Jenkins Springs Campsite

For Georgians with a passion for true wilderness adventure and the tranquility of backcountry camping, Jenkins Springs Campsite offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled along the renowned Pine Mountain Trail (PMT) within the expansive F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain, Georgia, this campsite is a hidden gem for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature’s untouched beauty. It's not your typical drive-up campground with extensive amenities; instead, it provides a genuine, rustic escape, perfect for hikers and tent campers who appreciate solitude and the raw appeal of the outdoors.

Jenkins Springs Campsite has earned a reputation as a fantastic stopping point for those traversing the PMT, known for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain. Imagine hiking through lush forests, crossing small streams, and finally arriving at a peaceful hollow that becomes your home for the night. This campsite embodies the spirit of traditional backpacking, offering a chance to disconnect from the modern world and truly reconnect with the natural rhythm of Georgia’s landscapes. The sound of a nearby stream provides a soothing soundtrack, and the ample foliage offers natural shade, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for your overnight stay.

What makes Jenkins Springs particularly appealing to locals is its accessibility for various levels of backcountry campers. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day trek along the PMT or just looking for an easy overnight backcountry experience, this campsite is "very doable." Its relative proximity to popular parking lots like Molly Hugger or Fox Den means you don't have to be an extreme hiker to enjoy the peace and quiet of a truly remote campsite. It’s a perfect introduction to backcountry camping for those new to it, and a beloved regular stop for experienced adventurers. Many Georgians return to Jenkins Springs time and again, drawn by its serene setting and the authentic outdoor experience it provides within the heart of their home state.

Jenkins Springs Campsite is located at V658+H6V, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA, placing it firmly within the boundaries of the magnificent F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Its exact location is a backcountry spot along the famous Pine Mountain Trail, making access primarily by foot. For Georgians, this means a scenic drive to the park and then an invigorating hike to reach the campsite, adding an adventurous element to your camping trip.

The campsite is strategically positioned for hikers on the PMT. It's approximately 8 miles from the Country Store parking area (a common starting point for longer treks) and only a couple of miles in from either the Molly Hugger or Fox Den parking lots. This makes Jenkins Springs highly accessible for those seeking a shorter, easier backcountry overnight trip. The Pine Mountain Trail is well-marked with blazes and mileage markers, guiding hikers directly to the campsite. Park maps, available at the F.D. Roosevelt State Park office or online through the Pine Mountain Trail Association, are essential for navigation and planning your route to Jenkins Springs.

Upon arrival at F.D. Roosevelt State Park, visitors will need to obtain a daily parking pass or display a Georgia ParkPass on their vehicle. The park office, located at 2970 GA-190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, is the central hub for check-in, permits, and maps. The accessibility of Jenkins Springs, requiring a hike rather than a drive-up, ensures a more secluded and pristine experience, truly immersing campers in the natural environment of Georgia's largest state park. This combination of a beautiful setting and a rewarding journey makes it a perfect destination for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Jenkins Springs Campsite, as a backcountry destination within F.D. Roosevelt State Park, offers a focused set of services designed for primitive camping. These services are geared towards self-sufficient campers who appreciate the ruggedness of the wilderness while still having essential provisions for a safe and comfortable stay. It’s important to note that these are basic amenities, and campers should come prepared with their own gear and supplies.

• Designated Tent Spots: The campsite provides plenty of flat, cleared areas ideal for pitching tents, ensuring a comfortable sleeping surface amidst the natural surroundings.
• Water Source: A stream is located nearby the campsite, providing a natural water source for campers. It is crucial for all campers to bring a water filter or purification tablets, as natural water sources should always be treated before consumption for safety.
• Fire Ring with Built-in Grill: A metal fire ring with a built-in grill is available at the campsite, allowing for safe campfires (when no fire ban is in effect) and open-fire cooking. Campers should bring their own firewood or collect dead and downed wood responsibly, adhering to park regulations.
• Logs for Seating: While not an elaborate seating arrangement, logs are typically present around the fire pit, offering natural places to sit and relax.
• Hammock-Friendly Spots (with consideration): While primarily known for tent camping, the campsite does offer a couple of sets of trees with good spacing that are suitable for hammock campers, providing options for different sleeping preferences.

Jenkins Springs Campsite boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a highly desirable backcountry camping spot for Georgians. These attributes contribute to its reputation as a memorable and authentic outdoor escape on the Pine Mountain Trail.

