Lake Russell Recreation Area sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Mount Airy, Georgia. The area features a non-motorized lake surrounded by forested campgrounds and hiking trails. Campers can expect limited to no cell service throughout most of the region, with temperatures ranging from mid-40s to low-80s during the prime camping season.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 3-5 miles: At Tallulah Gorge State Park, hiking the gorge offers dramatic views and varied terrain. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," notes Jamie M. The suspension bridge view is especially worth the effort.
Lake swimming: seasonal access: Don Carter State Park provides a sandy beach area on Lake Lanier. According to Crystal C., "I took a dip in the cool waters and though they were not a clear blue they were clear and I could see to the bottom all the way out to the edge of the swimming zone."
Mountain biking: various skill levels: Unicoi State Park offers trail systems for different riding abilities. Rebeca A. mentions, "A lot of activities to do! Mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, etc." The park maintains designated biking routes separate from hiking trails.
Creek tubing: weather dependent: Relax in the gentle currents at River Falls at the Gorge. "Tubing the river is great fun and easy to do without leaving the campground," says Clay M. The water level varies based on dam releases upstream.
What campers like
Morning wildlife viewing: dawn hours: Early risers at Vogel State Park might spot native wildlife. "We go camping every memorial day weekend and this year it was at Don Carter. We love this camp ground!" reports Cameron G. "Our campsite backed up to one of the hiking trails and our little guy loved it!"
Creek-side campsites: limited availability: Many campers prefer sites near running water for natural white noise. At Raven Cliff Falls, "We absolutely loved being by the creek, and a lot of the sites are spread out to give a good bit of privacy," according to D & Jess W.
Primitive camping options: pack-in required: For those seeking seclusion, primitive sites offer more privacy. Hanna P. reports about Lake Russell: "I love this campground! It feels pretty secluded from the city because of the long drive in. Beautiful sites and plenty of trails nearby. My friend and I brought our hammocks and enjoyed a very peaceful weekend."
Lower weekday crowds: Sunday-Thursday: Midweek stays offer a quieter experience. Crystal C. notes, "I went to Don Carter mid week after a holiday and the place was pretty empty. While usually that would be a bit weird this park made it one of the most amazing feelings on earth."
What you should know
Bear activity: food storage required: Multiple campgrounds report bear encounters. At Raven Cliff Falls, "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 D & Jess W.
Limited reservations: seasonal planning: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. Elizabeth W. explains about Lake Russell Recreation Area: "Not as cramped & crowded as State parks. First loop is first come first serve, with sites closer to the beach side of lake, if you're there in the summer."
Terrain considerations: site selection matters: The mountainous terrain affects campsite layout. At Black Rock Mountain, Mark D. states, "It should go without saying but nothing here is flat. And after heavy rains some of the trails are not in the best of shape, quite rutted and muddy."
Road access limitations: vehicle size restrictions: Many campgrounds have narrow access roads. George & Patty C. warn, "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)."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water play: supervised areas: Several campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. According to Diane G., "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi State Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake."
Multi-generational trails: varied difficulties: Select trails appropriate for different ages. Robert R. at Tallulah Gorge reports, "Really enjoyed camping here with my family. Took our 19, 11, and 4 year old. Tested the trails and enjoyed plenty of scenic views."
Playground access: energy outlets: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "There are two separate children's playgrounds... One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area," notes Dave V. about Vogel State Park.
Evening frog chorus: natural entertainment: Kids enjoy the nighttime amphibian sounds. WDRoberson shares about Lake Russell: "The campground and lake was beautiful with a few easy hiking trails and clean restrooms."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: bring blocks: The mountainous terrain creates challenges for larger rigs. At Currahee RV Park, Brett D. notes, "Only issue with the site is that the sewer drain is much higher than the pad and camper."
Water/electric limitations: tank management: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. Michael from Lake Russell advises, "Water was located through out the campgrounds. We stayed in the back loop which is more level."
Site separation: privacy considerations: RV sites often have limited screening. Andrea W. says of River Falls at the Gorge, "The sites closest to the highway are full hookup, gravel lots and there is a paved drive. Sites that are in the bend of the river are water/power only and the bath house down there is not as nice as the one up front."
Turn radius planning: access challenges: Mountain roads require careful navigation. Joel R. cautions about Don Carter, "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."
Ranger
