Carters Lake in northern Georgia features several developed campgrounds operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, with Doll Mountain Campground serving as a primary destination for lake access. The peninsula-shaped Doll Mountain offers both tent and RV sites with various amenities including electric hookups, water access, and picnic tables. Nearby alternatives include Woodring Campground, which provides more primitive camping options primarily for tents, and Fort Mountain State Park, which adds cabin accommodations to its camping inventory. Most campgrounds in the region cater to both tent and RV campers, though amenities vary significantly between locations.
The terrain around Carters Lake presents navigation challenges with steep roads and significant elevation changes. "Be 100% positive in your ability to handle your rig and you have the correct vehicle to pull your rig. This campground has severe grades and hard switchbacks," noted one visitor about Doll Mountain. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with many closing from late October through early April. Water access is a key consideration, as some sites provide direct lake access while others are positioned on bluffs or ridges with views but no immediate water entry points. Cell service varies throughout the region, with AT&T generally providing better coverage than other carriers according to camper reports.
Waterfront camping represents the most sought-after experience at Carters Lake, with campers frequently highlighting the lake views and swimming opportunities. Some sites feature built-in wooden platforms ideal for tent camping, while others include concrete pads designed for RVs. A camper described their experience: "We stayed at a site that had water and electric. However, there was a septic dump site leaving the campground. At Doll Mountain there are all types of campsites." Privacy between sites varies by location, with many campers noting the generous spacing between sites at Doll Mountain compared to other regional campgrounds. For those seeking seclusion, several reviews recommend sites 9-13 at Doll Mountain Campground or exploring the more primitive options at Woodring Branch, which limits RV access and provides a quieter atmosphere.
$14 - $55 / night
"Its usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia’s summer heat much more enjoyable. Good hiking and things to do nearby."
"There's nice trails in the park one around the lake & one to a small waterfall across the street. There is no cell service."
$26 - $100 / night
"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."
"My site #38 had no sites on either side and a nice tent platform overlooking Carters lake. The bathrooms were clean but old and right across from my site. No access to the lake is the only drawback."
$20 - $42 / night
"Easy access sites but some are close together with lots of trees on beautiful Carters Lake in the north Georgia mountains."
"Carters Lake is a great deep lake, clean and private. Bring your kayaks cause y’all wanna explore the lake plenty of little swimming holes."
"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."
"The Doll Mountain campground sits along side Carters Lake in North Georgia. It is an Army Corp of engineer's lake and has no homes along it's banks. It's a great place to get out into nature."
"Camped at Doll Mountain on Carters Lake again this past weekend. Perfect weather and a great trip. The lake is not developed and very quiet so perfect for kayaking."
$30 - $60 / night
"It was hard to find a place that allowed 1 night that still had reservations but based on positive feedback on the Georgia RV FB group I found this place."
"Very close to the highway, but quite and well maintained."
"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."
"The campground is situated on a hill with the campsites tiered one above(or below) the next. Not much in shade or privacy but well kept and clean."
$95 - $130 / night
"The cement pad was plenty long enough to position the rig for the sewer connection at the back of the pad, while still allowing us to put the patio down and park our F450 fully on the site."
"The top level also has the swimming pool and hot tub area next to the clubhouse, with the plan for this to be the adult pool area once they complete the second pool on the middle level."
$30 - $50 / night
"Upon driving up, you see the office and the big lake behind it and it’s breathtaking. There’s a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc."
"We found this place by mistake looking at another location close by. This is a wonderful little place. Sites are adequate and bath houses are clean. We already booked another trip."
$8 - $15 / night
"Stayed in the upper loop away from the lake but could still see the water from where we stayed. We walked the trail up to the lookout tower it was challenging and pretty."
"It almost feels like you're not in Georgia because a lot of reviews look very different compared to the typical Blue ridge mountain camping trip."
TravelerI stayed at the walk- in campsites with waterfront view and access to walk down to the water. There is no electric at site and water didn’t work. The bathroom facilities are well maintained and whole place is really clean. This site was right next to parking other 3 are close but wagon recommended to haul items to other walk on sites.
TravelerVery nice camp grounds 12 bucks a night got to love that
ScoutGorgeous campground on the lake with excellent facilities. Priority along the lake front is given to tent sites, which is nice. There's a mix of sizes for small campers and big RVs so it never feels crowded. Not a huge amount to do in the area except chill on the lake or at your site in the woods... which is fine by me. The one shortcoming was difficult lake access from the campground. There are plenty of beach areas when the lake is low but getting to them can be challenging. There's a public beach in another part of the park but we didn't go there.
