Tent camping near Cumming, Georgia provides access to diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 900-3,600 feet throughout the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest. The area averages 53 inches of rainfall annually, creating reliable water sources at most campsites during spring and fall seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping offers quieter sites with temperatures often dropping below freezing overnight.
What to do
Creek exploration: Raven Cliff Falls offers numerous camping spots along Dodd Creek. A visitor noted, "We camped here in June with a group of our close friends. It was a bit humid and warm, which is no surprise for a North Georgia summer, but still well worth the peace and relaxation. Our spot was about a quarter mile from the parking area which has public restrooms available, and we were right next to Dodd Creek."
Water activities: Laurel Park provides multiple access points to Lake Lanier for swimming and fishing. One camper mentioned, "It has a splash pad that's operating from late spring through summer. It has plenty of access to lake Lanier, and plenty of room for grilling out."
Overnight hiking: Two Wheels of Suchess serves as an excellent base camp despite its motorcycle focus. A visitor shared, "TWO has a great location at the convergence of many great roads. Dedicated to motorcyclists, TWO has tent sites, trees to hammock and small cabins for rent. The property is well planned and maintained."
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Tent sites at Hickory Flatts Cemetery remain available throughout all seasons. A caretaker explained, "There are no camp sites, its an open area about the size of a football field. There are bathrooms, with four toilets... no running water or electricity. There is a fire ring, but you need to bring in your own firewood."
Natural water sources: Many tent sites feature reliable creeks for both ambiance and practical use. At Raven Cliff Falls, a camper observed, "There is water and bathroom access. DO NOT CAMP ANYWHERE THAT ISNT AN ESTABLISHED CAMPGROUND, the ranger will come yell at you. Seriously. He will yell."
Designated bear protection: Several campgrounds offer bear boxes for food storage. A Springer Mountain visitor reported, "Bear box nearby, as well as latrines. Expect mice and other creatures if you stay at the shelter. Definitely a high traffic area."
What you should know
Limited vehicle access: Many tent sites require walking gear in from parking areas. At Springer Mountain Shelter, "The shelter is only 1 mile away from the nearest parking lot, or you can start at Amicalola and hike the 8 miles for the Approach Trail."
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: From primitive to maintained options. At Hickory Flatts Cemetery, "There are bathrooms, with four toilets... no running water or electricity."
Water availability fluctuates: Always check current conditions. At Raven Cliff Falls, a visitor advised, "If you want a walk-in campsite and it's the weekend, you better get there early. We arrived at dusk on a Friday and got the last walk-in site available."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible tent sites: Choose locations with minimal hiking required. At Buford Dam Park Shelters, "Parking is close to the street and paths go down to the lakeside. It is usually busy by people just driving thru but there are several places to pull in."
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. At Laurel Park, "It has a splash pad that's operating from late spring through summer. It has plenty of access to lake Lanier, and plenty of room for grilling out."
Pack all essentials: Services are limited near most sites. At Buford Dam, "The bathrooms were locked when we went so make sure you keep that in mind when coming here. There is not a convenience store for miles, the nearest is 20-30 mins drive away."
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas cannot accommodate larger RVs. At Hembree Park Campground, "It's not an RV park, they said there's is a little section of the park for rv but non hookups of any kind."
Limited hookups: Even where RVs are allowed, services are minimal. A visitor to Hembree Park noted, "We in joy the freedom and the neighbors are very friendly."
Designated parking areas: Some campgrounds have specific zones for vehicles. At Buford Dam, "Parking is off of the main road and there is not a lot of room for oversized vehicles."
