Best Tent Camping near Alpharetta, GA

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Alpharetta? Find the best tent camping sites near Alpharetta. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Georgia tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Alpharetta, GA (32)

    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground

    1. Shady Grove Campground

    22 Reviews
    54 Photos
    144 Saves
    Cumming, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of Lake Sidney Lanier

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground

    2. Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    121 Photos
    265 Saves
    Lithia Springs, Georgia

    Sweetwater Creek State Park is a peaceful tract of wilderness only minutes from downtown Atlanta. A wooded trail follows the stream to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill burned during the Civil War. Beyond the mill, the trail climbs rocky bluffs to provide views of the beautiful rapids below. Additional trails wind through fields and forest, showcasing ferns, magnolias, wild azaleas and hardwoods. Park rangers lead informative hikes to these areas throughout the year.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Buford Dam Park Shelters (GA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buford Dam Park Shelters (GA)

    3. Buford Dam Park Shelters (GA)

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    6 Saves
    Cumming, Georgia

    Overview

    Buford Dam Park lies just north of Buford Dam on Lake Sidney Lanier. The site features beautiful views of the lake as well as excellent access to swimming, picnicking and boating.

    The lake, named for the poet, Sidney Lanier, is well known for its aqua-blue colored water, spectacular scenery and variety of recreational activities. Each year, over 7.5 million people come to visit.

    Natural Features:

    Lake Lanier boasts 38,000 surface acres, 690 miles of shoreline and over 100 small islands. Its location in the forested foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, makes for a beautiful backdrop to any activity.

    Recreation:

    Visitors can access the Laurel Ridge Hiking Trail from multiple locations and parks. The trail is a 3.5 mile loop that offers great views of the lake and Chattahoochee River. Fisherman can expect to catch a variety of species including bass, catfish and panfish. Activities include fishing, swimming, wake boarding, kayaking and hiking.

    Facilities:

    Bolding Mill Park offers access to a designated swim beach and the Laurel Ridge Hiking Trail. The park also offers a basketball court, soccer field, playground, picnic areas and restrooms.

    Nearby Attractions:

    Nearby attractions include boat ramps, other USACE parks, and Lake Lanier Islands.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available

      4. Hembree Park Campground

      2 Reviews
      9 Saves
      Roswell, Georgia

      The Hembree Park Campsite offers an area for individuals or groups to gather and enjoy nature within the safe environment of a City Park. The site can be used by individuals, families, civic groups, etc. The grounds include an open grass area, fire ring with log seating, 2 picnic tables, and 11 tent pads.

      There are no water/electrical hookups, or firewood on-site.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
      • No image available

        6. Naval Recreation Site

        2 Reviews
        4 Saves
        Emerson, Georgia
        • Pets
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        • Cabins
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Park

        8. Laurel Park

        4 Reviews
        4 Photos
        19 Saves
        Gainesville, Georgia
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter
        Camper-submitted photo from Springer Mountain Shelter

        9. Springer Mountain Shelter

        5 Reviews
        8 Photos
        54 Saves
        Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia

        Bear locker/box is provided, water is available but needs to be filtered/purified.

        Springer Mountain Shelter (3700 ft) to trail east on side trail with privy and reliable spring. Established tent sites nearby.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Picnic Table
        • Firewood Available
        • No image available

          10. James Shackleford Memorial Park

          1 Review
          14 Saves
          Auburn, Georgia

          This park is located at the intersection of Browns Bridge Road and Appalachee Church Road and was newly dedicated for the late Council member James Shackelford. Before its dedication and reopening, the park was renovated by Scout Troop 774. This park offers camping areas with shelters, and a beautiful nature trail that circles the park.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Reservable
          • ADA Access
          • Tents
          • Group
        Show More
        Showing results 1-10 of 32 campgrounds

        Recent Tent Reviews in Alpharetta

        911 Reviews of 32 Alpharetta Campgrounds


        • Jeff E.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Red Top Mountain State Park Campground
          Nov. 18, 2024

          Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

          Beautiful Lake Views - Near Atlanta and I-75

          Red Top Mountain State Park is beautiful and Lake Allatoona is large.  Campsite 50 is a premium tent only walk-in site (a few dollars more).  It sits on a point that sticks out in the lake.  There is no shade or tree cover, so it's not "private".  There are 3 other sites near by on the walk-in area and there are no boundaries or barriers between so your neighbors are in full view.  There is no electric near the tent pad, the electric pole is 150+ feet away near the parking area.  You probably could run 175 feet of electric extension cord... but it would have to run past the three other sites... so don't plan for electric.  There is water right by the pad with a ton of pressure.  The tent pad was large but extremely hard to drive tent stakes into... smaller stakes worked better.  The bathhouse was an uphill hike probably 300 ft away but was modern and clean with hot showers and good water pressure.  The park is clean and scenic.  The staff is very courteous, friendly and helpful.  There are plenty of opportunities to hike, fish and boat.

