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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Pocket Campground

Sugar Valley, Alabama · Floyd County · Campground

Overview The Pocket Recreation Area is located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in the ridges and valleys of northwest Georgia. The campground sits in a low lying geographical area between Horn and Mill mountains. This low lying area was formed by limestone dissolving, leaving the ridges above and valley…

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About Pocket Campground

Overview The Pocket Recreation Area is located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in the ridges and valleys of northwest Georgia. The campground sits in a low lying geographical area between Horn and Mill mountains. This low lying area was formed by limestone dissolving, leaving the ridges above and valleys below. These ridges are rich in iron ore "pockets" giving this area its name. Deer and turkeys thrive in the surrounding forest. Spring wildflowers and autumn colors abound, showcasing the beauty of the region. Nearby trails and overlooks allow visitors to enjoy the National Forest from different perspectives. The Pocket area is rich in cultural and historical history. In the mid-1800s until the Great Depression in the 1930s, this area consisted of two communities, Pocket and Zone. These communities consisted of farms, churches, home places, a grist mill, a saw mill, and a general store. Between 1938 and 1942, the Pocket Recreation Area was the site of a thriving Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) work camp for Company 3435. The men of the CCC, under the guidance of the U.S. Forest Service, had a tremendous impact on the area. They were involved in building roads, bridges, erosion control, tree planting, fighting wildfires, and the construction of recreation sites. The CCC played an instrumental part in helping local farmers with erosion control and road maintenance. Remnants of the camp can be found throughout the Pocket Recreation Area. These remnants include foundations for buildings, drainage trenches, retaining walls, and spring box in the picnic area. Activities in the Pocket Recreation Area include camping, picnicking, hiking, and trout fishing in nearby Johns Creek. Recreation The Pocket Campground is a quiet campground which not only serves as a place to rest and relax by the campfire, but serves as a base camp for activities located within other parts of the National Forest. Adjacent to the campground is the Pocket Picnic Area, complete with

How to Get There

From I-75, take exit 320 (LaFayette/Resaca) west on Georgia Highway 136 for approximately 14 miles. Turn left onto Pocket Road for approximately 7 miles. The recreation area will be on the left.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Pocket Campground

Heading to Pocket Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Pocket Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Pocket Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10296890) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Pocket Campground?

From I-75, take exit 320 (LaFayette/Resaca) west on Georgia Highway 136 for approximately 14 miles. Turn left onto Pocket Road for approximately 7 miles. The recreation area will be on the left.

How do I contact Pocket Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: 706-695-6736.