Jenkins Springs Campsite

For Georgia locals seeking a truly immersive outdoor experience, away from the typical amenities of developed campgrounds, Jenkins Springs Campsite offers an authentic backcountry adventure. Located along the renowned Pine Mountain Trail (PMT) in Pine Mountain, Georgia, this campsite is designed for hikers and backpackers who appreciate a more rustic and self-sufficient approach to camping. It's a fantastic stopping point for those exploring the PMT, providing a peaceful overnight haven amidst the beauty of Georgia's natural landscapes. This article is crafted specifically for residents of Georgia, highlighting the unique appeal and practical considerations of Jenkins Springs Campsite for your next wilderness excursion.

Georgia's diverse topography, from its mountainous regions to its rolling hills, provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pine Mountain Trail, situated within F.D. Roosevelt State Park, is a celebrated pathway that showcases some of this natural splendor. Jenkins Springs Campsite embodies the spirit of backcountry camping, where the focus is on reconnecting with nature without the distractions of modern conveniences. This type of camping encourages self-reliance, respect for the environment, and a deeper appreciation for the tranquility of the wilderness. For those in Georgia who enjoy hiking and primitive camping, understanding the specific features of Jenkins Springs Campsite will help in planning a rewarding and memorable trip, ensuring they are well-prepared for an authentic outdoor experience.

Jenkins Springs Campsite boasts a prime backcountry location within F.D. Roosevelt State Park, near Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA. While it doesn't have a direct street address in the traditional sense, its coordinates are V658+H6V, Pine Mountain, GA 31822. This campsite is strategically positioned along the extensive Pine Mountain Trail, making it an ideal stop for those undertaking multi-day hikes or for shorter overnight backpacking trips. It is located 3/10 of a mile east of Mile Marker 8 on the Pine Mountain Trail. The secluded nature of the campsite ensures a genuine wilderness experience, away from road noise and artificial lights.

Accessing Jenkins Springs Campsite requires a hike along the Pine Mountain Trail, underscoring its backcountry nature. It is not a drive-up campground. Hikers can access the campsite from a couple of popular parking lots:

• From Fox Den Cove Parking Lot: Hike east approximately 2.1 miles. You will cross a small spring, and the access trail to the campsite will be on your left (north side of the trail) just beyond it.
• From Mollyhugger Hill Parking Lot: Hike west approximately 2.8 miles. The access trail and a wooden sign will be on your right.

The access trail to the campsite from the main PMT is white-blazed and crosses a small bridge to reach the site. It’s noted as being only a couple of miles in from either the Molly Hugger or Fox Den parking lots, making it "very doable" for an easy night of backcountry camping. All backcountry camping in F.D. Roosevelt State Park, including Jenkins Springs Campsite, requires a reservation and a check-in permit. Visitors must stop by the visitor's center to pick up their permit at least two hours before dark, even with a reservation. This ensures safety and proper management of the park's resources. The well-marked trails and clear directions provided by the Pine Mountain Trail Association contribute to the ease of accessibility for experienced hikers.

As a backcountry campsite, Jenkins Springs offers essential, yet rustic, services to support an overnight stay in the wilderness. It is designed for self-sufficient campers who come prepared.

• Tent Camping: The campsite provides "plenty of flat spots for tents," accommodating numerous tents. There is room for about 10 tents and up to 20 campers total.
• Water Source: A crucial service for backcountry camping, there is a "stream nearby for water," and the "water source is marked with a sign in the northwest corner of camp." This is a natural spring, providing a reliable water source (treatment recommended before consumption).
• Fire Ring: The campsite features "a good fire pit with logs to sit on" or "a metal fire ring with a built-in grill for open fire cooking." Note that campfires are only permitted on sites with established fire rings and are subject to fire bans, as one reviewer mentioned.
• Designated Campsite: Backcountry camping at Jenkins Springs is by reservation and check-in permit only, ensuring that campers use a designated and managed site.

Jenkins Springs Campsite boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Georgia's backcountry enthusiasts.

• Perfect Stopping Point on the Pine Mountain Trail: Its location along the PMT makes it an ideal overnight stop for hikers traversing the trail, breaking up longer excursions into manageable segments.
• Secluded Natural Setting: The campsite is nestled "in a fantastic little hollow," providing a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature. "Nice foliage" offers shade and enhances the natural ambiance.
• Reliable Water Source: The presence of a year-round spring, easily accessible via steps, is a significant highlight for backpackers, ensuring a steady supply of water (to be treated).
• Suitable for Both Tent and Hammock Camping: While one reviewer noted that trees in the cleared area might be too small or far apart for hammocks, another explicitly stated, "if you prefer sleeping in a hammock, there are a couple sets of trees with good spacing," offering flexibility for different sleeping preferences.
• Established Fire Ring with Grill: The presence of a metal fire ring with a built-in grill is a convenient feature for preparing meals over an open fire (when no fire ban is in effect).
• Well-Maintained by Volunteers: The Pine Mountain Trail Association (PMTA) and volunteers are actively involved in building and maintaining the campsite and trails, ensuring a positive experience for hikers.
• Proximity to Parking Lots: Its relatively short distance from Fox Den Cove and Mollyhugger Hill parking lots makes it accessible even for first-time backpackers or those with younger campers looking for an easy night of backcountry camping.
• Wildlife Viewing: As a natural, undeveloped area, it offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, contributing to the wilderness experience.

For direct inquiries regarding Jenkins Springs Campsite, especially for reservations and check-in permits, it's best to contact the F.D. Roosevelt State Park office, as this campsite falls under their management as part of the Pine Mountain Trail system.

Address: V658+H6V, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA (This is the general area, not a physical office location for the campsite itself)

Phone: (706) 663-4858 (This phone number connects to F.D. Roosevelt State Park Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 706-663-4858 (Same as above, directs to F.D. Roosevelt State Park Office)

Reservations for backcountry sites like Jenkins Springs are typically made through the Georgia State Parks reservation system (e.g., ReserveAmerica or ExploreMoreIL for Georgia State Parks, as is common for state park campgrounds). Always confirm the check-in permit process at the park visitor's center before heading to the campsite.

In conclusion, Jenkins Springs Campsite stands as an excellent choice for Georgia locals who are drawn to authentic backcountry camping and hiking. Its prime location along the scenic Pine Mountain Trail within F.D. Roosevelt State Park provides immediate access to stunning natural beauty, diverse foliage, and a reliable natural water source. While it offers a rustic experience without the conveniences of developed campgrounds, it provides essential amenities like established tent spots and fire rings, making it ideal for self-sufficient adventurers.

Despite the occasional presence of fire bans, the opportunity to enjoy a crackling campfire under the stars, combined with the solitude and immersive nature experience, makes it highly appealing. For Georgia residents, whether seasoned backpackers or those looking to introduce themselves to the joys of primitive camping with a relatively easy hike in, Jenkins Springs Campsite offers a unique and rewarding escape. It's a place to disconnect, challenge oneself gently, and forge a deeper connection with the untouched wilderness that our beautiful state has to offer, right here in Pine Mountain.

Jenkins Springs Campsite

V658+H6V, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA