Camping near Commerce, Georgia offers lake-focused sites within a network of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state park campgrounds. The region sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with moderate humidity levels and average summer temperatures in the upper 80s. Winter camping remains viable with typical lows rarely dropping below freezing, allowing for extended camping seasons across most facilities.
What to do
Kayaking access from campsites: At Duckett Mill, kayakers can launch directly from waterfront sites. "Very relaxing Campground with spacious sites right on the water. Clean bathrooms and bathhouse. Pet friendly," notes Brett D. However, some sites require navigating steep banks to reach the water.
Swimming beach areas: Bolding Mill provides designated swimming areas separate from the main campground. "We had a beautiful view of the water and awoke to sun on the water. Very few mosquitos and lovely weather," reports Craig J., though the "concrete beach not so great" according to Nancy B.
Fishing spots: Lake Russell Recreation Area offers accessible shoreline fishing with designated areas. "Beautiful lake for fishing with hiking trails around. There's plenty of dispersed picnic area for day use," explains Elizabeth G. Bank fishing is permitted year-round, with crappie and bass being common catches during spring and fall.
Trail systems: Victoria Bryant State Park features interconnected trail networks directly from camping areas. "Lots of trails and great creek swimming spots for the dogs," notes Kim M., who plans "a trip back late summer so we can enjoy the water." The trail system includes creek access points where pets can cool off during hikes.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Victoria Bryant State Park offers unique sheltered platform sites. "All of the tent sites are sheltered platforms, with electricity, potable water and an overhead light. Rain or shine, you can have a good time (and stay dry)," explains Everette G. These sites include standard amenities with additional weather protection.
Walk-in sites for privacy: Fort Yargo State Park features secluded walk-in options. "If you're like me and appreciate a bit of privacy when camping, the walk-in campsites at Fort Yargo are the place to go. Just a short 1-2 minutes walk from your car and bathrooms, but you feel much more secluded," writes Amalia K.
Laundry facilities: Don Carter State Park provides on-site laundry, a rarity among area campgrounds. "The campground hosts were friendly and they kept the bath houses/laundry facilities spotless!" notes George & Patty C. For extended stays, this convenience eliminates trips into town for laundromat services.
Mid-week quiet: Lake Russell Recreation Area offers notably peaceful conditions during weekdays. "We booked a last minute night here for Easter weekend to get out of the city. It was so peaceful! There's one bathroom in Loop A. With 2 stalls and one shower in the women's portion," shares Elizabeth G. The lower occupancy rates create a completely different camping experience compared to weekends.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some Corps of Engineers campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Duckett Mill runs "March 29 to September 15" annually, while others like Old Federal operate "March 29 to October 30," requiring off-season alternative camping locations.
Connectivity issues: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Russell Recreation Area, Elizabeth G. reports "I have Verizon and I had one bar here. Enough to send/receive a text but that's about it." Plan accordingly if remote work is necessary.
Tent site limitations: Georgia RV Park in Commerce primarily serves RVs with limited tent options. "As of right now, they are in the middle of construction to transfer over to a KOA campground...The only tent sites they offer are primitive and it's a bit of a walk to the bathrooms," notes Amber H.
Storm frequency: Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common at lakeside campgrounds. "We had thunderstorm each evening," reports Liz H. at Duckett Mill, adding that the "fire pits are great and drain well" during these typical weather events. Most facilities remain open during storms, but outdoor activities require flexible scheduling.
Tips for camping with families
Playground alternatives: Don Carter State Park offers both structured and natural play areas. "We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," shares Cameron G. These areas provide alternatives to traditional playground equipment.
Creek activities: Victoria Bryant State Park features natural water play areas. "The kids MOST enjoyed the 'rock slide' in the creek. We spent most of the day there, and the weather (late August) was perfect!" explains Sonyia W. These creek areas provide safe alternatives to lake swimming for younger children.
Animal watching opportunities: Wildlife viewing peaks during specific times. "From 6 in the evening and beyond you will find deer grazing in late summer and early fall, also raccoons and other small animals can be spotted roaming in some of the open areas," advises Crystal C. about Don Carter State Park.
Tent shelter benefits: The sheltered platforms at Victoria Bryant State Park offer unique family advantages. "Tent sites have outlets, water and a light! Really beautiful easy hiking near by and a nice place to swim. Great for an easy family trip," explains Jessica D., highlighting the "glamping" aspects that make family camping more accessible.
Tips from RVers
Grey water systems: Fort Yargo State Park offers dedicated grey water disposal options. "No FHU, but they do have grey water dumps in numerous places in campground. The staff was helpful. Our site was very level, and pull through," explains Judi P. This arrangement eliminates frequent trips to the main dump station.
Site selection for large rigs: Tallulah Gorge State Park requires careful site selection for larger vehicles. "No matter how we did it our steps to the trailer came right in front of the giant cement table, which was nerve wrecking with little kids," explains Amy F., noting site width limitations despite beautiful surroundings.
Satellite limitations: Heavy tree coverage impacts satellite reception at most area campgrounds. Fort Yargo State Park offers cable connections at sites to compensate, with one camper noting "our site was very level, and pull through" with good utility connections despite the wooded setting.
