Tent campsites near Allatoona Lake provide varying accessibility options for campers seeking primitive outdoor experiences. The area includes several tent-only locations within a 30-mile radius with basic amenities that operate seasonally. Weather conditions in north Georgia affect camping comfort, with summer highs averaging 88°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing during December through February.
What to do
Water recreation at Ridgeway Park: The waterway access at this park makes it popular for paddlers. "If you paddle go to ridgeway recreational area. Put in, go right short paddle to Waterfall. Go left into the unknown," reports a camper at Ridgeway.
Stargazing from secluded sites: The distance from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At Woodring Branch Primitive Campground, a visitor shared their experience: "We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world."
Swimming in Lake Carters: Several tent sites provide water access for swimming during warmer months. "We went swimming and exploring. It did not feel overcrowded or busy," notes a camper who visited Woodring Branch during summer.
What campers like
Complete solitude: Many tent campers appreciate the isolation available at certain sites. A visitor at Hidden Creek Campground noted they "found this place and setup our campsite very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here."
Affordable pricing: Budget-conscious campers can find economical options in the area. A Woodring Branch camper mentioned, "$10 a night was a bargain and I did not expect much. The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept."
Ready-to-use sites: Some locations offer prepared camping setups. At Serenity Ridge, a guest reported, "You don't need camping gear. A tent or two can be set up, ready for you. Cooler stocked with ice. Firewood stacked by the fire pit, ready for you to roast hotdogs or s'mores!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several primitive sites requires careful driving. At Hidden Creek, a reviewer cautioned, "The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks. We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES."
GPS reliability issues: Navigation systems may not accurately direct you to some locations. "GPS isn't perfect. It will take u to someone's private property next door. Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use," warns a Hidden Creek camper.
Campground closures: Check current status before traveling. A recent visitor to Ridgeway noted, "The campground road access continues to be closed as of July 10, 2024."
Limited amenities: Many tent sites lack basic facilities. At Hembree Park Campground, a visitor clarified, "It's not an RV park, they said there's is a little section of the park for rv but non hookups of any kind."
Tips for camping with families
Tent-only areas benefit families: Sites without RVs can provide safer play spaces. A Woodring Branch camper observed, "I love that this was a tent only camping site (no RVs). The sites were a bit smaller than I would have liked but as it was just the 10 sites on the road, the kids could safely play in the road."
Community atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster a neighborly environment. At Hembree Park, a camper stated, "We in joy the freedom and the neighbors are very friendly."
Prepared camping options: Families new to camping can utilize sites with ready setups. At Hideaway Park, a visitor noted, "The prices are great for your stay, too," making it an economical option for families testing their interest in camping.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent campsites near Allatoona Lake cannot accommodate larger RVs. One reviewer from Atlanta West Campground shared, "This is much more of a mobile home or RV park than a campground since most of the people staying here are set up for long term residency rather than for a night or two."
Check vehicle clearance: Low-clearance RVs should avoid certain sites. A Hidden Creek visitor advised, "There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Convenience factor: Some campgrounds offer proximity to major roads. A reviewer noted, "The campsite's proximity to I-20 makes it super convenient to get to. It's a great spot for a quick trip or a longer stay."
