Glamping in Alpharetta, Georgia offers access to Lake Lanier's 38,000 acres of water and 692 miles of shoreline. The area sits at approximately 1,071 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. Most glamping sites remain open year-round with peak season running May through September when lake temperatures reach comfortable swimming levels in the mid-70s.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: Red Top Mountain State Park Campground offers interconnected trails surrounding the park with scenic lake vistas. "The trail around the lake is good and in the winter it is not too far north has to be too cold to get outside in a tent," notes Anna R.
Family-friendly attractions: Within 30-45 minutes of most campgrounds, you can reach metropolitan Atlanta attractions. "There's all kind of activities for the kids. They have free transportation within the park/campground area. Helpful staff too," explains Harvey B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife spotting times. "Plenty of deer just walking around. A lot of deer just walking around," reports darrel W. at Shady Grove County Campground. The area is home to white-tailed deer, various bird species and smaller mammals.
Water recreation beyond swimming: Many campers bring kayaks to explore the lake's coves and islands. "My husband and son enjoyed fishing and paddle boarding right behind our site. There was a lot to see and do," shared Susan K. about her Stone Mountain Park experience.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Most glamping sites feature concrete or gravel pads with ample room for setup. "Site 32 - Nice level site. Plenty of room for us... Very close to the lakeshore. Morning and afternoon shade, otherwise pretty direct sun overhead around noon," notes Kevin Z. about Bald Ridge Creek.
Privacy between sites: Despite being popular destinations, many sites offer good separation. "Most spots provide complete privacy from your neighbors because of all the trees. It is comfortable to both RV and tent campers," says Kathy B. about Clark Creek North Campground.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower houses receive regular maintenance throughout high season. "Bathroom facilities are clean. Plenty of hot water. Gave it 4 stars only because I thought the swim beach could have been more clear of stuff that washed up," reports Kevin Z.
Scenic sunrise and sunset views: Waterfront sites provide optimal viewing for daily light shows. "Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)," shares Christy C. about Bald Ridge Creek.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds feature challenging terrain for larger rigs. "If you are a big rig, it would be wise to call the office and have them assist you in choosing a site that will accommodate a larger rig," advises MickandKarla W. about Clark Creek North.
Noise factors: Despite natural settings, some locations experience traffic or boat noise. "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," reports Jeff E. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Alcohol policies vary: Different management entities maintain different rules. "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here... Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00," warns Rick B. about Shady Grove Campground.
Reservation windows: Most sites can be booked 6-12 months in advance, with holiday weekends filling quickly. "This is our go to Lake and this is a small, quiet, clean campground. The hosts are friendly and sites are kept clean," notes Kim M. about Clark Creek North.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Not all waterfront sites have direct swimming access. "Most of the sites are lake-side and very large with a paved drive... Water is warm, a little muddy by shore but clear as you get further out," explains Christy C.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "Rangers were very nice, beach is cool, nice lake front sites. We had a fun time here, especially the kids. They loved riding their bikes around in this great family friendly campground," shares Rick B. about Bald Ridge Creek.
Security awareness: Take precautions with belongings, especially bicycles and outdoor equipment. "Locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground," cautions Chris C. about Clark Creek North.
Educational opportunities: Amicalola Falls State Park Camping offers nature programs for kids. "The hike to the top was a challenge, but the views were worth it," mentions Judy B., while another visitor notes, "They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Pack extra leveling blocks for uneven sites. "We were able to get our rig into the levelist position possible to get our rig's steps down to an assessable position and fairly level, but we did need to add levelers to our steps and the passenger-side tires," explains MickandKarla W.
Dump station considerations: Some facilities have challenging layouts. "They have an interesting dump station set up where you climb a fairly steep hill. This station would be good for shorter rigs," advises MickandKarla W. about Clark Creek North.
Campground navigation: Several locations have narrow roads that require careful maneuvering. "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," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain.
Full hookup availability: Margaritaville offers complete amenities for longer stays. "We had a pave site full hookup pull thru with lake view. Very easy to get in and out, private and quiet, we had a picnic table, fire ring and bbq grill," reports Fanny D.
