DeSoto Falls Recreation Area Introduce
Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, GA, DeSoto Falls Recreation Area offers a serene escape into nature for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This charming recreation area provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it an ideal destination for both families and solo adventurers.
DeSoto Falls is known for its breathtaking Upper and Lower Falls, which are just minutes away from the parking lot. The Upper Fall, a 9/10-mile hike, offers a challenging but rewarding experience with significant elevation gain, while the Lower Fall, at 3/10 mile, provides an easier stroll through the scenic landscape. These falls are surrounded by lush forests and rocky outcrops, creating a stunning natural setting.
The campground at DeSoto Falls is well-maintained and offers a mix of shaded and open sites, providing a comfortable base for your outdoor adventure. Visitors appreciate the simple trails that wind through the woods, offering opportunities to explore and enjoy nature at a leisurely pace. The recreation area also boasts easy access to nearby attractions, such as Helen, GA, making it a convenient hub for exploring the region.
One of the unique features of DeSoto Falls is its location right off US-129, which brings both convenience and a minor caveat: road noise. While this means the campground is easily accessible and close to local amenities, it also introduces occasional noise from passing vehicles and motorcycles.
Customer reviews highlight the beauty and tranquility of the area, with many visitors praising the ease of parking, lack of crowds, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere. One camper described the experience as "great" and expressed enthusiasm about returning, while another appreciated the proximity to Helen, GA.
- "The campground is nice and well maintained. Trails to waterfalls are perfect for a day out in nature."
- "Upper and lower falls were both good. Not very crowded, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful hike."
DeSoto Falls Recreation Area is more than just a camping destination—it’s a gateway to Georgia’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this recreation area offers something for everyone.
Location
Customer Reviews
The campground is nice and well maintained. There are some simple trails to waterfalls or to just spend some time in the woods. The campground is close to Helen, GA so that is a plus. The downside of the campground is the road noise you get non-stop. The campground is right off the main road so you’ll have a constant hum of cars and motorcycles. Overall this campground is great and I would definitely recommend it.
Upper and lower falls were both good. Upper is about 9/10 mile from the parking lot. Lower is about 3/10 mile. Upper is harder with more elevation gain but easy overall. Not very crowded and parking is easy.
Very nice area to hike. There is a campground here. Plenty of parking, there’s a kiosk to pay for parking, $5. It was not working when we visited, QR code to pay. Service isn’t the best and you have to download the app if you don’t have it, I didn’t. There were several of us having issues. I eventually got it down before we left. Upper falls is the longest, not too difficult. The trail is like most well marked roots and rocks here and there. The lower falls is short distance but all incline! We have been here several times. I actually managed not to miss the entrance this time.
Lovely little hike to 2 pretty waterfalls. Easy enough for kids, very pet friendly. The lower falls is more of an incline but not bad. Upper falls is longer but less strenuous. $5 parking. Vault toilets at trailhead. Picnic area too. There is also a campground that looked nice but we did not camp there, just went for the day. Great way to enjoy the outdoors!
Well maintained trails, quite a few steep bits for anyone with difficulty walking... The upper falls route is more gentle, but does still have hills to traverse. Lower falls is shorter, but MUCH more steep.
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