RV campgrounds around Carters Lake offer campers access to North Georgia's mountain landscape at approximately 1,200 feet elevation. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, the area combines lake recreation with mountain exploration across seasonal temperature shifts from warm 85°F summers to cooler 50°F fall camping days. Sites range from primitive to full-hookup facilities serving campers throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Carters Lake provides 3,200 acres of deep water fishing for largemouth bass, striped bass, and walleye. At Diamond Lure Campground, campers can fish directly from the property. "Diamond Lure is a hidden gem at the foothills of the N. GA mountains. Scenery is wooded and rustic with a tranquil lake on the property," notes Donald G.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas with scenic mountain views. "We love this campground! Large private sites throughout... 25 miles of hiking and biking trails starting right from our campsite," reports Katrin S. about Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Water activities: Swimming beaches and boating access points surround Carters Lake. "There's a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc. There are gorgeous, peaceful walking trails that are decorated really well," shares Heather L. about her experience at Diamond Lure Campground.
Mountain drives: The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and nearby apple orchards provide day trip options. "It's in close proximity to multiple apple farms, vineyards and Amicalola Falls," observes Donald G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spacing between sites as a positive feature. At Whitewater RV Park - Ocoee TN, "The sites are level and concrete with a nice fire pit," according to Justin.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper reviews. "Bathhouse was clean and well lit. Roads around the loops were narrow but there were big 5th wheel rigs so its doable," notes Tracy J. about Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Pet amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific dog-friendly features. "The grounds are super clean. There are walking trails, a lake, a beach, and they even have things for dogs! (Dog bath, dog beach, dog park, ect)," shares Corey G. about Diamond Lure Campground.
Evening gatherings: Social opportunities around fire rings rate highly. At Parksville Lake RV Campground, "Several sites offer the opportunity for two R.V.'s to camp close together and some are located along a small stream," notes one camper.
What you should know
Site selection limitations: Some RV parks assign sites rather than allowing selection. "You do not get to pick your site. You get to pick what style of site but the exact site... We felt not much thought was given especially after being there and seeing many sites available in our section that would have fit our trailer and vehicles," explains Logan S. about Talona Ridge RV Resort.
Road conditions: Mountain access roads require careful navigation. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road. The camp sites are distanced well and the entire campground is in the shade," cautions Carissa D.
Variable water pressure: Water systems can fluctuate by campground section. "From talking to other campers in this area, some had lower water pressure and took their regulators off," reports MickandKarla W.
Event reliability: Scheduled activities may not always happen as advertised. "I'm deeply disappointed with the resort's lack of planning and execution of their advertised schedule of events. Despite listing happy hour, bingo, and a margarita cart on their itinerary, none of these activities took place as promised," shares Chris M.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "Our visit was nice, the park was clean and the bathrooms were clean and well lit," notes Ben B. about Parksville Lake.
Playground access: Some RV parks near Carters Lake include playground equipment. "This is a great place to stay. Staff is very nice and accommodating. All areas are really clean. Lake to fish or hike," reports Brian W. about Whispering Pines Campground.
Festival timing: Plan around apple festivals for additional family activities. "Loved this campground! We went during the Ellijay apple festival, so they were busy, but the campground was great! Great view of the lake and staff is so helpful and nice!" shares Gretchen about Diamond Lure Campground.
Creek-side sites: Request sites along water features for added entertainment. "Our site backed up to the creek, which we really enjoyed," mentions Bea about Whispering Pines Campground.
Tips from RVers
Satellite reception: Most rv campgrounds near Carters Lake have satellite access due to limited tree cover. "There are not a lot of mature trees so satellite was not a problem. We got 4 bars on Verizon and the CG WiFi was above average for a park of this size," reports MickandKarla W. about Talona Ridge RV Resort.
Utility placement: RV site utilities vary in location and accessibility. "The utilities are at the middle of the pad so you can adjust according to your needs," notes MickandKarla W.
Size limitations: Different loops accommodate varying RV lengths. In Battlefield Campground & RV Park, "Most of the sites here are nicely wooded, and as the area is slightly hilly there are elevation changes between several rows of sites which allows for a little more privacy than many RV parks offer," explains Stephanie J.
Cellular connectivity: Service varies significantly by carrier and location. "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal," advises Manie D.
