Best Campgrounds near Cumming, GA

Cumming, Georgia provides access to several water-based camping experiences, with most campgrounds situated along Lake Lanier's scenic shoreline. Bald Ridge Creek and Sawnee Campground feature waterfront sites where campers can enjoy direct lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. The area predominantly offers established campgrounds with amenities rather than primitive camping, accommodating both tent and RV camping with electric hookups and water available at most sites. Most campgrounds maintain concrete pads suitable for various camping setups, though some restrict tent placement to designated areas only.

Reservations are strongly recommended for Lake Lanier campgrounds, particularly during the peak season from late spring through early fall when waterfront sites fill quickly. The camping season for many sites runs from March through November, with limited year-round options available. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including restrooms, drinking water, and trash collection, though shower facilities vary by location. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with Verizon users reporting adequate coverage at most campgrounds. A visitor noted, "Town is not far, cell service on Verizon is 2 bars at best. Campsite has concrete level pad, water, 30/50 amp service, grill, lantern pole and fire ring."

Lake access represents the defining feature of camping in the Cumming area, with numerous reviews highlighting the waterfront experience as the primary draw. Many campgrounds offer direct lake access from individual sites, creating opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing directly from camp. The terrain is generally mild with some sites featuring small elevation changes near the shoreline. Bathroom facilities receive mixed reviews, with some visitors noting they are clean but dated. Morning and afternoon shade is available at many lakefront sites, though midday sun exposure can be significant during summer months. According to one camper, "Site 32 is a nice level site with plenty of room. Very close to the lakeshore with morning and afternoon shade, otherwise pretty direct sun overhead around noon."

Best Camping Sites Near Cumming, Georgia (341)

    1. Bald Ridge Creek

    23 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 889-1591

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"

    "It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."

    2. Shady Grove Campground

    24 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 205-6850

    $20 - $240 / night

    "This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."

    "If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."

    3. Shoal Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    Buford, GA
    7 miles
    Website

    "There was a nice flat area to set up food, bonfire, chairs, games and to lounge around with family and the dogs. Bathrooms were nice and close to campground, within walking distance."

    "Communication with the main number for the campground went through the Margaritaville Campground nearby. Separate direct lines to the camp office and security were provided after arrival."

    4. Old Federal

    19 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 967-6757

    $20 - $36 / night

    "Our site was walking distance to the bathhouse, playground and swimming."

    "Grounds were great with easy access to the lake."

    5. Bolding Mill

    21 Reviews
    Murrayville, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 534-6960

    $20 - $36 / night

    "It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."

    "Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"

    6. Duckett Mill

    18 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 532-9802

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times."

    "Great location on Lake Lanier. The sites are very large and trees between most sites. Lots of water view sites, some have easier lake access from your site than others for our kayaks."

    7. Stone Mountain Park Campground

    92 Reviews
    Stone Mountain, GA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 498-5710

    $44 - $65 / night

    "Lived in Georgia my whole life and yet my first time to Stone Mountain was literally three years ago. Now we have an annual pass and go all the time."

    "One of the best camping areas in Georgia."

    8. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    59 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 265-4703

    "It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."

    "If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."

    9. Sawnee

    7 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 887-0592

    $20 - $46 / night

    "As for us we are avid hikers so we stuck to the trails. There are a few trails that interconnect so we hike for hours(which we loved). Although we did not camp we are definitely coming back to do so."

    "On a peninsula this little gem on Lake Lanier, with wooded lots, is the perfect relaxation spot for RV & Tent campers."

    10. Margaritaville

    6 Reviews
    Lake Sidney Lanier, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (470) 323-3486

    $63 - $100 / night

    "We had a pave site full hookup pull thru with lake view. Very easy to get in and out, private and quiet, we had a picnic table, fire ring and bbq grill."

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Recent Reviews near Cumming, GA

1381 Reviews of 341 Cumming Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    Red top mountain state park

    Plenty of campsites, some on the lake. RV, tents, yurts. Spaces 1-12 are especially nice since they are spacious and can handle class A and 5th wheelers. All 12 have water electric and sewer. We have a class C and prefer 1-12 because there is plenty of space between sites.

