Big Hart Campground - J Strom Thurmond Lake
Clean and quiet camping area with clean bathrooms.
Beautiful camping area.
Georgia's state parks system offers diverse camping options across several regions, from the mountainous north to the coastal plains. Cloudland Canyon State Park, Red Top Mountain, and Vogel State Park provide developed campgrounds with cabin accommodations, tent sites, and RV hookups. Many Georgia campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping with electric, water, and sewer connections. State park campgrounds typically include amenities such as showers, toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, while several parks also offer cabin rentals and yurts for those seeking more comfort.
Many Georgia campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer brings higher temperatures and humidity, particularly in southern regions. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons, especially for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. Most state parks require advance bookings through the Georgia State Parks reservation system, with sites typically available up to 13 months in advance. Some parks maintain first-come, first-served sites, but these fill quickly during popular seasons. According to one visitor, "Lawrence Shoals Campground is one of the nicest, cleanest, and well-cared-for parks. Most state parks could take a lesson from the operators of these parks."
Water access represents a significant draw for many Georgia campers, with lakefront sites at Skidaway Island State Park, Lake Lanier, and other reservoir campgrounds consistently receiving high ratings. Several campgrounds offer boat ramps, fishing opportunities, and swimming areas alongside camping facilities. Mountain campgrounds in north Georgia provide access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views, particularly in the Chattahoochee National Forest region. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers appreciate the peaceful settings and natural surroundings at many Georgia campgrounds. One camper noted that Trackrock Campground offers "beautifully well-maintained, clean grounds with a beautiful lake and stables, plenty of room, yet campsites are tucked away to also give you a private feel." Wildlife viewing opportunities vary by region, with coastal areas offering bird watching while mountain campgrounds may provide opportunities to spot deer and smaller mammals.
$10 - $270 / night
"Campground Review:East Rim Campground Pro’s: 1-Handicap Accessible, there is a cabin which is also HDA. 2- If your visiting for a get together your right next to the day use area and there is a picnic"
"Cloudland Canyon State Park is worth the drive. Located between I75 and I59 in Georgia, outside Trenton and below Chattanooga, Tn. The scenery on the way in is breathtaking and varied."
$45 - $165 / night
"My favorite campground...nestled in a maritime forest, the live oaks and Spanish moss, drip and dance around you, lending an air of romance and other- worldly feel."
"Huge shady sites in beautiful Georgia Marshlands. Very close to downtown Savannah and Tybee Island. We will definitely be back!"
$44 - $65 / night
"Lived in Georgia my whole life and yet my first time to Stone Mountain was literally three years ago. Now we have an annual pass and go all the time."
"One of the best camping areas in Georgia."
$40 - $275 / night
"Many were positioned right on the lake. The trails in the park were great for hiking and running. We enjoyed visiting the Qualusi Winery that was nearby."
"I camped at Red Top regularly when I lived in Georgia 28 years ago. I’ll definitely be returning."
$36 - $100 / night
"Spent one night on the road here at a RV site on the lakeside camping area (they also offer additional entrance to river side camping.) Busy but courteous neighbors."
"The site has a good distance between the camper and it's "passenger" side so it's like not having a neighbor on that side."
$30 - $260 / night
"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."
$12 - $175 / night
"Mistletoe State Park is another great Georgia State Park."
"We spent a couple of nights in Mistletoe State Park in Georgia while we investigated my husband's ancestry. This park is truly beautiful."
$36 - $45 / night
"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."
"It’s perfectly situated to visit all the cute towns in northern Georgia and they have well maintained sites, hiking trails, and a swim beach not far."
$12 - $230 / night
"We enjoyed the well-kept campground and explored the civil war fort which inspired discussions of Georgia’s history. Too hot to have an enjoyable hike, though."
"Even in winter, Fort McCallister campground was nearly full and for the most part with large, really large and really, really large RVs."
"Planned a trip with friends to Tybee Island Georgia, just outside Savannah. It rained the first couple of days we were there, but still were Able to get out and enjoy the sites sounds and food. "
"Location is great. Not right on the beach but a short walking distance.(NOTE: DO NOT WALK YOUR DOG ON THE BEACH- they do not give warnings and the fine is close to$300)."












Beautiful camping area.
I have been to FDR 3 times in the last 3 years and I hope to come more frequently. I came here multiple times over 50 years ago and I find it as enjoyable now as I did then. The check in is always easy. It is quiet there and there is so much to do. The trails are great for hiking. The facilities are always clean.
Georgia state parks are always nice but this is my favorite.
