Ocmulgee Bluff Horse Bike and Hike Trail System
Ocmulgee Bluff Trail System is the jumping-off point for the Ocmulgee River Horse, Bike, and Hiking Trail. This area has parking for many vehicles and horse trailers and can accommodate large groups of riders. The trail generally follows the Ocmulgee River but does veer away from the river on some recently added loops. This trail is the compilation of several smaller loop trails that comprise nearly 30 miles of riding, biking, and hiking adventure and pleasure. The Ocmulgee Bluff Equestrian Trail is currently open, except for the segment of the trail from Forest Service Road 1013 north to Highway 16.
Please see Forest Service map https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd574149.pdf
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | Open Sunrise to Sunset - Day use area only |
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Operational Hours: | Sunrise to Sunset |
Reservations: | None Required |
Rentals & Guides: | None |
Area Amenities: |
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Fees: | $ 5.00 per day/per vehicle |
Permit Info: | A special use permit is required for guide led tours. Contact the Oconee Ranger District at 706-485-7110. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. excluding holidays |
Open Season: | Year round |
Restrictions: | Overnight camping is not allowed at this recreation area. OHV's are not allowed. No Fireworks on the National Forest! Possessing, discharging or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotecnic or explosive device. 36 CFR 261.52 (f) |
Closest Towns: | The nearest town is approximately 10 miles, or 15 minutes, northeast in Monticello, GA. Here riders will find restaurants, grocery stores, etc. |
Water: | None |
Restroom: | Vault Toilet/ Men's and Women's |
Passes: | The Chattahoochee-Oconee Annual Forest pass is accepted here. This pass can be purchased at any Ranger District office for $25.00. Click here for detailed information on passes! |
Information Center: | Please call the Oconee Ranger District at 706-485-7110 Office Hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. excluding holidays |
General Information
Directions:From I-75 exit 187 in Forsyth GA, take GA 83 northeast towards Monticello GA for approximately 15 miles to the intersection of Smith Mill Rd. Turn left onto Smith Mill Rd. and travel approximately 3 miles on a gravel road to the entrance to the trail head on the left.
From Monticello GA, travel approximately 10 miles southwest towards Forsyth GA on GA 83 to Smith Mill Rd. on your right and travel approximately 3 miles on a gravel road to the entrance to the trail head on the left.
General Notes:
Overnight camping is not allowed at this recreation site.
Primative camping is provided at the Ocmulgee Horse Camp located on Forest Service 1099 off of GA 83 south of Smith Mill Rd.
Parking:
Parking for a large number of vehicles and trailers is available.
Activities
Mountain Biking
The Ocmulgee Trail System has nearly 30 miles of trails for mountain bike riding. This is a mixed use trail for horse back riding , hiking and biking. The trail generally follows the Ocmulgee River with loops and cutbacks along the way. Please be aware of other trail users.
Status: | Open |
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Fees: | $ 5.00 per day per rider |
Reservation info: | None |
Hours of Operation: | Sunrise to sunset |
Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
Day Hiking
Trails - Ocmulgee River, Wise Creek, Kinnard Creek.
Horse Camping
Dispersed camping is provided at the Ocmulgee Horse Camp located on Forest Service road 1099 off of GA 83, south of Smith Mill Rd.This camp site has been set up to accommodate equestrian camping, high lines are provided and enough area for several trailers. This is a carry in, carry out site with no amenities provided. There is no fee required. Length of stay is limited to 14 days.
General Info:
DirectionsLocated on Forest Service Rd. 1099 off of GA 83 south approximately one mile form the Ocmulgee River crossing.
Parking
This dispersed campng area can accommodate several horse trailers and vehicles.
Horse Riding
Horse back riding and hiking.
The Ocmulgee River Equistrian Trail is a compliation of several smaller trails,the Ocmulgee River Trail, Wise Creek Trail, Kennard Creek Trail, and White Creek Trail.
Picnicking
A picinc table and grill are provided for riders to use.
Alerts & Warnings
- ALL TEMPORARY CLOSURE ALERTS
- Toccoa River - Sandy Bottoms Day Use on Recreation.gov
- No Water at Cooper Creek Campground
- Tallulah River Road Construction to Begin
- Before riding your UTV, Educate Yourself!
- The Pocket Campground Now Reservable for 2025 Season
- Houston Valley Now Scan & Pay
- Track Rock Petroglyphs
- Flatlands Road (FSR 256 and FSR 637) Closed
- Road Closures on the Chattooga River Ranger District
- Coleman River Rd (FSR #54) Closure
- CAUTION Waterfall Dangers
- CALL BEFORE YOU HAUL - ATV and OHV
- Panther Creek Trail Temporary Hiker Restrictions
- Don't Move Firewood!