  • Kayla D.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bald Ridge Creek

    It’s a NO from us

    I wanted to wait a few days before writing this review — truthfully, I wanted to wait until after we checked out. I dreaded the retribution of Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Farmer, the campground manager, which I was sure would follow.

    Our church group had been looking forward to this camping trip for nearly a year. I’ve personally camped at Bald Ridge Creek Campground many times and never had a single issue — until now. Our church typically takes two group trips a year at another Forsyth County campground, but this year, we decided to rent nine sites at Bald Ridge. Even Cindy seemed excited that we were coming!

    We’re a Baptist group — not exactly known for our wild nights. We sing, we fellowship, and we’re back in our campers by 10 p.m. But according to “Queen Cindy,” you’d think we were a pack of college kids throwing keg parties.

    Our crime? An evening of worship and fellowship — a small keyboard, a guitar, and around 50 people spread over three campsites for a couple of hours each night. Cindy declared it an “event” (apparently forbidden) and told us we couldn’t do it again and threatened to make us all leave. She also banned us from eating together — saying we could gather while serving food but had to disperse to our own campsites immediately once we got our plates.

    The only actual rule violation came from one site where a tent wasn’t put up right away. Cindy seized on that excuse to call dispatch and have three sheriff’s deputies sent to “deal with” our peaceful group of families, children, and worshipers.

    To their credit, the deputies couldn’t have been kinder, yet embarrassed that they even had to be there. They laughed at the situation, noting they’re called out to the campground frequently because of Cindy’s pettiness and made-up rules. They said our little keyboard — which Cindy had described like it was a baby grand piano — was no problem at all. They simply advised us to set up the tent and let her stomp it out.

    Cindy even claimed that someone had called the Corps of Engineers to report us — at 7:00 p.m., during the government shutdown, when the office wasn’t even open. 🙄

    For context, Cindy lives at the campground for free as part of her role as host. It’s time for someone new to take over. She also wears a body camera and records campers (which is legal, I know), but as a county employee, those recordings are public record.

    We’ll continue to pray without ceasing for her — that the Lord softens her heart. But until then, I can’t recommend Bald Ridge Creek Campground to anyone who values fair treatment, hospitality, or simple human kindness.

  • George M.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Mulky Campground

    Great location for fishing

    A lot of the campsites are right on the water, so it's super easy to fish. But if you want something more private, there are also some secluded spots up the road.

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Rules not enforced

    The sites are very small and very close together. The lake does have beautiful views. I give 1 star because no rules are enforced. There was no quiet time for us. People were partying, loud music, yelling, being loud up to 3/4am. Both Friday and Saturday nights. It was so bad Friday night that we went to the local Dollar Tree for EAR PLUGS so we could sleep Saturday night. The gate is locked at 10pm however the gate will let you out. A camper below us went to the gate about 11pm and let 2 other cars in. 1 vehicle went out, 3 come in. No rules are enforced. We do not recommend it. The host site is an eye sore. It needs to be cleaned up. It's such a mess! The lake is so beautiful, though.

  • A
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Margaritaville

    Best Campground Ever

    My wife and I went here for a week back in June 2025. I’ve been to many campgrounds in my day and I can say this one by far is the best. Clean campsites, fun amenities and great golf.

    We went to a Braves game one night since it is only an hour away and made may fond memories. I have already scheduled my week to go back again in 2026!

  • G F.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Overpriced

    Like some of the other privately managed Georgia state parks, our visit here was disappointing.

    The issues started at the welcome center. The RV parking area was full of cars, even though plenty of regular parking spots were open. When we mentioned it to staff, the response was dismissive — one employee told us, “that’s above my paygrade.”

    The restroom at the welcome center was also a low point. The toilets are stainless steel with no seats — the kind you’d expect to see in a jail — and designed so shallow that whether you sit or hover, you end up getting splashed. It’s an unpleasant and unsanitary setup.

    The campground itself felt neglected, with rotting picnic tables and a general lack of upkeep. It’s also isolated from the rest of the park — there isn’t even a connector trail from the camping area to a single hiking trail, which makes it feel cut off from the very amenities most people come for. At $60 a night, you’d expect at least a basic map of the trails and amenities, but instead you’re told to snap a photo of a cardboard display. That felt like corner-cutting.

