Best Campgrounds near Canton, GA

Canton, Georgia provides access to numerous lakeside camping areas along Lake Allatoona, with several developed campgrounds offering a mix of tent and RV sites within a 30-minute drive. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground and Sweetwater Campground stand out as popular destinations, featuring electric hookups, water access, and accommodations ranging from basic tent sites to cabins and yurts. Most campgrounds in the region maintain lakefront locations with boat ramps and swimming areas, making them particularly appealing for water recreation enthusiasts.

Camping facilities around Lake Allatoona remain open seasonally, with most campgrounds operating from March through September or early October. "Large campground with lots of water front sites. Boat ramp and playground. Clean facilities and lots of shaded sites," notes one camper describing Sweetwater Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs including electric, water, and sewer connections, though site grades can vary significantly. Travelers should verify specific site conditions before booking, as several reviews mention steep grades at some lakefront locations.

The mixed-use campgrounds throughout the Canton area consistently receive positive reviews for their water access and spacious sites. Campers frequently mention the scenic lake views and swimming opportunities as highlights of their stays. One visitor shared that "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it." While most sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities, the level of privacy between campsites varies considerably. Several reviewers noted that some campgrounds lack significant vegetation between sites, while others offer more secluded options. Most developed campgrounds in the region provide sanitary dump stations, though several visitors mentioned that facilities can become crowded during peak checkout times on weekends.

Best Camping Sites Near Canton, Georgia (340)

    1. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    14 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."

    2. Sweetwater Campground

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

    $24 - $290 / night

    "Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc."

    "This campground is situated on Lake Allatoona, near Canton, just north of Atlanta."

    3. Victoria Campground

    15 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    10 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"

    4. Mckinney Campground

    24 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    15 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."

    5. Payne Campground

    13 Reviews
    Woodstock, GA
    10 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."

    6. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    60 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    26 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."

    7. Mckaskey Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $34 / night

    "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."

    8. Clark Creek North Campground

    12 Reviews
    Acworth, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 387-5149

    $34 / night

    "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."

    9. McKinney Campground

    10 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $28 / night

    "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."

    10. Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing

    11 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 974-6089

    $42 - $52 / night

    "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"

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Recent Reviews near Canton, GA

1272 Reviews of 340 Canton Campgrounds


  • Jennifer M.
    Nov. 1, 2025

    Dicks Creek Falls Campsites off Main Road

    perfectly scenic

    The winding road to the few campgrounds along the way was beautiful but narrow. We didn't see any potties and it ends with a sandy area at the water where about 6 cars were parked (perhaps they were all kayaking or hiking but we only saw two people. We backtracked a bit to a site along the stream with ample space for at least two or three tents. It was along the road and there were a few cars driving past during the night but not enough to bother us or make us feel unsafe at all. There was a trail at this site as well just on the other side of the water which went a few miles around to the road and looped back but it hadn't been maintained in a bit so there was a decent amount of climbing and exploration on our part to stay on it. Wouldn't advise without good trail maps on your phone.

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Quick fall foliage trip

    The park is absolutely beautiful, great scenery and hiking trails. The visitors center is nice, but the helpfulness of the staff was hit or miss. The campsite is nice, quiet, clean bathrooms and warm showers. We camped in a tent and the ground was hard, almost like cement which made staking the tent down difficult. Other than this, we loved it and would come back again.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    Red top mountain state park

    Plenty of campsites, some on the lake. RV, tents, yurts. Spaces 1-12 are especially nice since they are spacious and can handle class A and 5th wheelers. All 12 have water electric and sewer. We have a class C and prefer 1-12 because there is plenty of space between sites.

  • Kayla D.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bald Ridge Creek

    It’s a NO from us

    I wanted to wait a few days before writing this review — truthfully, I wanted to wait until after we checked out. I dreaded the retribution of Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Farmer, the campground manager, which I was sure would follow.

    Our church group had been looking forward to this camping trip for nearly a year. I’ve personally camped at Bald Ridge Creek Campground many times and never had a single issue — until now. Our church typically takes two group trips a year at another Forsyth County campground, but this year, we decided to rent nine sites at Bald Ridge. Even Cindy seemed excited that we were coming!

    We’re a Baptist group — not exactly known for our wild nights. We sing, we fellowship, and we’re back in our campers by 10 p.m. But according to “Queen Cindy,” you’d think we were a pack of college kids throwing keg parties.

    Our crime? An evening of worship and fellowship — a small keyboard, a guitar, and around 50 people spread over three campsites for a couple of hours each night. Cindy declared it an “event” (apparently forbidden) and told us we couldn’t do it again and threatened to make us all leave. She also banned us from eating together — saying we could gather while serving food but had to disperse to our own campsites immediately once we got our plates.

    The only actual rule violation came from one site where a tent wasn’t put up right away. Cindy seized on that excuse to call dispatch and have three sheriff’s deputies sent to “deal with” our peaceful group of families, children, and worshipers.

    To their credit, the deputies couldn’t have been kinder, yet embarrassed that they even had to be there. They laughed at the situation, noting they’re called out to the campground frequently because of Cindy’s pettiness and made-up rules. They said our little keyboard — which Cindy had described like it was a baby grand piano — was no problem at all. They simply advised us to set up the tent and let her stomp it out.

