Lake Allatoona serves as the primary camping destination near Emerson, Georgia, with water levels that can fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach and boat ramp access. The region experiences warm temperatures from May through September, with highs averaging 85-95°F during peak summer months. Many campgrounds offer boat access options with varying proximity to Interstate 75.
What to do
Swimming and beaches: Victoria Campground features a "beautiful big beach" for swimming. According to Lauren W., "This campground has a beautiful big beach! Boat ramps also." While McKaskey Creek Campground provides a designated swimming area near its playground.
Paddling opportunities: The coves at Payne Campground offer quiet areas for non-motorized water sports. Robert T. mentions, "If you have a kayak SUP or canoe paddle back deep into the cove for some pristine and quiet areas." Asia B. notes, "We had a secluded, beautiful primitive site with rocky lake access that we managed to get our kayak onto the water on."
Hiking and historical trails: Several campgrounds connect to hiking paths. At Sweetwater Campground, Elaine G. recommends exploring beyond the campsites: "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike."
What campers like
Spacious sites: McKinney Campground receives praise for its well-designed layout. Howard L. notes, "Nice camp sites, lots of room between sites, most road are one way so maneuvering the campers around are easier." Susan H. adds that "Sites are large and well placed. Many sites with lakeview to choose from."
Lake proximity: Clark Creek North Campground offers rare universal water access. Kathy B. describes it as "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."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate the natural setting. Susan H. mentions "Always see deer and other wildlife" at McKinney Campground. At Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing, Ginger V. notes, "There's tons of duck and geese that just walk right into your site.. which is really entertaining for children."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway and train noise affect some campgrounds. Adriana C. points out that Old Highway 41 Campground "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." At Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing, Joseph C. warns "the train is LOUD."
Terrain challenges: Many sites feature uneven ground. Gary L. notes at McKinney Campground, "many of the sites are very steep and slanted and causes difficulty getting your trailer or RV into the site. Makes leveling very difficult." At Victoria Campground, Lauren W. had to "change our site" because their pull-through was "way too narrow with a turn."
Security concerns: A few campgrounds have reported thefts. Chris C. shares a cautionary tale about Clark Creek North: "locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground." Most campgrounds have gated access with limited entry hours.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Sweetwater Campground provides multiple recreation options. Maethea R. notes, "You can also rent kayaks and go out on the lake. There's a large camp store and the staff is very helpful and friendly." Rodney G. adds, "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. At McKaskey Creek Campground, Diana H. mentions it's "kid friendly with a nice playground, kept very clean." Kaity H. adds that sites have "plenty of trees to put up a hammock!"
Family-specific sites: Look for double sites when camping with extended family. Mike P. shares about Old Highway 41 Campground: "We stayed in the double site with 2 campers and a couple tents. Plenty of room for everyone."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Red Top Mountain State Park Campground presents navigation difficulties for larger rigs. Brock D. observes, "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."
RV site selection: Consider site placement carefully. At Victoria Campground, Lauren W. notes, "Sites are very narrow, with a drop off. We had to change our site. We had pull thru, but way too narrow with a turn. We have a 36 LA Tiffin Open Road. Changed our site, and it was great!"
Hookup availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. Matt H. points out at Payne Campground: "Keep in mind there is no septic hookup at these campgrounds. They do have 15/30/50A power and water hookups." At Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing, Logan notes "Most sites don't have sewer hookup but there is a dump station and randomly placed gray water dumps which aren't really accessible while parked unless you have a 50'+ hose."