    One memorable (and concerning) part of the stay was the bear activity. In September, several bears came through the campground, startling tent campers who had to retreat inside their cars for safety.

    All in all, while the natural setting of Amicalola Falls is beautiful, the way the park is managed left the overall experience underwhelming and, at times, frustrating.

  • Ney N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Woodring Branch Primitive Campground — Carters Lake

    Slice of heaven cost: $10

    My partner always said he loved going here as a kid, so we went. $10 a night was a bargain and I did not expect much. The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept. It was quiet, beautiful, and an absolute slice of heaven. We went swimming and exploring. It did not feel overcrowded or busy. We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world.


Guide to Cumming

Camping near Cumming, Georgia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The hike to the base of the Gorge is strenuous with LOTS of stair steps back up but if you can do it certainly worth it."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Don Carter State Park Campground. Campers have noted, "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there’s even a canoe trail!"
  • Swimming: Relax at the beach area at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground. One camper shared, "We had so much fun... swimming at the beach it was very convenient."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground said, "The best shower of my camping experience so far! Hot water and great water pressure- what a treat!"
  • Friendly staff: Many campers have praised the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Stone Mountain Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are usually clean and staff are friendly."
  • Activities for families: Campgrounds like Vogel State Park Campground offer various activities. A camper noted, "The kids had loads of fun playing by the little rivers."

What you should know

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to."
  • Additional fees: Be prepared for extra costs, like parking fees. One camper at Stone Mountain Park Campground pointed out, "On top of the $70 a night you must pay a $20 parking fee."
  • Payment methods: Some campgrounds only accept cash for certain transactions. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground noted, "You need to do it by cash only."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for activities: Choose a campground with plenty of family-friendly activities. One camper at Fort Yargo State Park Campground said, "Kids can ride bikes everywhere, play some putt-putt or on the playground."
  • Check for amenities: Look for campgrounds with clean bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping mentioned, "The campground was neat, clean, and quiet."
  • Bring outdoor games: Having games on hand can keep kids entertained. One camper at Fort Mountain State Park Campground noted, "There are a lot of hiking trails as well as the lake where you can rent paddle boats, swim or fish."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground said, "The roads are a little confusing and tight and the sights are pretty unlevel."
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Don Carter State Park Campground mentioned, "Has grey tank hookup which is nice."
  • Be aware of road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow or winding roads. A visitor at Fort Yargo State Park Campground noted, "The roads were windy, but they were doable."

Camping near Cumming, Georgia, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for family fun or a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Cumming, GA?

The Cumming area boasts several excellent campgrounds. Stone Mountain Park Campground offers a renowned camping experience with its impressive granite mountain, scenic trails, and regular laser shows and fireworks. The park features both developed sites and natural areas to explore. For those seeking a more serene forest setting, Doll Mountain Campground on Carter's Lake provides beautiful peninsula camping, though be prepared for steep hills and switchbacks on entry. Most campgrounds in the region offer water and toilet facilities, with many requiring reservations during peak season.

What RV parks are available in the Cumming area?

Wesley Oaks RV Park is an excellent option for longer stays in Cumming, located less than a mile from GA 400 at Exit 13. It offers a quiet atmosphere without resort amenities like pools or clubhouses, focusing instead on peaceful surroundings with convenient access to downtown Cumming and Lake Lanier. Twin Lakes RV Park is another option in the Cumming area that provides full hookups and is big-rig friendly. Most RV parks in the region are accessible year-round and offer water connections, with some requiring advance reservations, especially during summer months.

Are there any lakeside camping options near Cumming, GA?

Cumming offers excellent lakeside camping with Don Carter State Park Campground at the north end of Lake Lanier providing spacious sites about 35 yards from the shore. Sites offer plenty of privacy with large distances between them. Another great option is Bolding Mill, which features waterfront sites on Lake Lanier with beautiful views. Other nearby lakeside options include Bald Ridge Creek, Shady Grove Campground, and Sawnee, all offering water access and basic amenities. Most lakeside campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during summer months.