Best Campgrounds near Ball Ground, GA

Camping options near Ball Ground, Georgia range from state park campgrounds to private RV parks within a 25-mile radius. The area features several established campgrounds including Amicalola Falls State Park, which provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Sweetwater Campground and Twin Lakes RV Park offer additional developed camping areas with varying amenities. Most campgrounds in the region provide electric hookups and water access, with many sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings. Several locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with a few offering glamping options like yurts or cabins for visitors seeking more comfort.

Seasonal availability varies across campgrounds in the area, with some facilities operating year-round while others maintain specific operating seasons. Amicalola Falls State Park remains open throughout the year, while campgrounds like Sweetwater operate from mid-March through early September. According to one visitor, "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it." Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds in the region maintain clean facilities with accessible bathrooms and showers, though amenities vary by location. Road access is generally good, with most campgrounds accommodating standard vehicles without requiring high clearance or four-wheel drive.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Ball Ground area, with multiple campgrounds situated along Lake Allatoona or smaller bodies of water. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers particularly value sites with lake views and water access. Sweetwater Campground receives consistently positive feedback for its lakeside locations, with one camper noting, "The view of the lake is beautiful. We always stay on site 100 it's right on the water." Family-friendly amenities and clean facilities are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. While most established campgrounds offer reliable amenities, some private campgrounds in the region have mixed reviews regarding long-term residents and site conditions. Wildlife viewing opportunities and hiking access complement the camping experience at several locations, particularly at Amicalola Falls State Park with its proximity to scenic trails.

Best Camping Sites Near Ball Ground, Georgia (396)

    1. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    58 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 265-4703

    "It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."

    "If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."

    2. Sweetwater Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $290 / night

    "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."

    3. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    78 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 975-0055

    $40 - $315 / night

    "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."

    "Our site I believe was 51 and steps away from The water. Easy check in and friendly staff."

    4. Bald Ridge Creek

    22 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 889-1591

    $26 - $36 / night

    "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!)"

    "It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."

    5. Shady Grove Campground

    24 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 205-6850

    $20 - $240 / night

    "This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."

    "If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."

    6. Victoria Campground

    15 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $34 / night

    "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"

    7. Payne Campground

    13 Reviews
    Woodstock, GA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $68 / night

    "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."

    8. Doll Mountain Campground

    22 Reviews
    Talking Rock, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 276-4413

    $26 - $100 / night

    "Doll Mountain Campground near Ellijay, Georgia is located on a peninsula stretching into Carter's Lake, and managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. "

    "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."

    9. Mckinney Campground

    24 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $30 - $34 / night

    "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."

    10. Bolding Mill

    21 Reviews
    Murrayville, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 534-6960

    $20 - $36 / night

    "It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."

    "Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"

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Recent Reviews near Ball Ground, GA

1460 Reviews of 396 Ball Ground Campgrounds


  • G F.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Overpriced

    Like some of the other privately managed Georgia state parks, our visit here was disappointing.

    The issues started at the welcome center. The RV parking area was full of cars, even though plenty of regular parking spots were open. When we mentioned it to staff, the response was dismissive — one employee told us, “that’s above my paygrade.”

    The restroom at the welcome center was also a low point. The toilets are stainless steel with no seats — the kind you’d expect to see in a jail — and designed so shallow that whether you sit or hover, you end up getting splashed. It’s an unpleasant and unsanitary setup.

    The campground itself felt neglected, with rotting picnic tables and a general lack of upkeep. It’s also isolated from the rest of the park — there isn’t even a connector trail from the camping area to a single hiking trail, which makes it feel cut off from the very amenities most people come for. At $60 a night, you’d expect at least a basic map of the trails and amenities, but instead you’re told to snap a photo of a cardboard display. That felt like corner-cutting.

    One memorable (and concerning) part of the stay was the bear activity. In September, several bears came through the campground, startling tent campers who had to retreat inside their cars for safety.

    All in all, while the natural setting of Amicalola Falls is beautiful, the way the park is managed left the overall experience underwhelming and, at times, frustrating.

  • Ney N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Woodring Branch Primitive Campground — Carters Lake

    Slice of heaven cost: $10

    My partner always said he loved going here as a kid, so we went. $10 a night was a bargain and I did not expect much. The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept. It was quiet, beautiful, and an absolute slice of heaven. We went swimming and exploring. It did not feel overcrowded or busy. We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world.

  • Bobbi Jo P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Hickory Gap

    One of our favorite places!

    Nice small campground with 5 sites. Fills up during hunting season. Can't beat the peaceful sounds of the creek and nature at its finest!