          This park is about 30-40 minutes outside of Atlanta right off of I-75.  If you are in a tent... you will hear I-75 traffic all night so keep in mind, that while it looks like country, you are not deep in nature... the drone of the highway will remind you.  There is a train that blows its whistle that will wake you up 3 times each night and also remind you that you are not deep in the woods.  The winding roads through the park outside the campground also seemed to be very popular with motorcyclists who like loud pipes.

          The name Red Top Mountain is derived from the red soil in the area that was popular for the mining of abundant iron ore.  But don't look for "mountains" here... you have to travel further north for more dramatic elevation.  

          Overall, a nice park, pretty scenery but not as secluded, quiet and relaxing as expected for tent camping.

        • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
          Nov. 13, 2024

          Panola Mountain State Park Campground

          Everything as promised

          We did an overnighter to check this out after doing a separate hike on the primary trails from the other side of the park in the morning. 

          Getting to the campsite was simple enough and it is the quoted 3/4 mile walk in. It was great to see some families utilizing the space. There is good cell reception (T-Mobile)

          Very peaceful and even had the sounds of a vibrant coyote pack.

        • Tia K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Campground
          Oct. 25, 2024

          Victoria Campground

          Peaceful spot

          Easy access to the lake for paddleboarding; lot was close enough to paddle 1/2 mile to day use area/marina restaurant. Nicely shaded and good proximity to restrooms.

        • Tia K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Campground
          Oct. 25, 2024

          Sweetwater Campground

          Shaded and spacious

          Easy access to Lake Alatoona with good views, minimal shade and access area was swampy on my lot but manageable. Water surprisingly chilly in summer from the Etowah River.

        • Tia K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Doll Mountain Campground
          Oct. 25, 2024

          Doll Mountain Campground

          Phenomenal View

          Beautiful mountain landscape over a calm lake, very quiet and little to no light pollution at night. Lots of trees for shade in the lots and easy access to the lake.

        • T
          Camper-submitted photo from Salacoa Creek Park
          Oct. 19, 2024

          Salacoa Creek Park

          Nice little campground, tent spots could be better

          I slept really well last night here, and the camp host and guests were just great. Heated bathhouse with warm shower was definitely a highlight on a chilly morning!

          Only downside in my mind was that I booked a tent site, only to find that the tent sites are down the hill from all the other sites, so if you book them you will have to haul your stuff down to the lake. It did sound like the night-time fishing would be awesome though!

        • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground
          Oct. 18, 2024

          Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground

          A quiet oasis away from RVs

          There's only limited camping here. There's several yurts and 5 walk-in tent sites. Yes, some of the reviews here are confusing this park with another. There's NO RV or TRAILER camping here. 

          The Yurts look awesome but do attract gaggles of families so be warned that if you're looking for a quiet get away then you may find yourself in the middle of a large family reunion that has no care for other campers. 

          The camping is isolated from the bustling 'core' of the park too. That's a nice change from other parks in the area. But you will also need to drive to the trailheads more than likely so take that into consideration when packing etc. 

          The tent sites run a little parallel to each other. I didn't go any look at the lake views from 5 at the back but expected it to be partial if that. Site 1 and 2 would be my first choice when I go back.

          There is also full cell reception given its proximity to Atlanta.

          Update: - Something else to know is that the visitor center called for 'check in' before we arrived and organized a wood drop off service.

        • Allen S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Red Top Mountain State Park Campground
          Oct. 12, 2024

          Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

          Beautiful campground with a couple of issues

          Recently stayed a couple of nights and was mostly impressed with the state park. I’m a tent camper but if I had an RV or trailer, I would definitely have trouble getting into my site (78). Many of the other sites I saw would have similar problems for trailer campers, as well. The park is in close proximity to I-75, so I could hear the distant sound of big rigs and the occasional police sirens. There is also railroad tracks somewhere that are close enough to hear train whistles in the wee hours of the morning. But the scenery of Lake Alatoona was beautiful and the staff I dealt with were all friendly and helpful. The bathroom facilities I used were very clean.

        • Kris
          Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta West Campground
          Oct. 12, 2024

          Atlanta West Campground

          Great place

          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, and the friendly seasonal campers really add to the community vibe. By the way, I just bought a camper with the help of radiant credit union customer service. Their customer service was so helpful in sorting out the financial side of things, which means I can now enjoy camping trips to places like Atlanta West Campground hassle-free!

        • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
          Oct. 2, 2024

          Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground

          Beautiful Trees with a cool breeze

          This place was great. We arrived after hours and spoke with the camp host he told us we can pay online or in the morning. We drove all day in the sun and due to hurricane Helene aftermath we were limited on where to stay. It was nice to pull in and it be nice and cool with the trees. The stars popped out at night and could be seen through the tree tops. Showers were hot.

        • Christine The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
          Aug. 26, 2024

          Don Carter State Park Campground

          Only a few campsites near the water

          Site 7 is separate from the others and has the whole point except there is a trail behind the site. No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have.

        • Jessica D.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Mckinney Campground
          Aug. 22, 2024

          Mckinney Campground

          Quiet, scenic, serene

          We stayed at site 125 with a full view of the lake. We could watch the sunset & the sunrise each day and it was incredible. There is plenty of tree cover & wilderness surrounding you. Bath houses were decent (albeit a little outdated). Our spot had a pretty bad ant infestation & they ended up getting into our trailer, which I had to scour with spray, etc. But what can you do? Just bring some supplies in case. What we really liked about this campground is how natural the surroundings are. You're really immersed in the wooded area with a view of the beautiful lake & the sounds of birdsong, etc. Good campground for bikes as things are spread out (swimming beach, bathhouses). We would certainly come back!

        • RThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Duckett Mill
          Aug. 18, 2024

          Duckett Mill

          Nice and Quiet

          Nice campsites with water and electricity. Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times.

        • Nik J.
          Camper-submitted photo from Bolding Mill
          Aug. 12, 2024

          Bolding Mill

          Nice place to stay

          We stayed in site 7 and we really enjoyed it. The site was clean and the pad was very level.

          We had a minor issue popping the 30amp breaker but switched over to the 50 amp adapter and all worked fine.

          Didn’t use the bath house but I did go check them out and they looked clean.

          I would caution big rigs on the first loop (sites 2 - 9) the loop at the back is pretty tight. We did fine with our 28’ TT but anyone over 30’ might want to consider the other loops.

          Driving through and looking at the other sites some of the picnic areas need to be reworked or at the very least mowed and weeded. If it wasn’t for that sort of stuff I would give it 5 stars.

        • D
          Camper-submitted photo from 411 River Rest Campground
          Aug. 3, 2024

          411 River Rest Campground

          Beautiful and peaceful

          We just finished our third RV trip at 411 River Rest CG—which was our seventh trip there over the past few years.  The campground is pretty and extremely well maintained.  The Coosawattee River is beautiful, as are the big trees that are a part of the facility.  The exceptionally large and tall sycamores are particularly nice!  The owners are friendly and they’re involved on a daily basis with the operations.  We already have two trips scheduled for 411 RR CG for next year!

        • American E.
          Camper-submitted photo from Ridgeway
          Jul. 12, 2024

          Ridgeway

          Campground Closed

          The campground road access continues to be closed as of July 10, 2024.

        • Angela B.
          Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
          Jul. 11, 2024

          Stone Mountain Park Campground

          Safari tent

          Tons of things to do train rides, gondola ride to the top, hiking and fireworks. Stayed in a safari tent a little worn down with duck tape on the screen. However, clean bathroom/showers and fun pool. A couple of crazy squirrels visit us every morning.

        • KThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy Creek Resort and Campground
          Jul. 9, 2024

          Kennedy Creek Resort and Campground

          Best kept Georgia mountains secret

          We found Kennedy Creek in September 2023 and have been back five times since then. The setting is absolutely beautiful with direct views of the mountains and sprawling grounds where the resort sits.

          They offer everything from tent or RV camping and yurts, to beautiful cabins. We’ve tent camped once and brought our RV five times. If you’re camping, expect spacious campsites with amazing views. You won’t feel crowded in this place. If RVing, you can opt for a site with 30 amp electrical hookup and water (3 of these at present on a first come first basis and usually available). They do have showers so we didn’t come close to filling our gray/black tanks on our recent 5 day stay. What I like as an RVer is the open space and views. You won’t feel like you’re in a crowded RV park that’s for sure.

          Their onsite tavern and restaurant is a great gathering place and is usually opened starting with Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast. The menu is top notch with special dishes that change regularly. John is the chef and he puts out some of the best food you’ll find in these beautiful mountains!

          The resort also has a 2000’ x 60’ grass runway (GA87) which is absolutely gorgeous. In my opinion this should be a bucket list destination for all pilots that can manage to get in to 2000’ fields. The owner has a beautiful Just Superstol XL bush plane and a Highlander, and he can usually be found flying most Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. You might even get invited to go flying :-)

          The staff is super friendly and will take great care of you during your stay. It won’t take long for you to realize that they absolutely care about you and your experience. They’ll go out of their way to make sure you enjoy their little slice of paradise.

