Newton County and the surrounding areas of Georgia provide diverse camping options within reach of Stone Mountain. The region features a mix of state parks, recreation areas, and private farms at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional freezing nights.
What to do
Trail exploration and hiking: Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems for various skill levels. "We were able to walk off of the back of our site and onto the trail system, which is perfect because we are avid hikers," notes camper George & Patty C. The park maintains well-marked paths throughout its wooded areas.
Water activities on nearby lakes: Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area provides waterfront sites with river access. According to Addison C., "They have many water front campsites with a lot of room. They have a box platform for your tent." The shoals area creates natural swimming spots and fishing opportunities.
Equestrian adventures: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Stone Mountain, Georgia, Don Carter State Park recently added equestrian facilities. As George & Patty C. mentioned, the park features "hiking trails, geocaches, a beach area, picnic shelters, cottages and a brand new equestrian trail system!" This makes it a prime destination for horseback riding enthusiasts.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Hard Labor Creek State Park gets high marks for site layout. One camper noted, "The campground is not cramped at all and most of the sites are spread apart to provide privacy!" This spacing allows for a more secluded camping experience despite the park's popularity.
Clean, modern facilities: Renovated bathhouses are a common highlight at several horse-friendly camping options near Stone Mountain. Winston M. observed at Hard Labor Creek, "This park is just renovated, the bathhouses are clean nice and big... The sites are pretty big, shaded, no level but not too bad I'm always prepared, and well maintained."
Farm-based camping experience: Liberty Stables offers a unique camping environment. As Leslie V. states, "We really enjoyed our time at Liberty Stables! Will definitely stay there again as our granddaughters live nearby!" The working farm setting provides a different atmosphere than traditional campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most state parks require advance booking, but Factory Shoals uses a different approach. Nicolle explains, "This campground is first come, first serve. It is $15 dollars a night. Some of the sites are waterfront." Understanding each location's reservation policy prevents disappointment.
Seasonal crowds fluctuate: Hard Labor Creek experiences significant weekend crowding during peak seasons. Christina noted, "The weekend nights were so crowded with cars spilling into the camp roads, loads of large groups at each site. Felt very claustrophobic. On weekdays the park became a (lovely) ghost town."
Tent platform considerations: At Factory Shoals, tent campers should be prepared for the site design. According to Nicolle, "Each of the sites have a raised gravel platform for tents, a grill, trash can, and a fire pit." These platforms help with drainage but require appropriate tent stakes or alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Don Carter State Park suits families new to camping. Christopher P. shares, "Great spot by the lake. Private, plenty of access to the water, not too far from parking lot end. Watch the boats launch if you want to or easy to fish." The proximity to facilities makes it manageable for those with young children.
Animal interaction opportunities: For families wanting educational farm experiences near Stone Mountain's equestrian areas, Rachel notes about Liberty Stables: "Beautiful property with farm animals to look at." This provides children with opportunities to observe various farm animals in a camping context.
Budget-conscious amenities: Factory Shoals Recreation Park delivers value with its affordable rates. Addison C. mentioned, "Such a great campsite for very cheap. They have many water front campsites with a lot of room." The low nightly fee makes this an economical option for family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site surface challenges: Some parks have paved RV sites that may not appeal to all campers. Joel R. warns about Don Carter State Park: "Who ever decided that every campsite needed to be asphalt should be hung! This is a newer State Park in Georgia and it could be nice, but it's been paved over. They classify them as RV sites, but they are parking lots."
Size restrictions at equestrian campgrounds: RVers looking for horse-friendly camping near Stone Mountain should check site dimensions. At Newton Factory Shoals, Nicolle advises: "This campground is definitely set up for primitive camping, focusing more on tents. We have a 10 foot trailer. We were able to back in to our spot with no problem... an RV would probably have a hard time setting up here."
Full hookup availability: Big Country Camping offers comprehensive RV amenities. James shares, "Very nice owners. Very quiet and peaceful location. I had a full hookup site. Owners helped me get situated. Loaned me a water hose. Felt very safe here. Beautiful sunrise. Excellent cell signal which is important since I work remotely from my camper."
