Known as the “best little German town in American,” Helen, is a fun place to explore in Northeast Georgia. The German architecture, quaint shops and Bavarian restaurants provide the full Bavarian experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, the area provides numerous outdoor activities.
Key Takeaways:
- Helen, Georgia is a fun town to experience the sights, smells and fare of Bavaria, all in Northeast Georgia
- Surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and Chattahoochee River offer plenty of outdoor activities
- Several dog friendly restaurants, beer gardens, wineries and breweries in the area
- Numerous hiking trails in the area
- Yonah Mountain Camping Resort is a convenient campground to all the local attractions
Campground Review:
Yonah Mountain Camping Resort is located in Cleveland, Georgia, just four miles from Helen. The transient sites were level with 50 amp, sewer and water. The campground is dog friendly but there was no designated dog park or trails. The location and amenities were fine for a short stay. The weather was very cold during our December stay so we couldn’t experience all the resort amenities.
What to do:
- Explore the town of Helen, taking in the quaint shops, beer gardens, Bavarian restaurants and German architecture. Several locals recommended the Bodensee for authentic German food.
- Check Helen, Georgia’s website for festival dates to include the annual Octoberfest and Christmas Market
- Explore the many wineries and breweries in the area. We enjoyed the Frogtown Cellers near Dahlonega, but they did not allow dogs.
- Take the dogs on a hike to the Anna Ruby Falls, located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Go early to beat the crowds!
- In warmer weather, take a trip down the Chattahoochee River. You’ll find numerous outfitters throughout the area.
Chili & Cedar’s Review:
This campground is okay for a short stay. We took walks around the park and found some green space, but it did lack trails and a dedicated dog park.
Campground Rating: 3 PAWS
We loved our walk to Anna Ruby Falls – lots of dogs and dog-friendly people. We didn’t go to the town of Helen, since it was too cold to sit outside – there were several dog-friendly restaurants.