  • Brittany B.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Great view of the Lake

    The campsite was right next to the swimming beach so little to no privacy and very loud. Although I slept very well in my tent because Quiet hours were observed. It was nice waking up to view of Lake Allatoona. Lady at the gate was rude when checking in so make sure to “READ the sign!” Other than that bathrooms were clean and they have laundry and hot water showers. Will most likely be back!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Calhoun A-OK Campground

    Now called CedarBreak…

    Not KOA anymore - the campground has been renamed CedarBreak. New owners and they are very nice and helpful. Nicely Renovated office and store. Upgraded our site when they knew our plans. Minor sound from adjacent road, other than that very quiet, clean, nice layout with trees, good site spacing, I’ll be back.

  • Suzanne-Will C.
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Woodring Branch Primitive Campground — Carters Lake

    Great Tent Camping

    I love that this was a tent only camping site (no RVs). The sites were a bit smaller than I would have liked but as it was just the 10 sites on the road, the kids could safely play in the road. The water was by the toilets at the entrance but easily walkable from the sites.

  • Doug S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Persimmon Creek RV Park

    Beautiful Little Camp Ground

    Persimmon Creek is a beautiful and peaceful place. The owner is very friendly and helpful. It is centrally located to some great attractions.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Winding Waters RV Resort

    Labor Day Weekend Glamping

    We booked Friday through Sunday of Labor Day weekend. We arrived after hours on Friday, and our check-in packet was prepared and ready for us when we arrived. No problems checking in and getting hooked up.

    The RV park is enormous, new and extremely well-kept. Our spot was next to the Etowah River and was one of the few that is on gravel and not concrete. The few gravel lots are among the quietest of this very busy place.

    There are plenty of things to do for a family...lazy river pool, pickle ball, etc. There are kids, electric scooters, electric everything flying around the park morning to evening. It's not necessarily a problem so long as you know what to expect. This is a less quiet place than many others that we have stayed at.

    Lots of investment in 5G WiFi towers, but WiFi is not terribly good. I opted to pull out my StarLink for a better, high bandwidth connection.

    My wife and I travel with e-bikes, so we were glad that it was easy to get to southern Cartersville in about 3 miles and to the Cooper's Furnace Day Area also in about 3 miles.

    Overall, and great place as long as you know you're signing up for a pretty active RV resort geared toward lots of family activity. Not particularly quiet. I'll come back... really enjoyed the cleanliness, order and adherence to strict rules.


Guide to Ball Ground

Camping near Ball Ground, Georgia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "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."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Don Carter State Park Campground. A camper noted, "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there’s even a canoe trail!"
  • Swimming: Relax by the water at Sweetwater Campground. One visitor said, "The campground is gated, and the gates are shut between 10:30 pm and 8 am, so if you are arriving late, make sure you get in before 10:30!"

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Red Top Mountain State Park Campground stated, "The best shower of my camping experience so far! Hot water and great water pressure- what a treat!"
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. A camper at Fort Yargo State Park Campground mentioned, "The staff were able to get me added and discounted my staff which was nice."
  • Beautiful scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. One reviewer at Vogel State Park Campground said, "Absolutely a perfect campground, in a mature forest, with a lake, streams, hiking trails."

What you should know:

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground noted, "The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to."
  • Access fees: Be prepared for additional fees at some parks. A camper at Stone Mountain Park Campground mentioned, "On top of the $70 a night, you must pay a $20 parking fee."
  • Limited payment options: Some campgrounds only accept cash. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground shared, "You need to do it by cash only. There is no way to pay with a credit card."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. A reviewer at Stone Mountain Park Campground said, "There are different activities for the kids. Fall fest and Halloween parade."
  • Clean bathrooms: Choose campgrounds known for their cleanliness. A camper at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms are clean."
  • Pet-friendly options: If you’re bringing pets, check for dog-friendly campgrounds. A visitor at Fort Yargo State Park Campground noted, "Pets allowed, which is great for families."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big rig friendly: Look for campgrounds that can accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Don Carter State Park Campground said, "Plenty large enough. Has grey tank hookup which is nice."
  • Narrow roads: Be cautious of narrow roads in some parks. A camper at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads are a little confusing and tight."
  • Reservations recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Sweetwater Campground advised, "Check the grade of your site before booking, there are quite a few with a very steep grade."

Camping near Ball Ground, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ball Ground, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ball Ground, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 396 campgrounds and RV parks near Ball Ground, GA and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Ball Ground, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ball Ground, GA is Amicalola Falls State Park Camping with a 4.7-star rating from 58 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ball Ground, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Ball Ground, GA.

What parks are near Ball Ground, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Ball Ground, GA that allow camping, notably Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and Lake Sidney Lanier.