Red Top Mountain State Park and Stone Mountain Park offer alternatives to traditional camping near Acworth, Georgia. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 900 feet elevation, this area features rolling terrain with dense mixed hardwood forests surrounding Lake Allatoona, a 12,000-acre reservoir created by the Army Corps of Engineers in 1950. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Clark Creek North Campground, visitors can explore walking paths with lake access from every site. "Clark Creek North is a small gem tucked along the shore of Lake Allatoona just north of Atlanta. It is small with just 24 spots equipped with water and electric and every spot has water access," notes Kathy B.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Allatoona provides excellent fishing conditions year-round. "We always stop here on our trips down to florida and we always stay a couple days as we love to get a waterfront site and they are nice, clean sites with lots of shade and pet friendly. We love to fish and we always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," shares Robin M. from Mckinney Campground.
Swimming at designated beaches: Many campsites offer swimming areas with no lifeguards present. "My daughter and I went camping here for 2 nights right on the beach it was like having the beach all to ourselves. We went on a weekday so the people at the front actually let us switch sites so we could get the one we wanted," reports Sharrah B. about her experience at Clark Creek North.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At COE Allatoona Lake Old Highway 41, campers appreciate the separation between spots. "Loved this little campground. Roads are narrow and asphalt sites are narrow. But beautiful views of the lake. Could hear a train but no highway/interstate noise at our waterfront site #47," writes Maggie C.
Family-oriented facilities: Stone Mountain Park Campground receives high marks for its amenities. "The campground offers everything you would ever need. There are tons of things to do from Golf, hiking, zoo, laser show, food and you can hike the mountain or take a ride to the top," explains Holly B.
Tent camping options: Yurt camping near Acworth, Georgia isn't the only way to enjoy the outdoors. Traditional tent sites also provide solid experiences. "This isnt for backpackers but for camping with your family, its good. They have water and outlets and very very clean bathrooms. Like cleaner than a Publix bathroom. Kid friendly," says Cris C. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds. "This place is nice overall. Lots of sites are water front, that's a plus. But it is so close to i75 that the sound of traffic is constant; during the day is manageable but at night it makes it hard to sleep if you are in a tent and are a silent sleeper," cautions Adriana C. about COE Allatoona Lake Old Highway 41.
Site selection matters: When seeking yurt rentals or camping near Acworth, Georgia, choosing the right site can make or break your experience. "We stayed in site 21 and had a great time. Decent bathrooms/bath house. Sites were on the water and great sizes," notes Maddie K. about Mckinney Campground.
Security concerns: At some campgrounds, visitors should take precautions with valuables. "While this great little park should deserve 4.5-5 stars, we had an unfortunate experience while we were there. My family of 5 were on the lake-side of our little 22ft TT while someone less fortunate than us decided to steal my 9yr old daughter's new bike," warns Chris C. from Clark Creek North.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms make family camping more comfortable. "Peaceful setting, very clean. Shower house is clean and well maintained also has laundry facilities. Hosts are friendly. Has lots of power and water sites as well as tent sites with nice gravel tent pads," shares Terri P. about Clark Creek South Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with features that entertain children. "We had an amazing visit!! All the staff were extremely helpful and sweet. Shower house was clean, laser show fabulous and while hiking we saw a lot of beautiful wildlife!!!" enthuses Jennifer T. about her stay at Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Off-peak visits: For a quieter experience with luxury camping or yurt options near Acworth, Georgia, consider weekday stays. "We went on a weekday so the people at the front actually let us switch sites so we could get the one we wanted since we booked over the phone before looking," recommends Sharrah B.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require adjustment for RVs. "Great week. The only downfall was that the trailer needed a lot of leveling. But it was totally worth it. Our site was on the lake. My husband and son enjoyed fishing and paddle boarding right behind our site," notes Susan K. about her experience at Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Narrow access roads: RVs may face challenges navigating some campgrounds. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in. Sites were very narrow," cautions Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Early reservations: For Winding Waters RV Resort, planning ahead is essential. "The RV park is enormous, new and extremely well-kept. Our spot was next to the Etowah River and was one of the few that is on gravel and not concrete. The few gravel lots are among the quietest of this very busy place," reports James E.