Franklin D Roosevelt State Park offers varied camping experiences within an hour's drive of Columbus, Georgia. The park spans over 9,000 acres of Pine Mountain terrain with elevation changes providing scenic views across west-central Georgia. Campsites sit between 800-1,400 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature variations between campground loops and affecting seasonal camping conditions.
What to do
Explore hiking networks: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park has extensive trail systems with varied difficulty levels. "First time I came here, I was about 12 years old. I returned when I bought my first camper at 34 years old and wanted to test it out for the first time. 3rd time, I brought my wife to show this amazing place. Great camping spots with lots of trees and a creek running through. Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area," notes Katie A. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park.
Visit nearby attractions: The Pine Mountain area provides convenient access to multiple regional points of interest. "Very clean and family friendly place. Trading post available for firewood And supplies. Also short drive from the animal safari, and Callaway Gardens," shares Paul N. about the park's location advantages.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways around Columbus offer strong fishing potential with varied species. "We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake. Loop 1 sites are lake front and lake view but more close together than we like," explains Liz H. about Blanton Creek Campground fishing access points.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation at certain campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms, lots of shade, fresh water pump and electric at our site. Not much privacy but the lake is beautiful and you can rent boats, plus lots of hiking and history around," reports Stephani about FDR State Park.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. "Sites are on the smallish side but well shaded. Site 1 has another site 15 feet behind it. (RV butts back to back). The bathhouse is heated and has five toilet stalls and four nicely tiled showers with benches," details Fran H. about Blanton Creek Campground's amenities.
Military facilities: Military Park Fort Benning Uchee Creek Army Campground and Marina receives high marks for its specialized accommodations. "The park has too much to list for amenities! Dog park, clean laundry facilities, camping, chalets, excellent pull thru's, boat rental, post access and MWR office, and more! Check website for eligibility," notes Foster L.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We stayed to go hiking over at Providence Canyon. It was a short ten minute drive. The staff and crew were all amazing, and sites easy with large pull thru access. Cell service spotty, but it's camping. Amazing stay!" reports Joe R. about Florence Marina State Park.
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Nice, quiet campground. Wonderful lake views from most of the sites. We love camping at Amity. It is currently only open from April to Labor Day. We would love it even more if the Corps of Engineers would keep it open all year long," explains Amanda D. about seasonal restrictions.
Gate restrictions: Some parks enforce strict nighttime closure policies. "But beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity," cautions Denis P. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds have structured play areas for children. "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that your kids loved doing. We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on," shares Joshua H.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to lake shorelines. "Very nice camp ground owned by Ga Power! It is taken very good care of! Right on the lake!" notes Cynthia S. about swimming possibilities at Blanton Creek.
Yurt camping Columbus, Georgia: Chewacla State Park offers alternative accommodation options for families not prepared for tent camping. "There are glamping tents for rent. Several hiking trails, including a waterfall trail are inside the gate checkpoint. The park is close to town, meaning abundance of food options and cheap gas," explains Tom C. about the yurt and glamping options that provide a bridge between camping and cabin stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers recommend researching specific site dimensions before booking. "Very nice spacious pull thru sites on asphalt pads. Swimming pool, bait and tackle store. Boat launch on the Chattahoochee river. This location is owned and operated by the Ft Benning MWR and is located just outside the gates of Ft. Benning on the Alabama side of the Chattahoochee River. 72 RV Sites w 15,30, 50A/S/CATV," advises Andrew W.
Utility concerns: Some campgrounds have inconsistent electrical service. "We stayed in site # 16 it has full hook up. The park was busy it was Halloween they have a haunted boat ride and a hayride. Great place to spend Halloween. It was decorated well and there was a fest going on we won a basket of goodies," shares B M. about Florence Marina State Park's seasonal amenities.
Leveling requirements: Terrain variations can complicate RV setup in certain locations. "The park is relatively small but it's very well kept. Small rigs can pretty much enjoy any spot but larger rigs need to be sure that the site is level for the length of the rig. Some spots have a driveway that goes downhill from the camper and others go uphill from the camper which might be an issue for 5th wheels," cautions Stacy H.
