493 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Clarkesville area in northeast Georgia features several established campgrounds within a short drive of town, including Moccasin Creek State Park directly on Lake Burton and Tallulah Gorge State Park approximately 15 miles east. The region supports diverse camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV camping and cabin rentals. Black Rock Mountain State Park, situated at Georgia's highest elevation point, offers cooler temperatures and scenic mountain views about 20 miles northeast of Clarkesville. Lake Russell Recreation Area provides additional waterfront camping options with both tent and RV sites available seasonally from May through October.
Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during peak summer months and fall color season when tourism increases throughout north Georgia. Elevation changes significantly impact camping conditions, with higher elevation sites at Black Rock Mountain offering relief from summer heat but closing during winter months. Panther Creek Recreation Area provides more rustic camping with vault toilets and no hookups, while state parks like Moccasin Creek offer modern amenities including showers and electric sites. Cell service varies throughout the mountainous terrain, with coverage gaps common in more remote areas. One visitor noted that "the campground is secluded and quiet. So many stairs down to the gorge but worth it! The waterfalls are beautiful and the park staff are all very nice."
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with Lake Burton sites at Moccasin Creek State Park filling quickly during summer months. Campers frequently mention the proximity to hiking trails as a significant advantage, with Tallulah Gorge and Panther Creek Falls being popular destinations. Several visitors noted that campgrounds in the region tend to be relatively close together, with one camper commenting that "the camp sites are too close for our liking. It feels like everyone is in your business here." For those seeking more seclusion, primitive camping options can be found along trails like Raven Cliff Falls, where sites are described as being "right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night." The region's combination of mountain and lake access makes it popular for multi-activity trips including hiking, fishing, and water recreation.
"You are in between Clayton and Clarkesville where there are good local places to eat. The campground is up the road a bit so you don't really hear the highway noise."
"Tallulah Gorge is located in the far north east corner of Georgia. The campground is pretty tight, and difficult to maneuver with a large RV."
from $36 - $45 / night
Check Availability"The tent camp site was good, bathrooms and water were a close walking distance.
We picked this state park for all the activities. We took archery lessons and did the zip line course.""Nestled in pristine North Georgia mountains. Good for single, family or even group campers. Close to a wonderful Bavarian town know as Helen Georgia."
"We chatted about travel and places to go not just her in Georgia but also around the United States."
"The highest state park in Georgia has two general camping sections with power and water (and free cable if you're so inclined to hook up to watch TV)."
from $20 - $255 / night
Check Availability"Located right on the River in Lakemont GA. This campground is in a perfect location next to lots of trails, waterfalls and amenities. The campground itself has an indoor and outdoor pool."
"Full hook ups in A section and then plenty more around the camp ground that offer all but sewage.
1 video of the gorge which is really close by and a nice hike"
"There are two sides of the camp, the camp side and the trail side. It is very, very high traffic on the weekends. There is water and bathroom access."
"Raven Cliff Falls is another popular spot in Northeast Georgia. Its on one one of the most scenic highways and s in a great location if you want to venture into Helen, Brasstown, Bald, or Hiawassee."
"My wife and I stayed a night at Lake Russell Recreation area, and it was a great site."
"Loop A is in walking distance to the beach area/day use area. It was so peaceful! There’s one bathroom in Loop A. With 2 stalls and one shower in the women’s portion."
from $24 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Vogel State Park was perfectly situated along Hwy 19 in the north Georgia mountains for an easy spot for the night."
"Vogel State Park is hands down one of the nicest parks in Georgia. It has great hiking trails for every level of hiker, and a very beautiful lake that's great for fishing and paddling."
from $30 - $260 / night
Check Availability"We stayed in site 5 which is close to bathrooms but not too close. We had a beautiful view of the lake and our site was right next to the river."
"Its right next to the trout hatchery and Lake Burton so you have great access to recreation on the water."
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Situated at the far north end of Lake Lanier, this Georgia state park is awesome! One of the best things about it for RV/trailer camping is the huge distance between camp sites!"
"This Georgia State Park is in Gainesville on the Chattahoochee where it meets up with Lake Lanier. It was very easy to get to from the Atlanta area. "
from $25 - $225 / night
Check Availability"Panther Creek Trail and I go back about 30 years. The campground is on the other side of 441 from the trail head."
