FIND Outdoors, western North Carolina’s longest-running education and recreation nonprofit, is the Southeast’s premier organization to help you FIND our public lands, and the adventures won’t stop there!
Forest Inspired Nature Discovery (FIND) celebrates the peace, tranquility and healing nature that the outdoors has on our very souls – and just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean we’re locking the campground gates until next season. If you’ve never camped in winter, you’re in for a real treat, and FIND Outdoors is here to help you plan your adventure. A camping experience in cooler temps is the perfect time to avoid crowds, take in majestic mountain contours, cook over open flames, and snuggle up in your favorite camp chair with a cup of coffee. So let’s get down to business and get you outside this winter. From the sites that FIND operates in Georgia, North Carolina and Indiana, there are two absolute gems that remain open for camping and exploring throughout the winter season. Morganton Point Recreation Area on stunning Lake Blue Ridge in north Georgia serves as the gateway to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and boasts an amazing 60 miles of shoreline. The 40 group and walk-in campsites are nestled comfortably in both wooded and shorefront spots where you’ll watch the sun set over the lake and begin planning the next day’s activities. Water and electric are available throughout the campground, or try reserving the primitive “peninsula” campsites for a truly exceptional experience that is second to none for peace, solitude and beauty. Learn more about Morganton Point.
For those who enjoy things a bit more primitive but no less exceptional, Lake Russell Recreation Area is for you. Situated on the 100-acre Lake Russell, located just outside of Mt. Airy, GA, offerings include hiking, biking, fishing, boating and simple enjoyment. One loop, with a heated bathhouse, remains open through the winter, with primitive camping options that’ll bring you back to Mother Earth to enjoy her pure tranquility. Information and instructions on how to make a reservation here.
Your winter wonderland getaway wouldn’t be complete without exploring local area attractions that make northern Georgia so special. The village of Helen is a short drive from Lake Russell, and has become one of Georgia’s most visited tourist areas. Formerly a declining logging town, beginning in 1969 the city rejuvenated itself by mandating the design of each existing and new buildings to replicate South-German or Bavarian style architecture. Enjoy a meal at a local tavern, shop one of the numerous retail shops and chocolatiers, or get your heart pumping by riding a mountain coaster. It’s all at your fingertips!
Just up the road from Helen is Unicoi State Park and another fabulous FIND Outdoors managed site, Anna Ruby Falls visitor center and twin waterfall system that entices visitors from all over the southeast. The site also includes a gift shop, hiking trails, picnic areas and educational programs that reflect the rich legacy of the beautiful Georgia mountains in one of the most serene settings around.
You know FIND has you covered for your winter wonderland experience, but what about the warmer months? We have over 20 campgrounds, visitor centers and retail outlets in three states to keep you busy during the spring, summer and fall and the majority of them are along the Blue Ridge! Visit the highest peak in Georgia, go tubing along the South Toe River, learn about the birthplace of forestry, or purchase a national forest t-shirt to commemorate your adventures by making the trek to one of our FIND Outdoors locations from April through November. Plan your next adventure by visiting our website and learn about everything that our nonprofit can do for you to reconnect and recharge in the great outdoors. Book your adventure by visiting recreation.gov and reserving your next campsite at a FIND Outdoors managed campground.
Our story is rooted in education about the forest. Our passion is to help people become inspired. Our goal is to help visitors better connect with nature. Our drive is to help YOU learn through discovery. We help you…FIND Outdoors!
