Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Head northwest on US-76 W to GA 288 W. Exit onto Fodder Creek Rd. Stay on Fodder Creek Rd. for 3.5 mi and the campground will be on the left on Gander Gap Rd.
Get Google DirectionsOnce you have secured your campsite at Hiawassee KOA Holiday, it's time to dive into planning an exciting itinerary filled with the area's must-see attractions and activities. Making an itinerary for visiting Hiawassee like the one below is one of the best ways to ensure you don't miss anything fun.
Kick off your adventure with a visit to Bell Mountain, a quick 15-minute drive from the campground. Once you arrive, you will be rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic views. You can drive up a two-mile windy road and park before hiking the final incline or continue driving. Once you reach the top, see stunning views of Lake Chatuge and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Spend an hour or two strolling through the Hamilton Rhododendron Garden. The botanical park features over 3,000 plants in a kaleidoscope of colors, making for an enchanting afternoon.
Grab dinner at a local favorite, like Sundance Grill, and then head back to the campground to spend the night roasting s'mores by the community firepit or watching an outdoor movie.
Enjoy stunning views at the Brasstown Bald Visitor Information Center. This center is the highest point in Georgia and has an observation deck with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour at the visitor center depending on whether you are just there for the view or want to learn more about the local history at the small museum located inside the center.
Cool off by spending the day swimming or sunbathing by Lake Chatuge, which is a convenient 20-minute drive from the campground. If you are feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard from an outfitter like Young Harris Watersports & RV.
Take a cruise on the Aqua Tiki party boat. Your captain will provide drinks, and you can relax or play music and have a dance party on the water. Most people rent tiki party boats for up to two hours, but you are welcome to keep the party going for an additional fee.
Spend an hour or two diving into the rich history and vibrant arts scene of Hiawassee at the Clay County Historical & Arts Council. Browse the many exhibits or take a walk in the Native Botanic Garden.
Explore local and familiar favorites at Betty's Country Store, a scenic 30-minute drive from the campground. This charming country store is more than your average convenience shop. It features packed shelves with plenty of food items and a wide assortment of beer.
Before returning to the campground, try something new for dinner at the HIR Gastro Lounge. Spend the evening relaxing at the pavilion or gather some people for a fun game of outdoor bowling.
High Shoals Falls is one of the many picturesque hiking options in the area and is 25 minutes from the campground. As you hike, you will see five different waterfalls including Blue Hole Falls. High Shoals Falls is 1.35 miles into the hike, and the entire loop is 2.5 miles.
The Georgia Mountain Market is one of the top attractions in Hiawassee, Georgia, and it is a great place to visit if you need souvenirs or want to explore handcrafted items. Most visitors spend half an hour to an hour at this charming market.
End your day at The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen. This restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with an elevated menu that is sure to delight.
Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the lakeshore at the Lake Chatuge Recreation Area. This one-mile trail is 15 minutes from the campground, making it a great start to your morning.
Take a 20-minute drive from the campground to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hiawassee on one of the many hiking trails at Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area. A 2.4-mile trail loops through open woods and offers glimpses of Lake Chatuge.
Treat yourself to dinner at The Flying Trout in The Copperhead Lodge. The restaurant has indoor and open terrace seating with an extensive menu of American classics.
If you love Christmas, Always Christmas is the place for you. This is Georgia's largest Christmas emporium, and you will find decor, ornaments and gift items to bring holiday cheer any time of year. Most people spend around an hour at the store, and new items arrive daily. It is a great place to visit each time you are in Hiawassee — or multiple times during your trip since it's only 15 minutes from the campground.
Alpine Helen offers an authentic German experience. Indulge in delicious German delicacies as you explore the more than 200 specialty and import shops. Most visitors spend about two hours here, but your trip may be longer if you grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants or stop to savor a stein of lager.
Wind down with a glass of local wine at Hightower Creek Vineyards, which is a short 15-minute drive from the campground. The Blue Ridge Mountains surround the winery, making it a picturesque place to find your new favorite wine.
Are you looking for the perfect souvenir? The Hiawassee Antique Mall has 10,000 square feet and more than 70 booths, where you can find an extensive display of antiques and collectibles, such as China, glassware and jewelry. This fun shopping spot is a quick 15-minute drive from the campground, and most people spend up to an hour here exploring the many vendors and antiques.
If you are in the mood for a little road trip, Sweet Acre Farms Winery is an hour and 10 minutes away from the campground. Sit and relax as you take in views of the Northeast Georgia Mountains while sipping local wine made from fresh fruits.
Head back to the campground for a swim in the pool or a game of horseshoes with friends.
With so many fun things to do, you may want to stay longer in Hiawassee. If you are already staying at the campground, you can visit the check-in location and speak to a friendly front desk team member about extending your stay. You can also book a site online or call the campground to learn more about extending your trip.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
