Camping sites near Rydal, Georgia center around Lake Allatoona, which spans 12,010 acres with 270 miles of shoreline. The region sits at approximately 840 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and winter lows frequently dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds open in March or April and close between September and November, though several operate year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McKaskey Creek Campground provides direct water access for anglers. "We had a site near the bathrooms and playground but there were plenty of trees so it felt like we had privacy. You could walk down to the water from the campsite," notes one visitor who enjoyed fishing and family time.
Swimming beaches: Sweetwater Campground offers a dedicated swimming area. "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it," shares Rodney G., who found the family-friendly atmosphere perfect for water activities.
Historical hiking: Explore the remnants of iron ore mining along Sweetwater Creek's trails. "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike," explains Elaine G., highlighting educational opportunities beyond swimming and boating.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Always see deer and other wildlife," mentions Susan H. about her stays at lakeside campgrounds, particularly during cooler months when animals are most active.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Doll Mountain Campground receives praise for its well-designed layout. "The sites are tucked into the trees, lots of great spots for your hammock! We stayed at a walk-in site, but were still close to a pit toilet and our car," explains Dalhya L., emphasizing the campground's balance of privacy and convenience.
Clean facilities: Clark Creek North Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms. "Shower house is clean and well maintained also has laundry facilities," reports Terri P., who appreciated the credit card-operated washer ($3) and dryer ($2) during longer stays.
Lake access: "Every spot has 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," shares Dale C. about Mckinney Campground, highlighting how nearly all sites offer some form of water access.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers mention the peaceful setting at several lake campgrounds, particularly during weekdays. "Very quiet (you can setup a hammock and take a nice nap) and kid friendly with a nice playground, kept very clean," says Diana H. about her experience at a lakeside campground.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature steep terrain with significant elevation changes. "It is a mountain so it's steep terrain," explains Eva S. about Doll Mountain, while another camper notes, "If your bike riding you will get your exercise."
Limited sewer hookups: Most campgrounds offer water and electric but not sewer connections. "Most sites don't have sewer hookup but there is a dump station and randomly placed gray water dumps," reports a camper at Allatoona Landing.
Seasonal operation: Salacoa Creek Park and several other campgrounds operate seasonally, typically April through October. "The campground entrance is 10 miles on the right off the Redbud Rd exit. Only con is not a lot of shade in the campsites," advises Sarah H.
Train noise: Campgrounds near Cartersville experience train noise. "The trains run pretty close by the campground roughly on the hour," warns one camper, while another mentions, "It's quiet other than the occasional train whistles."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There is a playground in the campground and a beach with another playground in the nearby day use area," notes Glenn M., who found Salacoa Creek Park ideal for families with young children.
Beach swimming: Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing offers beach swimming options. "I would definitely stay here again! Plenty of space for the kids to play and just walk right into the water," shares Ginger V., who enjoyed the campground's child-friendly amenities.
Junior Ranger activities: Red Top Mountain State Park offers educational programming. "Friendly staff, with the Jr ranger program still going with the help of adult campers during covid. Still so much fun and so clean and beautiful!!" reports Cheryl C.
Site selection for tent camping: Choose sites away from the highway for quieter nights. "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," warns Jeff E. about certain sites.
Tips from RVers
Challenging roads: Several campgrounds have narrow access roads with tight turns. "Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," cautions Brock D. about navigating larger rigs through wooded campgrounds.
Site leveling: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "My buddy said the asphalt was not level and he had a hard time leveling his rig," shares Grant B. about his experience at Payne Campground, suggesting bringing extra leveling blocks.
Low clearance warnings: Watch for railroad crossings near entrances. "The campground entrance is located between 2 railroad crossings and each have low ground clearance and located in turns," warns a camper about Allatoona Landing, suggesting approaching at an angle.
Site selection guidance: Call ahead for guidance on 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," recommends an RVer who successfully navigated a 40-foot rig into Clark Creek North.
