Top Free Dispersed Camping near Athens, GA

Camping near Athens, Georgia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground, have stunning trails. One visitor mentioned, "Nice trails with beautiful scenery, the hike to the base of the Gorge is strenuous with LOTS of stair steps back up but if you can do it certainly worth it."
• Water Activities: At Mistletoe State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking and fishing. A camper shared, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!"
• Family Fun: Fort Yargo State Park Campground has playgrounds and trails. One family said, "We played putt-putt golf, walked along the dam, and played on the playgrounds."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Don Carter State Park Campground noted, "Clean and well-maintained including the facilities."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground said, "The camp host was very friendly."
• Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Stone Mountain Park Campground offer beautiful views. A camper remarked, "Beautiful location with a lake view."

What you should know

• Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to."
• Additional Fees: Be prepared for extra costs, like parking fees at certain parks. One camper at Stone Mountain Park Campground noted, "On top of the $70 a night you must pay a $20 parking fee."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell pointed out, "The bathrooms were dated and dirty with poor lighting."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. One family at Indian Springs State Park Campground enjoyed, "There were lots of other kids there to play with during our 3-night stay."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Fort Yargo State Park Campground mentioned, "We took to the pathways with our dog and enjoyed the many animals roaming through the woods."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at Mistletoe State Park Campground said, "This place has everything, even cheap laundry!"

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tugaloo State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads were a little narrow for larger rigs but look to be well maintained."
• Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with the dump station locations. A visitor at Don Carter State Park Campground noted, "Dump station is on the way out."
• Reserve Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Unicoi State Park & Lodge advised, "Not paying $75 a night for a campsite. This place has gone downhill since the private company took it over!"

Camping around Athens, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!