In the past couple of entries, we have been exploring the golden history of Dahlonega, Georgia. In this installment, we will head start heading north in our RV to the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area exploring other waterfalls along our route.
Our first stop is Cane Creek Falls on the northern outskirts of Dahlonega. The falls can be reached after a short walk from the visitor center.
Cane Creek Falls – All photos by author (Dave Helgeson)
It can be viewed from above via a viewing platform or from below on a bridge crossing the stream. An additional bridge above the falls allows you to complete a loop around the falls rather than backtracking the way you came in.
Next is Dicks Creek Falls. This series of waterfalls are right next to the road with little walking required to enjoy a good view of each. The falls are popular for wading and swimming in the summer.
Dicks Creek Falls
Just up from Dicks Creek Falls, we will reach our camping destination of DeSoto Falls Recreation Area where you can camp and enjoy a short hike to two more scenic waterfalls.
Desoto Falls Recreation Area
Legend tells us the area received its name from a piece of armor that was found from DeSotos’ expedition through the area in the mid-1500s. Upper and Lower DeSoto Falls can be reached via a moderate 2.2-mile roundtrip dog-friendly hike suitable for the whole family.
Lower DeSoto Falls
Take note of the giant rhododendrons as you hike along the trail. Upon returning to camp, anglers will want to try their luck catching a trout or two in Frogtown Creek which flows adjacent to the campground.
Hiking to scenic waterfalls from a campsite in the forest, just another great adventure in RVing.
Upper DeSoto Falls
When you go
Cane Creek Falls is located on a private Christian camp. The camp graciously allows visitors to enjoy the falls during daylight hours when camp is not in session. Click here for driving instructions.
Note: The Ace Hardware mentioned in the driving instructions was not there in the spring of 2019 (apparently destroyed by fire). Those navigating by GPS will find the visitors center at N34° 33.450 W84° 00.440
Best to visit in your dinghy or tow vehicle due to the access road and limited parking at the site.
Dicks Creek Falls is located in the Chattahoochee National, not to be confused with the falls with the same (very similar) name on the Chattooga River. Click here for driving instructions. Those navigating by GPS will find the parking area at N34° 40.774 W83°56.190
Again, it is best to visit in your dinghy or tow vehicle due to the access road and limited parking.
Spacious campsite at DeSoto Falls Campground
DeSoto Falls Campground offers forested campsites (some very spacious) along Frogtown Creek. Click here for more information on the campground and recreation area.
From Dahlonega, GA take Highway 19 north for 18 miles to the campground entrance on the left. Those navigating by GPS will find the turnoff at N34° 42.335 W83° 54.897
Read more about Desoto Falls Recreation Area on RV LIFE Campgrounds
See our previous articles:
Dave Helgeson’s many roles in the RV industry started before he even had a driver’s license. His grandparents and father owned an RV dealership before the term “RV” had been coined, and Dave played a pivotal role in nearly every position of an RV dealership. He and his wife Cheri launched their own RV dealership in the Pacific Northwest. The duo also spent 29 years overseeing regional RV shows. Dave has also served as President of a local chapter of the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), worked on the board of advisors for the RV Technician Program of a local technical college, and served as a board member of the Manufactured Home and RV Association. Dave’s reputation earned him the title of “The foremost expert on boondocking,” bestowed by RV industry icon, the late Gary Bunzer (The RV Doctor). When he’s not out boondocking, you’ll find Dave in the spotlight at RV shows across the country, giving seminars about all things RVing. He and Cheri currently roam in their fifth travel trailer, with Dave doing all the service, repair and modifications to his own unit.
You need to rotate the photos. Waterfalls go down not sideways.