If I could give these guys 1/2 a star, I'd go with that. Their applaingly rude behavior truly deserves no stars. Though they advertise as a place that offers month to month business, my husband and I were offering them a guaranteed month to month business for a good bit of time while working in the area, however long they would work with us on, bouncing to another place if we exceeded their desired amount of time, and both people we spoke with- a woman one day and a man named Justin another, were very rude and"uppity/snooty". We have a 2023 Primetime Sanibel Widebody 5th wheel, 43 feet in length, very nice condition, and are two professional people(my husband an Operations Manager for a billboard company and I a Bid/Dept Manager for a Food Distributor, with a combined income of over$175k per year) and their response was"we wouldn't be a good fit" after we spoke with them guaranteeing we would abide by their strict rules. When we mentioned we may once in a blue moon babysit our grandkids while there, before I even finished my sentence, we were given a very terse response which was a strong indicator they do not want kids there. Obviously not family friendly. They mentioned not wanting"trashy trailers" and"trailer trash" type people in their campground- of which we aren't, but wow, the judgement- and that they currently have some campers they are"trying to be rid of", so camp with ease or expect to be thrown out. They want only new campers there, and royalty. I guess if you take a stab at them you'll have to see if you meet their high standards or contrarily meet their definition of"trailer trash". Beware, if your camper, though well maintianed yet only a 2021 model, you're trailer trash. Again, very picky, very high standards, strict rules, unbending, uppity, and just rude with a"holier than though" attitude. Apparently not very interested in keeping their business running either. We drove through the park on 4/20/26 and over half their campsites were empty. I wonder why. Yet, they turn down guaranteed month to month business for a time we were willing to allow them to designate. We will gladly take our business elsewhere to a much friendlier staff at a nicer, more secure campground nearby we have recently learned of- where we won't have to listen to trains pass behind us all day, and can watch kids be kids and play. Sad thing is, we've given them our business before while in Columbus, but never will again, and will tell all we know of a large group of campers we are affiliated with of their rude, snooty ways. Traveling through the area? I'd recommend staying elsewhere. Corps of Engineer parks on nearby West Point Lake(Amity, Shaefer Hard, Holiday, and WhiteTail Ridge), a campground on nearby Lake Harding(Blanton Creek), two near Fort Benning(one GA side- Camp David, the other AL side), one in Fort Benning(Uchee Creek), a KOA in nearby Americus, Ga and Auburn RV Resort in nearby Auburn, AL to name just a few. That is, unless you like to hobknob with the snooty folk.
Nice updated CCC corp campground. Large sites,level full hookup. Most if not all have a view of the lake. We are here on a Monday but very quiet .We are in an Airstream 28 foot but several large rigs , class A and 5th wheels Not close to full but I expect very busy in the summer and weekends. I would definitely make a reservation just 90 miles from Atlanta
First time traveling whilst using this app, and so far these camp site is more than I personally could ask for. Nice level ground for pit, and plenty of shade. 10 outa 10.
Quiet, well maintained park with plenty of room between sites, it’s $5 a day paid via a drop box at the front. Also has a boat launch.
Nice campground with showers and bathroom. There are some trails that go down to a nearby lake.
This place is the worst Ive ever stayed at. The office and pool look great. Nothing else does. It looks and feels sketchy and unsafe. If you get stuck anywhere near that highway you will get no sleep. The traffic is constant day and night, loud trucks and speed limit is 55 mph so it like sleeping in the middle of the interstate. We've slept better at a rest area or truck stop. The park feels dirty and dingy, the one side of the park has an 8 ft section of the fence busted out. The only landscaping is at the office. Save your money and find somewhere else or go to a rest area.
We 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.
Camping in Georgia offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, Georgia's campgrounds have something for everyone.
Camping in Georgia can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free or low-cost camping sites in Georgia?
Georgia offers several free and low-cost camping options for budget-conscious campers. Raven Cliff Falls stands out as a gorgeous free campground with established sites, water access, and bathroom facilities. The area is divided into a camp side and trail side but becomes very busy on weekends, so weekday visits are recommended. Ocmulgee WMA Primitive Camping provides free primitive camping opportunities for those seeking a more rustic experience. For affordable options with more amenities, Georgia's many Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically charge modest fees compared to private campgrounds while still offering beautiful lakeside settings and basic facilities.
What amenities should I expect at Georgia state park campgrounds?
Georgia state park campgrounds typically offer well-maintained facilities including clean restrooms with hot showers, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Most have a mix of tent and RV sites with electrical hookups. Don Carter State Park Campground exemplifies the spacious design of many Georgia state parks, with generous distance between campsites and clean facilities throughout. Georgia Veterans State Park Campground showcases the diversity of options available with multiple camping loops, lake access, and proximity to resort amenities. Many parks feature dump stations, laundry facilities, camp stores, boat ramps, swimming areas, and extensive trail systems. Most Georgia state parks require reservations, which can be made online or by phone.
What are the best campgrounds in Georgia for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors to Georgia, Stone Mountain Park Campground offers an ideal introduction with its world-renowned attractions including fireworks, laser shows, and beautiful natural areas. It's a perfect balance of developed amenities and outdoor experiences. Skidaway Island State Park Campground near Savannah is another excellent choice, featuring stunning maritime forest with live oaks and Spanish moss that create a romantic, otherworldly atmosphere. The park is located on an island accessible by causeway with beautiful marsh and river views. Both locations provide well-maintained facilities and easy access to nearby attractions, making them perfect launching points for exploring Georgia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
What's the best time of year for tent camping in Georgia?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal for tent camping in Georgia, offering mild temperatures and lower humidity. Fort Mountain State Park Campground is particularly appealing during summer months, as its elevation provides cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, with private wooded campsites that make Georgia's summer heat more tolerable. Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground in the north Georgia mountains also offers relief from summer heat due to its higher elevation. Winter camping (November-February) can be enjoyable in southern Georgia with fewer crowds, but northern regions may experience freezing temperatures, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
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