"It offers a 3.5 mile trail to Panther Creek falls and if you want to hike all the way through to Yonah dam it is roughly 5.8 miles. Be warned, the trail after the falls is challenging."
from $4 / night
Check Availability
ScoutWe stayed at one of the tent sites. Power and water at each side was a huge bonus. They had converters you could borrow for free for the plug. Bathrooms are old, but very well maintained and clean. For kids there’s 2 playgrounds, a fishing/ swimming pond, hiking trails. They told us they can also do pony rides but we never made it to the stables. We loved our stay and would definitely go back!
ScoutWe have been here twice. Site 10 (on water) and 38 (next to playground. The sites are huge, everything is clean, hot steady flow water can be tricky but as a mom of 7, I love that it feels secluded but is close to target and Publix! Love this place and it is our go to when we visit the North Georgia Revival. Highly recommend!
ScoutLoved this campground... Extra clean facilities. The atmosphere here felt serene and calm. Thoroughly enjoyed this relaxing trip. Would recommend this place!
TravelerThe Van Hook Glade campground was very well maintained and offered an abundance of privacy and seclusion with close access to Highlands, showers, and a large public recreation area. The entire site was well kept and the camp hosts were diligent in their duties, while providing privacy. I stayed for two nights and thoroughly enjoyed my time there. We went the first week of May and were able to enjoy the campground practically alone.
GuideSpent 3 nights in loop 1 #14. Site was smaller than expected but made it work. Campground is clean and well maintained, bathrooms clean with good water pressure and hot water. Rangers did the rounds every few hours in truck, but only in office 4-5 pm daily. Site held up well (no rivers) during thunderstorms.
TravelerVogel has always been one of our favorites. We have camped here for more than 50 years. Vogel has been around for over 95 years and the state has done a really good job maintaining and improving the park. They have redone most of the sites within the last several years. Because the campground is so old, the roads can be narrow and the sites a challenge for the giant rigs that have become popular today. There is a new visitor center with great views of the lake. During our April 2026 visit, the lake was completely drained for maintenance on the dam.
Vogel is one of the few campgrounds where you can actually camp under a dense canopy of old trees. If you want to escape the campgrounds that feel like you are parked in a Walmart parking lot, give Vogel a try.
ScoutThis was our first time here. Overall not a bad state park cg but it could have been nicer. There was a lot of erosion which affected the roads(gravel)around the CG. Out site was gravel and not completely level but manageable. The restrooms on our loop were very clean and well kept. The showers lack hooks or a shelf to put your stuff on so that was a drag. The staff was very pleasant and helpful and the overall vibe was peaceful once quiet time arrived. Again, not a bad CG, I would visit it again.
TravelerWe have stayed here many times. It is a basic state park campground with two clean bathhouses. There are really no amenities other that the wonderful setting on the shores of Lake Burton. Small and quiet with good views of the lake from most sites.
ScoutDecent spots, only thing is the Grill is part of the campfire ring and not separate
Campgrounds near Clarkesville, Georgia range in elevation from 1,200 to nearly 3,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between locations even within short driving distances. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide seasonal shade for many camping areas, with summer temperatures typically 8-10 degrees cooler at higher elevation sites like Black Rock Mountain compared to lakefront campgrounds. The region's watershed feeds several lakes and creeks that offer distinct camping environments.
Hiking to waterfalls: Several campgrounds offer waterfall access within short hiking distances. At Tallulah Gorge State Park, visitors encounter stairs leading to scenic viewpoints. "A ton of waterfalls. A very pretty gorge, you will walk up and down lots of stairs! Stop by if you are in the area," notes Aaron S. The park features 1,099 stairs to reach the canyon bottom.
Fishing opportunities: Seasonal trout fishing remains popular throughout the area. Moccasin Creek State Park provides dedicated fishing areas for specific groups. "The fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to seniors 65 and older and children 11 and younger, and any Georgia residents with a disability fishing license," explains one camper. The park includes a trout hatchery station that helps maintain fish populations.
Mountain biking trails: Several area campgrounds maintain dedicated biking routes. At Unicoi State Park, visitors can access varied terrain options. "Mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, etc. Will definitely be returning in the future!" reports Rebeca A., highlighting the park's recreational diversity.
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds offer direct lake or creek frontage. At River Falls at the Gorge, camping alongside the Tallulah River provides constant natural soundscapes. "What a spot. Right on the Tallulah river. Sleep to the sound of the river even in August. The valley is cool at night. The river warmer than you'd expect," describes Ron K.
