Pocket Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
Rain or Shine!
So happy with our short visit and plan to return!
252 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Lake Allatoona provides the primary camping destinations near Andersonville, Georgia, with multiple campgrounds managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Developed campgrounds like Payne, Sweetwater, and McKinney offer a mix of RV sites with hookups and tent camping areas along the shoreline. Most sites feature electric and water connections, with a limited number of full-hookup options available at select locations. Red Top Mountain State Park provides additional camping options, including cabins and yurts for those seeking more comfort, while tent campers can find primitive sites throughout the region.
Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with most Corps of Engineers sites open from March through September or early October. "Great campground right on Lake Allatoona! Many lakefront sites available and all within a no wake zone on the lake. Great for swimming and non motorized water activities," noted one visitor about Payne Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for premium waterfront sites which book quickly during summer months. The campgrounds typically feature restroom facilities of varying quality, with some campers reporting clean, well-maintained bathhouses while others mention dated facilities. Most camping areas have sanitary dump stations, though only select sites offer sewer hookups directly at campsites.
Lakefront camping represents the major draw for visitors to the region, with many sites positioned directly along the water's edge for easy access to swimming, fishing, and boating. Several reviews highlight the peaceful setting and opportunities for paddling, with one camper noting: "If you have a kayak, SUP or canoe, paddle back deep into the cove for some pristine and quiet areas." While waterfront sites receive the highest demand, many campgrounds also offer more secluded, shaded options set back from the shoreline. Campers frequently mention the family-friendly atmosphere and well-spaced sites at Sweetwater Campground, though some note that certain camping loops have sites positioned quite close together, particularly during peak season when privacy can be limited.
"I stayed at the walk- in campsites with waterfront view and access to walk down to the water. There is no electric at site and water didn’t work."
"Many were positioned right on the lake. The trails in the park were great for hiking and running. We enjoyed visiting the Qualusi Winery that was nearby."
from $40 - $275 / night
Check Availability"These are two completely different parks in two completely different parts of Georgia. SCofA does not have a mill, ruins, river or mountain trails. It does have a lake. Allatoona Lake."
"Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc."
from $24 - $290 / night
Check Availability"Georgia Veteran’s Memorial State Park, McKinney Campground on Allatoona Lake (north of Atlanta; a Corp of Engineer park) - very woodsy and a nice lake. Hiking, rafting/etc, and walking all around."
"Campground Review: This campground is an excellent place to stay not far outside of the bustling metropolis of Atlanta."
from $30 - $34 / night
Check Availability"Lots of sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet."
"Wanted to know every detail of everyone in our party, and my husband came late and I have to give notice for him to join us ( the campground is gated) Now the positives- It’s right on beautiful lake Allatoona"
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"This campground is full of beautiful lakeside sites! Many are well-spaced, but some are close together. We camped with our van in one of the tent sites because the rv sites were full."
"I didn't get a chance to snap pictures or videos but it is nestled along the shore of Lake Allatoona."
from $24 - $68 / night
Check Availability"There is also signage to verify that you are going the right way until you see the CG entrance. We pulled into the gate area and were checked in by the attendant on duty."
"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."
from $34 / night
Check Availability"If you want lake front, they got it! Almost all sites either have a view of the lake or are right on lake Allatoona! We tent camped here on site 45 in October 2017."
"Great water views and easy step down to the waters edge for fishing. In our area, the bathroom/shower combo is adequate but needs an update."
from $28 / night
Check Availability"The lake is beautiful. It’s quiet other than the occasional train whistles. The WiFi is pretty much non existent so don’t plan on that. Even with a booster we couldn’t pick it up."
"The bathrooms were pretty amazing compared to the last campground we were at which was also on alatoona lake as well. ( McKinney camp ground ) The first night we got here it was packed, like crazy packed"
from $42 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Lived in Georgia my whole life and yet my first time to Stone Mountain was literally three years ago. Now we have an annual pass and go all the time."
"One of the best camping areas in Georgia."
from $44 - $65 / night
Check Availability"My dad SCUBA dives quite a bit in a quarry nearby, so this is a great site for the family to stay with the camper."
"It also seems as though most have access to the lake and the bath houses are pretty clean."
from $24 - $34 / night
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So happy with our short visit and plan to return!
We have been here twice. Site 10 (on water) and 38 (next to playground. The sites are huge, everything is clean, hot steady flow water can be tricky but as a mom of 7, I love that it feels secluded but is close to target and Publix! Love this place and it is our go to when we visit the North Georgia Revival. Highly recommend!
We have now been to this campground three times - twice in the fall and now this last time in the spring. The fall foliage is beautiful and it's fun to get apples and such in Ellijay.
This time, there was definitely more boat and Jet Ski traffic, but did not take away from the beauty of the campground. The bathroom is older, but clean, and a bit of a hike down a hill and then back up the hill from the loop we were in, but not bad. We were glad to have a clean place to shower, nevertheless. There are lots of trees and the sites are rather spacious and nice, having water and electric hookups. Our site was lovely with a concrete pad and nice deck.
We have Verizon and had service at the site. We enjoyed our little mountain getaway very much!
I stayed at the walk- in campsites with waterfront view and access to walk down to the water. There is no electric at site and water didn’t work. The bathroom facilities are well maintained and whole place is really clean. This site was right next to parking other 3 are close but wagon recommended to haul items to other walk on sites.
Gorgeous campground on the lake with excellent facilities. Priority along the lake front is given to tent sites, which is nice. There's a mix of sizes for small campers and big RVs so it never feels crowded. Not a huge amount to do in the area except chill on the lake or at your site in the woods... which is fine by me. The one shortcoming was difficult lake access from the campground. There are plenty of beach areas when the lake is low but getting to them can be challenging. There's a public beach in another part of the park but we didn't go there.