TravelerThe staff is so friendly and helpful. The campground is quiet and well maintained. The RV sites aren't very level so ensure you have the ability to level your rig. The bathrooms are older but have great hot water and are clean.
TravelerVogel has always been one of our favorites. We have camped here for more than 50 years. Vogel has been around for over 95 years and the state has done a really good job maintaining and improving the park. They have redone most of the sites within the last several years. Because the campground is so old, the roads can be narrow and the sites a challenge for the giant rigs that have become popular today. There is a new visitor center with great views of the lake. During our April 2026 visit, the lake was completely drained for maintenance on the dam.
Vogel is one of the few campgrounds where you can actually camp under a dense canopy of old trees. If you want to escape the campgrounds that feel like you are parked in a Walmart parking lot, give Vogel a try.
GuideQuaint/quiet and tranquil spot. Right on the Ocoee River. Packed during the weekends with pretty right spots but it’s an awesome setting with less traffic during the week. A lot of mountain bikers and whitewater enthusiasts.
GuideNice campground with showers and bathroom. There are some trails that go down to a nearby lake.
ScoutGreat camping experience and location. Bathhouses a bit outdated and semi-clean. Would stay here again, especially with a water front site.
TravelerI was greatly deceived by the photos and descriptions online. We had site 40 and it was much much shorter than online said and the incline was insane. I would say 90% of the sites in loops B, C, and D should not be sites. Loop A has the most level sites with a lot not having shade though. Site 15 seemed to be the best in the whole park. Leveling our popup was miserable. Most campers we saw come in seemed to be the same as us. First time being there and not realizing the sites are significantly shorter than listed and shown in photos and extremely unlevel. I couldn’t even imagine a tent camper in most sites comfortably with how much of an incline and then slope you’re on. It’s a straight up hill and then it’s tilted to the side too. Sites are also extremely close together which is fine if you plan to be out or on the water a lot but it’s very cramped.
Bathrooms in loop B were the largest and cleaned daily. Bathrooms were great with the exception of the doors being super small but not an issue really. I’m 6ft and it was just funny seeing over everything.
Lake is BEAUTIFUL. So many areas to swim and great trails. Good place for pets.
One host in the entire park and we were lucky to be next to them and listen to their dog park and cry all day and night as they never let him in. Their site is right there when you go in and just trashed with all kinds of stuff. Feels more like a trailer park than state park. Never once saw the hosts and the camp store/office was closed every day we were there (we were there for a week Sunday to Sunday) Our site had quite a bit of trash when we got there. I’m shocked how the bathrooms were kept so clean but sites were not
They have check in listed at 4pm but every day new campers were there far before 4 which isn’t a problem but helps to know you can really get there anytime.
Overall the area is amazing with so much to do for everyone. Fishing, hiking, swimming, plenty to do all around. I would come back only for loop A and site 15. Maybe some others in loop A. Unless you have a camper van that you are fine being tilted, I would avoid all loops besides A. We saw a lot of people get there and then leave when they couldn’t park or level their site and there weren’t other options any better for them
Cell service was great. T-Mobile hotspot was amazing for me to work remote
Carters Lake spans over 3,200 acres and is the deepest lake in Georgia with depths reaching 450 feet. Unlike many lakes in the region, Carters Lake has no private development along its shoreline, creating a pristine camping environment surrounded by undisturbed forest. Seasonal water temperatures vary dramatically, with summer surface temperatures reaching 80°F while depths below 50 feet remain consistently cool.
Fishing opportunities: Carters Lake offers exceptional fishing with several species available year-round. At Diamond Lure Campground, you'll find "a tranquil lake on the property" with easy access for anglers of all skill levels. According to one camper, "The lake is full of bass and brim and is perfect for kayak fishing" at Lake Conasauga.
Hiking trails: The area features numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, "there are awesome trails and varied trails with lots of elevation. The Gahuti is the most known hiking trail here and we never saw another hiker on the trail except each other when our solo hiking excursions crossed paths." Another visitor notes that "Wonderful hiking trails with many mountain views" are available.
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, many campgrounds offer additional water activities. Woodring Campground features "a lake to fish in, and we walked the trail around it every day." One visitor explained, "The lake is clear and scenery is awesome. If you have a boat, there is a boat dock and several of the sites you can tie your boat up right next to them."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for added privacy. At Woodring Campground, "Sites are spaced out and it is hard enough to reach that it keeps all the big fifth wheels and buses away." One visitor to Doll Mountain noted their site was "separated from the other groups of sites. It was fantastic, the views of the lake were great."
