GA 190 (Mile 11) to Whiskey Still Campsite

The Pine Mountain Trail is a 23-mile footpath that crosses and follows the Pine Mountain Ridge through west-central Georgia. The trail is located within Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, near Callaway Gardens, and is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers from throughout the state. The route passes through a varied landscape of hardwood forests, pine stands, rocky ridges, small valleys, and seasonal streams, with numerous overlooks and other points of interest along the way. Much of the surrounding land was once associated with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose Little White House was located nearby in Warm Springs and whose rural retreat and farm were part of the landscape surrounding Pine Mountain. Today, the trail is maintained by volunteers associated with the Pine Mountain Trail Association and is known for its generally moderate terrain, with relatively few extended or particularly steep climbs. Originally developed in 1975, the Pine Mountain Trail has become one of Georgia’s better-known long-distance hiking routes and now attracts more than 50,000 hikers and backpackers each year. Its combination of manageable elevation changes, scenic mountain views, accessible trailheads, and established backcountry campsites makes it suitable for both day hikers and those looking for a longer backpacking experience.

Backcountry permits are required for all overnight campsites along the Pine Mountain Trail, and individual sites are limited to no more than 15 people at any one time. Whiskey Still Campsite is one of the more accessible overnight destinations and can be reached relatively easily from a parking area located off GA 190. From the trailhead, the Pine Mountain Trail descends approximately 0.9 miles through the forest to the campsite, which sits in a secluded valley below the ridge. A spring is located nearby and provides a natural water source, although its availability can vary with seasonal conditions and hikers should be prepared to treat or filter any water collected there. The campsite offers several level areas suitable for tents, making it a convenient option for hikers who do not want to commit to a long backcountry approach. A shared community firepit provides a central gathering place where campers can relax and socialize in the evening. Although Whiskey Still is a relatively short hike from the road, its wooded setting and position in the valley give it a more remote feel than its easy accessibility might suggest.