Tent camping options near Braselton include primitive and established sites within driving distance of the town. Located in the Piedmont region of northeast Georgia, the area features rolling hills and moderate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F during peak camping season. Elevations in surrounding campgrounds typically range from 900 to 1,400 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Raven Cliff Falls offers a 2.5-mile trail ending at a dramatic waterfall with opportunities to explore rock structures. At Raven Cliff Falls, campers can explore beyond the main falls. "This place is one of the best and most beautiful places to back pack! with several waterfalls within just a 5 mile hike its a great place to camp and explore," notes Joshua G.
Water activities: Laurel Park on Lake Lanier includes splash pads and lake access from late spring through summer. Laurel Park offers multiple water recreation options beyond swimming. "It has a splash pad that's operating from late spring through summer. It has plenty of access to lake Lanier, and plenty of room for grilling out," confirms Josh D.
Wildlife observation: Panther Creek Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife including deer and various bird species. According to campers at Panther Creek Recreation Area, "I have encountered deer, skunks, opossums, raccoons, bobcats, bears and a wide variety of snakes."
What campers like
Secluded creek-side sites: Many campgrounds offer sites along flowing water for natural white noise at night. At Raven Cliff Falls, "Our spot was about a quarter mile from the parking area which has public restrooms available, and we were right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night."
Easy access to hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. "The shelter is only 1 mile away from the nearest parking lot, or you can start at Amicalola and hike the 8 miles for the Approach Trail," notes a camper at Springer Mountain Shelter regarding accessibility options.
Bear protection systems: Some sites include bear boxes for food storage. "This location also has a bear box/locker for storing food at night so that you don't have to hang your bear bag. Everyone puts their food bags in and the clamp type lock goes on for the night."
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Water sources at more primitive sites may be unreliable in dry months. At Springer Mountain Shelter, one camper noted, "water is nearby (last July it was just a small trickle but still filled our bottles)."
Campsite surface differences: Surfaces range from natural ground to concrete pads depending on location. At Buford Dam Park Shelters, visitors should note that "Parking is off of the main road and there is not a lot of room for oversized vehicles. The bathrooms were locked when we went so make sure you keep that in mind when coming here."
Weekend crowds: Most sites near Braselton fill quickly on weekends, particularly in summer. "If you want a walk-in campsite and it's the weekend, you better get there early. We arrived at dusk on a Friday and got the last walk-in site available."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water features: Sites with splash pads or shallow swimming areas work best for children. At Laurel Park, families appreciate the "splash pad that's operating from late spring through summer" which provides entertainment beyond typical camping activities.
Choose sites with easy bathroom access: Panola Mountain State Park offers facilities within reasonable walking distance. "Getting to the campsite was simple enough and it is the quoted 3/4 mile walk in. It was great to see some families utilizing the space," reports Michael T.
Consider educational opportunities: Some parks offer ranger-led programs. "We took the guided tour of the Mountain and it was awesome. We ate Pine Trees and they explained about likenand the red fungus. Highly recommended," shares a visitor to Panola Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Braselton have limited or no RV hookups. At Hembree Park Campground, RVers should note, "It's not an RV park, they said there's is a little section of the park for rv but non hookups of any kind."
Parking constraints: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for vehicles. "Parking is close to the street and paths go down to the lakeside. It is usually busy by people just driving thru but there are several places to pull in. Parking is off of the main road and there is not a lot of room for oversized vehicles."
Access road considerations: Some camping areas have narrow or steep access roads challenging for larger vehicles. "The campground was on cemented floor, which we did not realize till we got there. Regardless, we appreciate the hot water in the bathroom."