    Cindy even claimed that someone had called the Corps of Engineers to report us — at 7:00 p.m., during the government shutdown, when the office wasn’t even open. 🙄

    For context, Cindy lives at the campground for free as part of her role as host. It’s time for someone new to take over. She also wears a body camera and records campers (which is legal, I know), but as a county employee, those recordings are public record.

    We’ll continue to pray without ceasing for her — that the Lord softens her heart. But until then, I can’t recommend Bald Ridge Creek Campground to anyone who values fair treatment, hospitality, or simple human kindness.

  • George M.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Mulky Campground

    Great location for fishing

    A lot of the campsites are right on the water, so it's super easy to fish. But if you want something more private, there are also some secluded spots up the road.

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Rules not enforced

    The sites are very small and very close together. The lake does have beautiful views. I give 1 star because no rules are enforced. There was no quiet time for us. People were partying, loud music, yelling, being loud up to 3/4am. Both Friday and Saturday nights. It was so bad Friday night that we went to the local Dollar Tree for EAR PLUGS so we could sleep Saturday night. The gate is locked at 10pm however the gate will let you out. A camper below us went to the gate about 11pm and let 2 other cars in. 1 vehicle went out, 3 come in. No rules are enforced. We do not recommend it. The host site is an eye sore. It needs to be cleaned up. It's such a mess! The lake is so beautiful, though.

  • A
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Margaritaville

    Best Campground Ever

    My wife and I went here for a week back in June 2025. I’ve been to many campgrounds in my day and I can say this one by far is the best. Clean campsites, fun amenities and great golf.

    We went to a Braves game one night since it is only an hour away and made may fond memories. I have already scheduled my week to go back again in 2026!

  • 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.


Guide to Canton

Camping near Canton, 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 plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Raven Cliff Falls. One camper mentioned, "The hike itself was beautiful," making it a great spot for families who enjoy nature walks.
  • Swimming and Fishing: At Sweetwater Campground, you can enjoy lake views and access to swimming areas. A visitor noted, "This campground is situated on Lake Allatoona... plenty of sites with lake access."
  • Family Activities: Fort Yargo State Park Campground has a playground and trails for biking and walking. One reviewer said, "Great campground! Close to everything in Helen and tubing, which our kids loved."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground said, "The best shower of my camping experience so far! Hot water and great water pressure."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Don Carter State Park Campground remarked, "Clean and well-maintained including the facilities."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground said, "Absolutely a perfect campground, in a mature forest, with a lake, streams, hiking trails."

What you should know

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Sweetwater Campground, require reservations, especially during peak season. A camper warned, "Check the grade of your site before booking; there are quite a few with a very steep grade."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. For example, Raven Cliff Falls has no electric hookups or showers, so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Wildlife: Bears are known to roam in areas like Fort Mountain State Park Campground. One camper noted, "We were visited by a bear two of the nights," so keep food secured.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. Fort Yargo State Park Campground is great for kids, as one reviewer said, "Great playground with a sweet stream and lake access."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Vogel State Park Campground mentioned, "Several hikes/trails ranging in difficulty to choose from."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A visitor at Sweetwater Campground said, "Great place to camp and just relax and watch all children play and laugh."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground noted, "The roads are narrow, but in good repair."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. One RV enthusiast at Don Carter State Park Campground appreciated the "grey tank hookup which is nice."
  • Arrive Early: Get to your site early to set up. A visitor at Sweetwater Campground mentioned, "The campground is gated... make sure you get in before 10:30!"

Camping around Canton, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With beautiful campgrounds like Stone Mountain Park Campground and Amicalola Falls State Park Camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Canton, GA for families?

Families camping near Canton will find excellent options with kid-friendly amenities. Don Carter State Park Campground offers spacious sites with generous distance between neighbors, lake access, and exceptionally clean facilities. Located on Lake Lanier, many sites are just yards from the shoreline. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground is another family favorite with reservable sites, modern restrooms, and big-rig-friendly spaces. For families seeking a mountain experience, Vogel State Park Campground provides a well-maintained environment with heated bathrooms, hot showers, and beautiful scenery. Most family-oriented campgrounds in the area offer swimming areas, playgrounds, and easy hiking trails suitable for children of all ages.

Are there any RV parks in Canton, GA with full hookups?

Yes, RV enthusiasts will find several options with full hookups near Canton. McKinney Campground offers full-service sites that accommodate large RVs, with water, electric, and sewer connections available. This campground is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and provides big-rig-friendly spaces. Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing also offers full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections suitable for RVs of various sizes. When planning your trip, it's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Most RV parks in the area maintain gated access for security and have specific check-in/check-out times that visitors should note before arrival.

What are the most popular outdoor activities at camping sites near Canton, GA?

Camping sites near Canton offer diverse outdoor activities centered around water recreation and hiking. At Sweetwater Campground on Lake Allatoona, visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating with easy lake access from most campsites. Hiking is popular at Fort Mountain State Park Campground, where trails wind through wooded areas and the higher elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months. Other popular activities in the Canton area include mountain biking, wildlife viewing, photography, and seasonal events like fireworks displays at some parks. The region's lakes and forests create perfect settings for both relaxing nature appreciation and more adventurous outdoor pursuits year-round.