parking on FS 42

[shades of blue]

I'm headed to Springer to begin a summer hike NOBO to Central Va. My wife wants to meet up with me around cooper gap to camp the first night. Is there parking where the AT crosses 42 there, or is the closest gooch gap crossing. Thanks for any help you can give.

[Dances with Mice]

I'm headed to Springer to begin a summer hike NOBO to Central Va. My wife wants to meet up with me around cooper gap to camp the first night. Is there parking where the AT crosses 42 there, or is the closest gooch gap crossing. Thanks for any help you can give.Yes, there is parking on both sides of the road at Cooper. There is a pull-in to a parking area with a campsite on the south side (directly behind the Forest Service sign).

[SawnieRobertson]

Yes, and consider bringing along an extra jug or two of water to share with anyone in need. The last water availability for those going north was six miles back, and it is getting pretty hot in Georgia.--Kinnickinic

[bigcranky]

Yes, parking and camping are both available there. Ditto on the water.

[shades of blue]

I appreciate the info folks. I'll make sure to have plenty of water.

[bigmac_in]

Plenty of parking at Cooper Gap, but I wouldn't camp there if it was me. Both times I've been there big trucks loaded with Army Ranger trainees drove through. Pretty loud, and we heard them during the night one night shooting up the place. If I remember correctly, there were a couple campsites up on Justus Mountain (less than a mile hike).

[Ox97GaMe]

Best way to get into Cooper Gap is to take the road up to Camp Merrill just north of Dahlonega. At the Army Ranger camp entrance, take the gravel road to the right. It is approx 1.5 miles over to FS42 from there.

This also explains why camping at Cooper Gap might get a bit noisy at night. The rangers take that road up to 42 then do manauvers all along the road. Dont be suprised to also be awakened by helicopters during the night.

you may also get ranger activity at Gooch Gap trailhead. There is better camping there and water, which makes it a much better choice for camping with your wife. Gooch Gap also is easier to find/access by car. Another benefit of staying at Gooch Gap trailhead is that you can drive up to Blairesville from there for dinner.

I wouldnt recommend having your wife drive up to Cooper Gap from Suches. The FS road isnt the best maintained and can be washboarded in summer months. The road up to Camp Merrill is paved and a better option, especially if coming North out of Dahlonega.