year-Round Recreation: The mild climate of the North Georgia Mountains allows for year-round recreation, although the vibrant fall foliage is a particular draw.

Currently, there aren't specific ongoing promotions or special offers directly advertised for Deep Hole Recreation Area itself beyond the standard fee structure. However, visitors should be aware of the following fee information and potential discounts:

• Camping Fees: Camping at Deep Hole Recreation Area is typically $15 per site/night. These fees are subject to change, so it's advisable to verify the current rate before your arrival. Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, though it's always good to check for any updated reservation policies, especially during peak seasons.

• Day-Use Fees: For those who are not camping overnight but wish to use the day-use facilities for picnicking, fishing, kayaking, or tubing, there is a $5 per vehicle/day fee. This fee can often be paid on-site using a credit card through the Recreation.gov mobile app. It's recommended to download the app before arriving, as cellular service can be spotty.

• Annual Passes: If you plan on frequenting various recreation areas within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, you might consider purchasing an annual pass for $25. This pass allows access to selected recreation opportunities without paying daily fees at each site. Additionally, holders of Interagency Senior and Access Passes, or Golden Age and Access Passports, may receive a 50% discount on single-family campsites and some day-use fees. These passes are generally available for purchase at Forest Service offices in nearby towns like Gainesville, Blairsville, Chatsworth, Lakemont, and Eatonton.

It's always a good practice to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on fees, availability, and any potential changes to policies or offerings.

For more information or to inquire about specific details regarding Deep Hole Recreation Area, you can reach out using the following contact information:

Address: Deep Hole Campground Road - U S F South, Suches, GA 30572, USA

Phone: (706) 745-6928

Mobile Phone: +1 706-745-6928

Please note that as a U.S. Forest Service Campground, information is also widely available through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest official website and Recreation.gov, which often provide detailed maps, alerts, and reservation information (if applicable).

For residents of Georgia, Deep Hole Recreation Area offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the state's magnificent natural landscape. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer outdoor adventure.

Firstly, its relatively close proximity to major metropolitan areas like Atlanta means that a truly wild and serene experience is just a short drive away. This accessibility allows for spontaneous trips and makes it feasible for families to enjoy nature without extensive travel planning.

Secondly, Deep Hole Recreation Area embraces a simpler, more authentic camping experience. In an age where many campgrounds are becoming increasingly commercialized, Deep Hole maintains a rustic charm. This is perfect for those who truly want to immerse themselves in nature, whether it's waking up to the sound of the Toccoa River flowing nearby or enjoying a campfire under a canopy of stars. The "outhouse style" restrooms, as described by satisfied visitors, are testament to the campground's commitment to a natural setting, yet they are remarkably clean and well-maintained.

The diverse range of activities available, particularly those centered around the Toccoa River, caters to various interests. Fishing, tubing, and canoeing are immensely popular, providing endless hours of enjoyment. For those who prefer dry land, the beautiful surroundings are perfect for leisurely strolls, wildlife viewing, and simply unwinding amidst the sounds of nature. The fact that it's pet-friendly also means that your beloved four-legged family members can join in on the adventure.

Finally, the sense of community and the positive feedback from previous visitors, highlighting the helpful staff and the friendly atmosphere, underscore Deep Hole Recreation Area as a welcoming and enjoyable destination. It’s a place where families can create cherished memories, friends can embark on shared adventures, and individuals can find peace and rejuvenation in the heart of Georgia's stunning North Georgia Mountains. If you're a local seeking a genuine outdoor experience, Deep Hole Recreation Area is waiting to welcome you back, time and time again.