A. H. Stephens State Park campground sits amid the gently rolling landscape of eastern Georgia, approximately 100 miles east of Atlanta. The park spans across Taliaferro County's characteristic red clay soil, with elevation ranging between 480-520 feet above sea level. The region experiences typical Georgia Piedmont weather patterns with humid summers often reaching 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Several sites at A.H. Stephens provide natural buffer zones between camping areas, creating more personal space than typically found in state park settings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At A. H. Stephens State Park, visitors can access multiple fishing spots. "This state park has boats to rent, fishing, swimming equestrian camping, cabins etc... They have this large primitive area that we used," shares Elaine G., who enjoyed the variety of water activities.
Historical exploration: The park offers significant historical context beyond just outdoor recreation. "We did the A. H. Stephens museum tour and that was very nicely done. We did a day trip to Greensboro and walked the shops and went to Oconee Brewery," notes Cathy C., highlighting how the park serves as a good base for regional exploration.
Holiday festivities: Seasonal events provide additional entertainment beyond standard camping activities. "The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen. The park staff were so friendly," reports Mary G., who discovered unexpected seasonal programming during a December visit.
Water recreation: At Mistletoe State Park, just under an hour from Crawfordville, water activities form the centerpiece of recreation. "Great site 49, awesome views. Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," notes Stephanie K., emphasizing the lake access that campers enjoy.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing between sites. "We really like campgrounds that have a lot of room, space between each site and easy sites to get in to. AH Stephen's fits that bill! Comfort station was very clean," writes Debbie K., appreciating the thoughtful site layout.
Clean facilities: The comfort station renovation receives specific positive attention. "The shower house is new (2019) and is ADA. Also laundry is at shower house. Firewood for sale with camp host," notes Norris K., who appreciated these modern amenities.
Remote location: The secluded setting creates a peaceful atmosphere for glamping in Crawfordville. "The park located in small town. It is very quite, nothing is nearby. Walmart is 33 miles away, so you should stock up before camping there. Camp sites are big and far from each other," explains Luan N., highlighting both the isolation and the preparation needed.
Lakefront access: At Hamburg State Park, water proximity is a major attraction. "All most all sites are literally right on the lake. Extremely quite and literally in the middle of nowhere. If you want to rest and relax in solitude, this is you place," shares David Glenn M., emphasizing the park's remote, waterfront setting.
What you should know
Tent camping challenges: Not all sites work equally well for different camping styles. "This would be a nice park if you have an RV. We, however, were staying in a tent. The 'lakes' they claim to have are nothing more than a cess pond and a cute little paddle boat pond," cautions Nicole R., suggesting tent campers might find limitations.
Remote location preparation: The isolated location requires planning ahead. "The park located in small town. It is very quite, nothing is nearby. Walmart is 33 miles away, so you should stock up before camping there," advises Luan N., emphasizing the need to bring supplies.
Varying quality of water features: Lakes may not meet expectations depending on the season. "The 'lakes' they claim to have are nothing more than a cess pond and a cute little paddle boat pond," notes Nicole R., suggesting water features may disappoint some visitors.
Weather impacts: At Elijah Clark State Park, about 45 minutes from Crawfordville, lakefront sites can experience challenging conditions. "We camped overlooking the lake. We do advise if you're in a tent maybe not taking a direct lakefront spot because we literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," warns Kirsten W.
Tips for camping with families
Visit during holiday seasons: Special programming enhances family stays during holidays. "We stopped here for one night in December, passing through. The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen," shares Mary G., describing unexpected holiday activities.
Explore the museum: Historical elements provide educational value alongside outdoor recreation. "We loved the historical museum there too," mentions Elaine G., highlighting this cultural component perfect for family learning opportunities.
Choose sites carefully with children: At Winfield Campground, site selection matters for families. "This place has some great sites. Our site was #25. It's a level lot with a grill, fire ring, picnic table and another small table. It's right on the lake," explains Thomas, noting the amenities that make family camping comfortable.
Pack extra tent anchoring gear: Lake winds can affect tent stability in waterfront sites. "We literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," Kirsten W. cautions, sharing practical advice for securing tents when glamping in lakefront areas near Crawfordville.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Many campgrounds in the area require minimal leveling equipment. "AH Stephen's fits that bill! Comfort station was very clean, hosts available if needed and the campground wasn't overly packed with campers on top of each other," notes Debbie K., describing the manageable terrain.
Proximity to services: For those glamping in an RV near Crawfordville, Georgia, service distances should be considered. "About an hour to Augusta, GA, via interstate (Costco with gas/no diesel), lots of shopping and restaurants," mentions Norris K., providing useful information about distance to major services.
Utility hookup availability: At Hard Labor Creek State Park, hookup options vary by site. "We stayed on site # 2 (full hook up) and there was plenty of room to stretch out! We stayed in our 26' travel trailer," reports George & Patty C., highlighting the spacious full-hookup options.
Camp host services: On-site assistance is available for RV needs. "Firewood for sale with camp host. Ask camp host for tour of CCC built fire tower," suggests Norris K., noting additional services and experiences available through campground hosts.
