Best Campgrounds near Cartersville, GA
Camping near Cartersville, Georgia centers around Lake Allatoona, with numerous established campgrounds managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Georgia State Parks. Red Top Mountain State Park offers a variety of accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts, while McKinney Campground provides lakefront sites with boat access. Both are located approximately 40 minutes north of Atlanta, making them accessible weekend destinations. Other options include McKaskey Creek, Victoria, and Sweetwater campgrounds, all situated along the shores of Lake Allatoona. As one camper noted, "The Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Lake Allatoona near Cartersville are very woodsy with nice lake access, perfect for hiking and water activities."
Most campgrounds in the Cartersville area are open seasonally, with peak operation from March through September or October. McKinney and Red Top Mountain State Park remain open year-round. Summer temperatures can be hot and humid, though lakeside sites offer some relief. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak season. Many campgrounds have electric and water hookups, with some offering full sewer connections for RVs. Facilities typically include restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Bear activity has been reported in the area, so proper food storage is advised.
The campgrounds vary in amenities and setting. Lakefront sites at McKinney and Red Top Mountain provide direct water access for swimming and fishing, with some campers reporting swimming is possible well into October due to Georgia's warm climate. RV campers will find big-rig friendly sites at most locations, with 30 and 50-amp service available. For those seeking more amenities, Marina Resort at Allatoona Landing offers cabin rentals in addition to traditional camping. The proximity to Cartersville provides convenient access to restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions like the Booth Western Art Museum, making these campgrounds suitable for both weekend getaways and longer stays.