Higher elevation cooling: During summer months, mountain campsites provide natural temperature relief. Black Rock Mountain State Park sits at Georgia's highest state park elevation. "Even though it was scorching out. We went two days not realizing it. We had lovely breezes and tree coverage," writes Elaine G. about the park's primitive camping area.
Geocaching opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain geocache locations for visitors. Lake Russell Recreation Area features multiple caches along its trail system. "We took an overnight backpacking trip here. The hiking trails are nice and there is a nice lake at the parking lot," notes Nicole P. about her geocaching experience in the region.
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in how close sites are positioned. "Vogel State Park is usually crowded and books quickly. Sites are VERY close together. No privacy at all," explains Maggie C., suggesting alternatives for those seeking more seclusion.
Seasonal closures: Higher elevation campgrounds typically close during winter months. Black Rock Mountain State Park operates from March 16 to December 17, while Moccasin Creek State Park runs from March 16 to November 30.
Bear activity: The area supports black bear populations requiring proper food storage. "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out. So pack out all food items and trash or hang a bear bag," warns one camper at Raven Cliff Falls.
Kid-friendly fishing programs: Several parks offer specialized fishing opportunities for children. "This campground is very kid friendly. They have a stream they stock with trout for kids 12 and under and seniors 65 and older. This park is a great place to allow kids to get into fishing and feel like they have accomplished something," explains Joshua G. about Moccasin Creek State Park.
Accessible activities for varied ages: Parks often provide options for different age groups. "We took our 19, 11, and 4 year old. Tested the trails and enjoyed plenty of scenic views," reports Robert R. about his family's Tallulah Gorge State Park experience.
Equipment rentals for water activities: Don Carter State Park offers equipment for enjoying Lake Lanier. "There's even a canoe trail! Campground is well maintained and bath houses are clean," explains Kevan R., highlighting water-based recreation options for families.
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The sites have a firepit, picnic bench - and table, and a lantern pole. Some of the sites were not very private and more open without shade. We were in number 15 and it was in our opinion the best one," advises Katrin M. about Black Rock Mountain sites.
Sewer hookup placement: At some campgrounds, hookup positioning can create challenges. "Our site was beautiful on River but our sewer hook up was not where we could access it so only had water/electric," notes Cassondra P. about River Falls at the Gorge, suggesting campers check hookup locations before selecting sites.
Limited space for larger rigs: Mountain terrain restricts site sizes at some campgrounds. "Staff is awesome. Any trailer longer than 25 feet is tight getting to back sites," cautions Ted D. about Black Rock Mountain, highlighting the importance of checking length restrictions before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best tent camping sites near Clarkesville, GA?
The Clarkesville area offers excellent tent camping options. Raven Cliff Falls provides gorgeous free camping with established sites, water access, and bathroom facilities, though it gets very busy on weekends. Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground is another popular spot, though it books quickly due to its proximity to the spectacular gorge. For tent campers seeking more primitive experiences, Lake Russell Recreation Area near Mt. Airy offers walk-in sites with a more secluded feel. All these options provide beautiful natural settings typical of northeast Georgia's mountain terrain.
What outdoor activities and attractions are available when camping near Clarkesville, GA?
The Clarkesville region is rich with outdoor activities. At Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground, you can enjoy extensive hiking trails with spectacular mountain views. Water enthusiasts will love Don Carter State Park Campground on Lake Lanier for swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. The area also offers mountain biking trails, whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River, fishing in mountain streams, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include the Alpine village of Helen, vineyards along the Georgia Wine Highway, and the natural beauty of Panther Creek Falls. In autumn, the region transforms with vibrant fall foliage, making it a perfect time for scenic drives and photography.
How far are the nearest camping sites from downtown Clarkesville, GA?
Several excellent camping options are located within a short drive from downtown Clarkesville. Moccasin Creek State Park Campground is approximately 15 miles northeast, offering sites with convenient bath house access. For those willing to drive a bit further, Tugaloo State Park Campground is roughly 25 miles east of Clarkesville, providing spacious campsites with plenty of trees and access to Lake Hartwell. Even closer options include Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping at about 10 miles away and private options like Nacoochee Adventures near Helen, approximately 18 miles from downtown Clarkesville.
Keep Exploring