          This probably sounds like a paid advertisement but I’m just a happy camper that hopes this place experiences the success it deserves. I’ve been to Ellijay, Helen, Blairsville, Dahlonega, and a lot of other well known mountain spots, and this place is my favorite by far.

        • j
          Camper-submitted photo from Calhoun A-OK Campground
          Jun. 30, 2024

          Calhoun A-OK Campground

          Terrible breed restrictions

          I didn’t get the chance to have an experience because they would not even rent to me because I have mixed breed rescue dogs.

        • Meaghan G.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Desoto Falls Recreation Area
          Jun. 29, 2024

          Desoto Falls Recreation Area

          Perfectly Rainy Summer Night

          Site 23 is perfect if you’re looking for a huge, private, creekside site. It was just a short walk to the outhouse and water pump, but a longer trek to the bathhouse, but the other features of this site were worth it. This huge site has the perfect trees for swinging your hammock over the creek, lots of shade, and easy access to wade in the creek. The campground was clean and well maintained, the hosts were friendly, and the weather was pleasant for late June. I can’t wait to go back!

        • Monica
          Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy Creek Resort and Campground
          Jun. 24, 2024

          Kennedy Creek Resort and Campground

          Hair on linens, heater not working; no reasonable remedy

          I booked a yurt for my husband while I was hiking the AT. The manager was very polite until I complained later. When my husband arrived, he could not locate the yurt, because the name had been changed, and I was not told. The bed was made up with (animal) haired imbedded into the comforter and hair on the linens, which the manager was witness to and changed himself. The heater did not work. My intention was for my husband to enjoy the resort and its amenities, but he wouldn't go to the tavern after tge other experiences. Per our conversation, the manager agreed to a monetary refund that we never saw. After a month, I left a message asking for a call and I received a text saying that he would give us a $35 gift card to the tavern (which we can never use). I asked for a phone call and was told that he didn't have to call me, because this was his final offer.

        • A
          Camper-submitted photo from Gatewood Park Campground
          Jun. 24, 2024

          Gatewood Park Campground

          Don't

          This place was a nightmare. I booked primitive site #4, that whole site is on a hill, the only flat place is where you park, and that's not really flat either. Needless to say it was difficult to set anything up; tents, food, games, etc... The campsites at this campground are very close together, and unfortunately our neighbors were very inconsiderate blasting country music all night long, they literally pulled an all-nighter, no joke, even after my wife and I asked them to turn the concert down at 3:30am, they got silent for about 1 to 2 minutes, and then started it right back up. The lake area where you swim is pretty gross, there are tons of people in a relatively small area, and pontoon boats pull right up to where the rope is that contains the swim area and cook out on their grills smoking out the swim area while idling petrol fumes and exhaust in to the water. We did manage to have some fun with making a fire, and although the lake was disgusting, it did feel good because it was 100 degrees outside. We decided to pack up and leave a day early, it was that bad. Find another campground to go to, or change your dates of your trip to avoid this place, do whatever you need to do to not end up here.

        • Greg S.
          Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Campground
          Jun. 18, 2024

          Victoria Campground

          4.7 stars

          This is a smaller COE campground than most we have stayed at, which is nice in a way. The playground and beach were never crowded, and it was pretty quiet with the exception of the boat traffic. The campground is right next to a public boat ramp, beach, marina, and restaurant. It's super convenient but not as quiet as some other COE places. We loved it because we brought our boat and tied it up by our site. The sites are not huge but plenty big, and there are many great waterfront spots. Ours was nice for swimming with clean water and a nice drop-off. It is a mixed bag in terms of privacy. While there was plenty of space between us and our neighbors, the sites were laid out so that even with our campers hooked up, we could always see each other. Took away slightly from the experience, but it was still a very fun place. We will go back next summer. I think that 22 is the best spot, followed by the waterfront pull-through spots on the cove.


        Drive Time


        Guide to Alpharetta

        Tent camping near Alpharetta, Georgia offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of well-maintained facilities. With a variety of campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

        Tips for tent camping near Alpharetta

        • Shady Grove Campground provides a serene environment with plenty of shade, making it ideal for a comfortable camping experience.
        • Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground features limited camping options, including yurts and walk-in tent sites, perfect for those seeking a quieter getaway.
        • James Shackleford Memorial Park offers a peaceful atmosphere with access to outdoor activities, ensuring a fulfilling camping trip.

        Tent campers should check out Shady Grove Campground

        • At Shady Grove Campground, you can enjoy a well-maintained site with drinking water and a sanitary dump station.
        • The campground is known for its abundant wildlife, particularly deer, which adds to the natural charm of your stay.
        • With no electric hookups, it’s a great place to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of tent camping.

        Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $40

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Alpharetta, GA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Alpharetta, GA is Shady Grove Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Alpharetta, GA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 32 tent camping locations near Alpharetta, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.