Waterfront access: Direct lake access is highly valued. At Doll Mountain Campground, "If you don't mind a little hike campsite 20 is the best you will find. It was right off the water." Another camper shared, "Our campsite was large with a fire ring, BBQ grill and picnic table. Also, had a lantern post. We stayed at site A which was down a steep slope but, we had a nice view of the lake and even went for a swim right from our campsite."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities are consistently mentioned. A camper at 411 River Rest Campground praised "the bathhouses are exceptional. A very nice playground for the kids and a splash pad is in the plans for the near future." At Woodring Campground, visitors appreciated that the "bathhouse was clean, has 2 showers available."
Seasonal operations: Many smaller campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Woodring Branch operates from "April 4 to October 26," while Salacoa Creek Park runs from "April 1 to November 1." Make reservations well in advance for peak summer months.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. At Lake Conasauga, "you have to drive over an hour down a gravel road to the campground" and "4x4 is not needed but a vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended." Consider your vehicle's capabilities before booking remote sites.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in the region. One visitor to Fort Mountain State Park noted, "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival." Lake Conasauga advises campers to "keep your camp very clean, it has bear-proof trash cans and toilets."
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. Salacoa Creek Park has "a playground in the campground and a beach with another playground in the near by day use area." One visitor noted it's "great for relaxing. Kids playing during the day. Quiet nights."
Swimming areas: Dedicated swim beaches make for safer family fun. Diamond Lure Campground features "a little beach to swim in or go fishing" and even has "a dog beach" for four-legged family members. Another camper mentioned they have "things for dogs! (Dog bath, dog beach, dog park, etc)."
Platform camping options: For a unique family experience, Fort Mountain offers platform sites. A visitor describes: "We chose Fort Mountain for the variety of camping options they had, specifically the platform sites. As one of our primary requirements for camping is privacy and a place our kids can run around without bothering anyone else, having a place slightly off the main road sounded perfect--and it was."
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on your specific needs. At Amicalola Falls State Park Camping, "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper."
Electrical service: Verify power requirements before booking. At 411 River Rest Campground, "Sites are very level and we didn't have to level the axles at all. Sites are roomy and well laid out." Another visitor confirmed they had "electric water AND cable hookups."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. At Salacoa Creek Park, there are "30 and 50 amp service with water. No sewers but has a easy access dump station before the camp sites." Plan accordingly or select a site with sewer hookups if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds on Carters Lake?
The top campgrounds on Carters Lake include Doll Mountain Campground and Woodring Campground. Doll Mountain offers diverse camping options including tent platforms with lake views, plus sites with water and electric hookups. The campground sits on a peninsula stretching into the lake with clean bathhouses and shower facilities. Woodring Campground, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, features easy-access sites among trees with friendly staff. Both campgrounds provide excellent access to Carters Lake's clean, deep waters - perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming in a natural setting with beautiful mountain views and no private development along the shoreline.
Are there RV rentals available at Carters Lake, Georgia?
There are no on-site RV rentals directly at Carters Lake campgrounds. However, the area is RV-friendly with several campgrounds accommodating recreational vehicles. Talona Ridge RV Resort near East Ellijay provides full RV facilities close to Carters Lake. For RV rentals, check with outdoor recreation companies in nearby towns like Ellijay or Chatsworth. Diamond Lure Campground near Ellijay is also big-rig friendly and may have information about local rental options. Most visitors bring their own RVs to Carters Lake, where campgrounds like Doll Mountain offer water and electric hookups with a dump station available at the exit.
Is island camping allowed at Carters Lake?
Island camping is not permitted at Carters Lake. This undeveloped Army Corps of Engineers lake has strict regulations to preserve its natural beauty and ecosystem. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds such as Doll Mountain Campground and other established sites around the lake. The lake's undeveloped shoreline makes it ideal for kayaking and exploring, but overnight stays must be at official campgrounds. For those seeking a more remote experience, Raven Cliff Falls in the general region offers a more backcountry feel while still providing established sites. Remember that rangers actively enforce camping regulations throughout the Carters Lake area.
How do I make camping reservations at Carters Lake?
Reservations for Carters Lake campgrounds can be made through the Recreation.gov website or by calling their reservation line. For Doll Mountain, you should book well in advance during peak seasons as sites fill quickly. Pay close attention to park hours as late arrivals may not be permitted entry. The campground offers various site types including those with water and electric hookups. When making reservations, note that some campgrounds like Fort Mountain State Park Campground in the vicinity require separate reservations through Georgia State Parks. Reservation windows typically open 6 months in advance, and holiday weekends book especially quickly.
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