• Perfect Stopping Point on the PMT: Its strategic location on the Pine Mountain Trail makes it an ideal overnight stop for hikers undertaking longer sections of the trail, providing a natural and well-placed resting point.
• Secluded Hollow Setting: The campsite is nestled in a "fantastic little hollow," offering a sense of seclusion and protection from the elements. This natural bowl-like formation enhances the feeling of being truly immersed in the wilderness.
• Proximity to a Stream: The presence of a nearby stream is a significant highlight, providing a convenient water source (to be treated) and adding to the serene ambiance with the gentle sounds of flowing water.
• Ample Shade and Natural Foliage: The surrounding trees and foliage offer natural shade, keeping the campsite cool and comfortable, especially during warmer months. This contributes to a pleasant and enjoyable outdoor experience.
• Versatile Tent and Hammock Options: With plenty of flat spots for tents and suitable tree spacing for hammocks (with a bit of exploration into the woods), the campsite accommodates various camping styles.
• Accessibility for Shorter Backcountry Trips: Its proximity to the Molly Hugger and Fox Den parking lots makes it highly "doable" for those looking for an easy, shorter backcountry overnight, broadening its appeal to a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts.
• Maintained by Park and Trail Associations: As part of F.D. Roosevelt State Park and supported by the Pine Mountain Trail Association, the site benefits from efforts to maintain the trail and campsite, ensuring a quality experience for visitors.

As a backcountry campsite within a Georgia State Park, Jenkins Springs Campsite falls under the fee and permit structure of F.D. Roosevelt State Park. While there aren't specific, standalone "promotions" for this individual campsite, Georgians can often take advantage of various state park passes and discount opportunities to make their outdoor adventures more affordable.

• Backcountry Permit Fee: As of November 1, 2022, the individual backcountry permit fee is $12.00 per night per person for groups of up to 5. For a group of 5 or more, the fee is $60.00 per night. These permits are required for all overnight stays and must be obtained at the park office.
• Georgia State ParkPass: All vehicles parked within F.D. Roosevelt State Park require a daily ($5) or annual ($50) ParkPass. This pass covers parking fees for all state parks for its duration. Overnight guests pay only one daily parking fee for the duration of their stay.
• Senior and Military Discounts: Georgia State Parks often offer discounts for seniors (62 and older) and active duty military/veterans on campsite rates (typically 20%). It's always worth inquiring if these discounts apply to backcountry permits as well.
• Online Reservations: While not a discount, utilizing the Georgia State Parks website (gastateparks.org) or calling 1-800-864-7275 to make online or phone reservations in advance can secure your spot and ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

It is crucial to remember that even with a reservation, you must obtain your physical backcountry permit at the F.D. Roosevelt State Park office at least two hours before dark on the day you begin your hike. Always check the official Georgia State Parks website or contact the park office directly for the most current information on fees, regulations, and any potential changes to policies or offers.

For all inquiries, reservations, or to gather more detailed information about Jenkins Springs Campsite and backcountry camping within F.D. Roosevelt State Park, please use the following contact details. It is highly recommended to communicate directly with the park office for the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially concerning permits and trail conditions.

Address: V658+H6V, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA (This is a location code, the physical park office is at 2970 GA-190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822).

Phone: (706) 663-4858 (F.D. Roosevelt State Park Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 706-663-4858 (F.D. Roosevelt State Park Office)

When calling, specify that you are inquiring about backcountry camping, particularly Jenkins Springs Campsite, on the Pine Mountain Trail. The park staff can provide crucial information regarding permit requirements, trail access points, water availability, and any fire bans or other regulations that may be in effect. Remember that backcountry permits must be obtained in person at the park office on the day of your hike, even if you have an online reservation. Planning ahead and direct communication will ensure a smooth and enjoyable backcountry experience.

Jenkins Springs Campsite is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals throughout Georgia who are yearning for an authentic and rejuvenating outdoor experience. Its location within the magnificent F.D. Roosevelt State Park, coupled with its position on the beloved Pine Mountain Trail, offers Georgians a convenient yet deeply immersive escape into nature without requiring extensive travel.

For those who value primitive camping and the challenge of a rewarding hike, Jenkins Springs delivers. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the demands of daily life and immerse yourself in the natural sounds and sights of Georgia's diverse landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker tackling a long section of the PMT or a family introducing younger members to the joys of backcountry camping with a shorter trek, the campsite's accessibility and features cater to a range of experience levels.

Furthermore, by choosing to camp at Jenkins Springs, Georgians directly support the upkeep and preservation of F.D. Roosevelt State Park and the Pine Mountain Trail. This contributes to the continued accessibility of these invaluable natural resources for future generations. It’s an opportunity to embrace the rugged beauty of our state, challenge yourself on the trails, and find peace in the quiet solitude of the wilderness. Jenkins Springs Campsite offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides a profound connection to Georgia’s natural heritage and an unforgettable adventure right in your backyard.