Very crowded campground, tight sites, and dated facilities. Stayed one night on a through trip, so they let me stay with my custom built RV but they have a rule against it if you’re staying more than one night. I am not sure why because this isn’t an RV resort, it reminds me of an over crowded KOA. Good for business stay or a quick overnight but if you have a family and want room for your kids to play, I’d look elsewhere.
Spectacular scenery. The campground has two loops, both with nicely spaced out sites. We liked the creekside loop, but lakeside looked very nice as well. The lake is small but cold and clear, probably spring fed. The playground is average and they have a mini golf course that's cool. The camp store is excellent, though a drive from the campground. Also a short drive (or 3 mile hike) away is the star of the show- the overlook, tower and rock wall. Unbelievable views and great rocks to scramble and play on. The history of the mysterious rock Wall is intriguing. A great place to spend a few hours. The trails are numerous and well marked. We didn't see any bears or snakes. Overall a great place.
Decent spots, only thing is the Grill is part of the campfire ring and not separate
While there is a free dispersed campground nearby, it requires advanced registration on their website. This is a good spot for passers by who wing trips without reservations. It’s just a lot, but there is a portapotty. It is a trail head for the local greenway. There’s also a frisbee golf course next to the lot. The trail is posted no motorized vehicles, so take that into account if you have ebikes. The streams nearby do have fish that are easily caught as well as water snakes (non-venomous). Overall I’d recommend to not abuse it (don’t deploy any awnings, chairs, grills, etc in the lot), but it’s a quiet waypoint to stretch your legs and overnight.
Camping near Andersonville, Georgia centers on Lake Allatoona, located approximately 75 miles northwest of Andersonville. The region features moderately hilly terrain with elevations ranging from 840 to 940 feet and experiences humid subtropical climate conditions with hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Most campgrounds in the area provide electrical hookups rated for 50 amp service and feature asphalt camping pads surrounded by gravel living areas.
Hiking trails and historic sites: Red Top Mountain State Park offers hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. "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. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Swimming at designated beaches: Victoria Campground provides a large beach area. "Roomy campsites with good access to the lake, both for beach swimming and boating/fishing," explains Marty N. about Victoria Campground.
Fishing for multiple species: Lake Allatoona supports various fish species including crappie. "We always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," mentions Robin M. about McKinney Campground.
Kayaking in quiet coves: The lake features numerous sheltered areas perfect for paddlers. "If you have a kayak, SUP or canoe, paddle back deep into the cove for some pristine and quiet areas," advises a visitor.
Lakefront camping access: Most sites provide direct water access or views. "Every single plot had a beautiful view, plenty of space and power hookup, water etc. I've only camped with a tent, it's hard ground but loved it," says Dale C. about McKinney Campground.
Spacious, shaded campsites: Many campsites offer ample room between neighbors. "Very nice, clean and quiet place. Clean restrooms with showers and sinks. Beautiful beach and forest view. Table, grill and fire ring at every site. Tent sites right on the water. Plenty of shade," reports Stephanie J. about McKaskey Creek Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies by campground but some maintain high standards. "The bathrooms were pretty amazing compared to the last campground we were at which was also on alatoona lake as well," notes Ginger V. about Allatoona Landing.
Dedicated swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming beaches. "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it," explains Rodney G.
Train noise at some locations: Several campgrounds are located near active rail lines. "You can hear the train during the day, and a touch of the interstate at night, but the serenity is absolutely impeccable," reports The Grass F.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Nice campground and really enjoyed that we were on the water. However, many of the sites are very steep and slanted and causes difficulty getting your trailer or RV into the site. Makes leveling very difficult," warns Gary L.
Security considerations: Occasional theft has been reported. "After discussing the issue with the campground staff, we were informed that 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.
Seasonal operation: Most Army Corps campgrounds close during fall and winter. Victoria Campground operates only from "March 28 to October 6," while Sweetwater Campground runs from "March 15 to September 7."
Playgrounds for children: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This is a very newbie-friendly park on a pretty lake. The attendants were great and responsive. The spaces are well-equipped," shares Jane B. about Payne Campground.
Beach access considerations: Not all beaches are maintained equally. "The only downfall is the beach area- it is in a cove and the water level is often down," mentions Scarlett W. about Victoria Campground.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some locations particularly welcome families. "This is a family friendly park with lots of amenities. The sites are color coded depending on size and there is even a yurt to rent," explains Suzy E.
Safety precautions: Ensure children understand water safety rules. "Very kid friendly with a ton of kids running around so maybe not the best place for a quiet getaway," reports Scott K.
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully based on access and size. "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," warns Brock D. about Sweetwater Campground.
Dump station logistics: Plan for potential wait times. "Only has one dump station. The dump station gets really busy. They could really use 2 trash/dump sites as this is a large campground and it stays full," advises Joy W.
Electrical capacity: Most sites offer 50-amp service suitable for larger RVs. "The sites are well-equipped. My spot was 38 and had a brand new huge picnic table," notes Jane B.
Road navigation considerations: Internal roads can be challenging. "You really need to pay attention to the map. It's a little confusing but we watched the site numbers and figured that out," recommends Janice M.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Andersonville, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Andersonville, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 252 campgrounds and RV parks near Andersonville, GA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Andersonville, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Andersonville, GA is Red Top Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 81 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Andersonville, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Andersonville, GA.
What parks are near Andersonville, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Andersonville, GA that allow camping, notably Allatoona Lake and Lake Sidney Lanier.
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