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Camping near Carters Lake

1,632 Reviews

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.

Map showing campgrounds near Carters Lake, GeorgiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Carters Lake (452)

    1. Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    Chatsworth, GA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 422-1932

    $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."

    2. Doll Mountain Campground

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

    $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."

    3. Woodring Campground

    14 Reviews
    Talking Rock, GA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 276-6050

    $18 - $28 / 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."

    4. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    60 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    21 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."

    5. Doll Mountain

    11 Reviews
    Carters Lake, GA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 276-4413

    "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."

    6. 411 River Rest Campground

    10 Reviews
    Carters Lake, GA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 972-2681

    $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."

    7. Salacoa Creek Park

    10 Reviews
    Calhoun, GA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 629-3490

    "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."

    8. Talona Ridge RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Ellijay, GA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 636-2267

    $95 - $130 / night

    "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."

    "We were the first official check in for the Brinkley rally arriving around noon."

    9. Diamond Lure Campground

    7 Reviews
    Ellijay, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 273-3075

    $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."

    10. Lake Conasauga

    8 Reviews
    Crandall, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 695-6736

    $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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Carters Lake

689 Photos of 452 Carters Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Carters Lake

1632 Reviews of 452 Carters Lake 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.

  • j
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    Great central location.

    I camp at Unicoi State Park several times a year for a number of different reasons. First, it is right in the middle of what I call waterfall country. There are more beautiful waterfalls within an hour than I can count. Second, there are spectacularly beautiful trails everywhere. You’re only about 20 minutes from the Appalachian Trail at Hog Pen Gap and 30 minutes from Blood Mountain and the Blood Mountain wilderness. Third, there are numerous picturesque and friendly little towns nearby. The park is about 3 miles from the town of Helen, which is a pseudo Bavarian village. A little touristy but still fun. There are some great German restaurants there. As to the park itself, I tent camp, and the campsites are excellent. Nice bathroom and shower facilities close by and regardless of the time of year it has never been crowded. Definitely worth $25 a night and I get a discount because I’m a senior (Remember you have to ask for the discount. They won’t tell you). If you are camping in the tent area, I can almost guarantee you’ll see a bear because they come out almost every night. Keep all of your food in the bear boxes. Since it is somewhat of a resort park, there are cabins, RV hook ups and even a motel/conference center. There are lots of activities like swimming, boating, archery, zip lining, etc. The Smith Creek pub is a nice little restaurant for a quick meal or a drink.

  • 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.

  • paul Z.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Harrison Bay State Park Campground

    Great place even with unlevel sites

    We had a great stay here. Luckily I brought extra leveling blocks after reading other reviews. Loop C site 26 was a great spot listed as water view but the lake was right there. Might as well have been called waterfront. Had to block up the rear wheels on our class A to get level but we brought those with us. Had our Canoe in the water right behind us and plenty of room for the car and dolly. Awesome hiking trails and a great little seasonal restaurant at the marina. We will come back here again

  • Liz M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Rough Creek Dispersed

    Only 2 Sites

    Gorgeous area at the end of the road. Only 2 sites and one intense drive to get here. It takes about 35 minutes to go 4 miles. Ground clearance and off road tires needed

Guide to Carters Lake

Camping near Carters Lake, Georgia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Carters Lake is known for its great fishing spots. One camper at Doll Mountain Campground mentioned, "Great views overlooking the lake. Level site, full hookups." This makes it a perfect spot for anglers looking to catch some trout.
  • Hiking: There are plenty of trails around the area. A visitor at Fort Mountain State Park Campground shared, "There are a lot of hiking trails as well as the lake where you can rent paddle boats, swim or fish." This gives you options for both hiking and water activities.
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have access to swimming areas. A review from Sweetwater Campground noted, "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!" This ensures a safe environment for families enjoying the water.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One camper at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping said, "The campground was neat, clean, and quiet." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Secluded Sites: Many campers enjoy the privacy offered by the sites. A review from Chilhowee Recreation Area highlighted, "Campsites are large, wooded and relatively private." This is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Friendly Staff: Campground hosts can make a big difference. A visitor at Thunder Rock Campground mentioned, "The campground hosts were phenomenal!!! They made sure all campers had everything they need." Friendly staff can enhance your camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Confusing Signage: Some campgrounds have tricky navigation. A camper at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground warned, "Signage is highly confusing, it took two competent adults a lot of back and forth to figure out where our campsite was." Arriving during daylight can help avoid confusion.
  • Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A camper at Cooper Creek noted, "There is zero cell service," which can be a challenge for those needing to stay connected.
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be narrow and winding. A visitor at Fort Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads were windy, they were doable." It’s best to drive carefully, especially with larger vehicles.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places that offer activities for kids. A camper at Morganton Point Campground said, "The beach and swimming area is an easy 8-10 minute walk from most campsites." This makes it easy for families to enjoy the water.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Respecting quiet hours is essential for a good experience. A review from Sweetwater Campground mentioned, "Expect No sleep!!" If you prefer a peaceful environment, choose your camping dates wisely.
  • Pack for Activities: Bring gear for fishing, swimming, or hiking. A camper at Doll Mountain Campground noted, "Great boat ramp and clean showers/bathhouses." This makes it easy to enjoy various activities without hassle.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Thunder Rock Campground mentioned, "Campsites are level and shaded." This is important for a comfortable stay.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Chilhowee Recreation Area noted, "There is no water available at any of the sites." Bring enough supplies for your stay.
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Fort Mountain State Park Campground advised, "Make reservations online as it fills up on the weekends." Planning ahead ensures you get the best site for your RV.

Camping near Carters Lake, Georgia, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

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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