Primitive tent camping near Cedartown, Georgia spans across northwestern Georgia and eastern Alabama within 40 miles of the city center. This region sits at the southern edge of the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging between 700-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F between June and September, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons with overnight temperatures between 45-65°F.
What to do
Cave exploration: 4-mile drive from Sawmill Lake Campsite to Petty John Cave. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," notes Lisa.
Mountain biking: rent on-site at Little River Adventure Company. "They also rent out pedal and motor bikes for exploring the parkway along the canyon," explains Asher K. The surrounding trails offer various difficulty levels for beginners through experienced riders.
Equestrian camping: Available at Warden Station Horse Camp with designated spaces for horses and riders. "Horse trails are usually well maintained and marked which makes up for the super primitive camping," according to Nicole H., who recommends visiting the nearby Shoal Creek chapel.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Tent campers appreciate the privacy at Hidden Creek Campground. "We went out and found this place and setup our campsite very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here," writes Patrick R.
Water access: Proximity to swimming spots rates highly with tent campers. "On top of the campground, they also have access to the river for swimming and kayak launching," reports Asher K. about Little River Adventure Company.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers value no-cost tent sites. At Sawmill Lake Campsite, Brandon M. notes it's a "Great FREE site near plenty of hiking trails, world class rock climbing, etc." Another camper adds, "The permit was 15 dollars to access Rock Town and the Caves."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many primitive tent areas let you pick your own spot. At Little River Adventure Company, Lonni B. explains, "Some of the sites are close together but there's so many to pick from, it's easy to feel like you're the only ones out there!"
Road conditions vary drastically: Access roads to tent sites range from maintained gravel to challenging. "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES," warns Robyn W. about Hidden Creek Campground.
Bathroom facilities limited: Most primitive tent sites near Cedartown lack facilities. "I do recommend bringing your own toilet accommodations since you'll probably pick a site further from the bath house," advises Lonni B. about Little River Adventure Company.
Permits required: Some areas need permits for overnight stays. Sierra Y. notes about Sawmill Lake Campsite: "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for distance from amenities: When tent camping with children near Cedartown, prepare for limited facilities. One family reported at Little River Adventure Company: "Giorgio has an amazing set up here. He was super helpful and accommodating. We were in a mini van and were still able to navigate the grounds and dirt road pretty easily. Our kids were amazed by the water access and walking trails."
Bring entertainment: Natural features become primary activities. "The owner, Giorgio, is a off-road bike rider and a super host. This is a great spot," notes Charles H. about Little River Adventure Company.
Consider campground layout: Choose sites with natural boundaries for children. At Yellow Creek Falls Fish Camp, one camper notes, "We went twice before. Once in September of 2020 and once in May of 2021. We absolutely love this campground. Its peaceful and right by the water! The market is a plus too!"
Tips from RVers
Test clearance limits: Low-clearance vehicles struggle on unpaved tent camping access roads. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," reports Abigail P. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Check for fire restrictions: Fire policies change seasonally. At Sky Mtwy Dispersed, Robert J. notes, "This spot is where the lookout tower office used to be. It burned years ago but the concrete pad is still here. Ultimately, Rangers may come by and ask you to move to prepared sites nearby. I think they are concerned about fires as always."
Prepare for isolation: Limited cell service marks most tent camping areas. Zoey T. describes Sky Mtwy Dispersed: "Completely quiet. Maybe 3 cars pulled past all day. Some cell service. Plenty of trails to hike."
