Camping near Cartersville, Georgia centers around Lake Allatoona, a 12,000-acre reservoir with 270 miles of shoreline. Many campgrounds operate seasonally from March through September with limited year-round options. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 85-90°F, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions in the 70s with cooler nights.
What to do
Water activities at Clark Creek North: Located on Lake Allatoona, this campground provides excellent swimming and fishing opportunities. "This 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," notes camper Kathy B. at Clark Creek North Campground.
Hiking nearby: The area features several trails for all skill levels. "We love to hike and we always catch several kinds of but the crappie are so delicious," shares Robin M. from Mckinney Campground. Some campsites offer direct access to shoreline paths.
Historical exploration: The region has significant Civil War history to discover. "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike," reports Elaine G. who stayed at Sweetwater Campground. Many sites are within a 20-minute drive of the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "Most sites provide complete privacy from your neighbors because of all the trees. It is comfortable to both RV and tent campers," explains a visitor to Clark Creek North. Another camper at Victoria notes, "The sites are very large, and everyone I saw had lots of privacy!"
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently earns positive reviews. "The bathhouse is clean and well maintained also has laundry facilities. Hosts are friendly," writes Terri P. about their stay. Others mention "very clean and well kept" grounds throughout the Cartersville area campgrounds.
Lake access: Direct water access is a major draw for campers at Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing. "We got here early afternoon from Nashville and weather was great and warm. We had a spot right out to the water," says Marianne M. Most waterfront sites feature gentle slopes to the shoreline.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. "You can hear the train during the day, and a touch of the interstate at night, but the serenity is absolutely impeccable," notes a camper at McKinney. Others mention train whistles at certain times.
Security concerns: Some locations have reported theft issues. "After discussing the issue with the campground staff, we were informed that locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground," reports Chris C. from his experience at Clark Creek North.
Tent camping challenges: Not all campgrounds are ideal for tent campers. "It's definitely not quiet unless you're in an RV. And I guess we camped on the wrong morning too because they started mowing the lawn at around 8:30-9 am after listening the highway all night," shares Jennifer T. from Payne Campground.
Reservation timing: The most popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "We reserved one site, but when we arrived, someone had vomited all over the site and parking area. We went back to the gate and asked to change sites," reports Tracy R. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for prime weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Nice facilities, clean and well laid out. Very crowded right now due to people looking to get outdoors during this crisis. Family friendly with a ton of kids running around," notes Scott K. from Marina Resort.
Swimming beaches: Many locations have designated swimming areas. "Sweetwater is a nice park with a Beach. We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it," shares Rodney G. Swimming is generally possible from May through early October.
Site selection matters: Research site layout before booking. "This isn't for backpackers but for camping with your family, it's good. They have water and outlets and very very clean bathrooms. Like cleaner than a Publix bathroom. Kid friendly," explains Cris C. about their stay at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling. "Nice campgrpund and really enjoyed that we were on the water. However, many of the sites are very steep and slanted and causes difficulty getting your trailer or RV into the site," cautions Gary L. about McKinney Campground.
Road conditions: Campground roads can be narrow or rough. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain.
Site size verification: Confirm your site can accommodate your rig. "If you are a big rig, it would be wise to call the office and have them assist you in choosing a site that will accommodate a larger rig," recommends MickandKarla W. Many campgrounds have sites rated by maximum RV length.
