C
Carol B.
Scout
Scout1776 RV And Campground
Excellent campground!!!
Beautiful surroundings and very quiet. Fast and easy response from owners.Clean and well maintained .I definitely recommend to everyone!!!
Best Campgrounds near Dalton, GA
Camping opportunities in the Dalton area include several developed campgrounds and backcountry options throughout the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The Pocket Campground, located in a low area surrounded by steep ridges of Horn and Mill Mountains, offers rustic tent and small RV camping with creek access. Fort Mountain State Park, approximately 20 miles east of Dalton, provides a range of accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and platform camping. Cloudland Canyon State Park and several other mixed-use campgrounds in the region support both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities.
The camping season in northwest Georgia generally runs year-round, though some facilities like Salacoa Creek Park operate only from April to November. Road access varies across the region, with some forest service roads requiring caution for low-clearance vehicles. "Be prepared for a slightly rough road on your way in sometimes that involves minor water crossings. I've done it before in a Ford Fiesta, but low riding cars should be cautious," noted one camper about The Pocket area. Several campgrounds like Fort Mountain require advance reservations, especially during peak season. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many areas, particularly in the more remote pockets of the national forest, making advance planning essential. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage and awareness.
Many campers highlight the natural springs and creeks as standout features at The Pocket Campground. Water access appears as a consistent theme in visitor reviews, with several sites featuring direct creek access that's popular with families. Hikers appreciate the trail systems connected to many camping areas, particularly at Fort Mountain State Park where both easy and challenging trails offer mountain views and waterfall access. Campers seeking more solitude gravitate toward the dispersed camping options in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. One reviewer described finding "the perfect spot at the end of the road" on Gentry Gap near The Pocket recreation area, mentioning "4 or 5 spots that are perfect for dispersed tent camping, and a small stream across the road for added ambiance." Sites with hookups for RVs are available at several state parks and private campgrounds throughout the region, including options in Calhoun and Chatsworth.
Best Camping Sites Near Dalton, Georgia (412)
1. Fort Mountain State Park Campground
60 ReviewsChatsworth, GA15 milesWebsite+1 (706) 422-1932$14 - $55 / night
"Its usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia’s summer heat much more enjoyable. Good hiking and things to do nearby."
"We walked other camp grounds in the park and most of those sites were equally spacious and mostly level."
2. Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground
188 ReviewsTrenton, GA31 milesWebsite+1 (706) 657-4050$10 - $270 / night
"Campground Review:East Rim Campground Pro’s: 1-Handicap Accessible, there is a cabin which is also HDA. 2- If your visiting for a get together your right next to the day use area and there is a picnic"
"Cloudland Canyon State Park is worth the drive. Located between I75 and I59 in Georgia, outside Trenton and below Chattanooga, Tn. The scenery on the way in is breathtaking and varied."
3. Pocket Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
13 ReviewsVillanow, GA14 miles+1 (706) 695-6736$15 / night
"The campsites are first come first serve but all are near a natural spring. The camping area is a short distance from a modest lake and a stocked trout stream."
"The Pocket Wilderness is one of the best kept secrets in North Georgia. there are hikes for all skill levels including a wonderful Boardwalk leading to a waterfall that hovers over some of the most biodiverse"
4. Doll Mountain Campground
22 ReviewsTalking Rock, GA21 milesWebsite+1 (706) 276-4413$26 - $100 / night
"Doll Mountain Campground near Ellijay, Georgia is located on a peninsula stretching into Carter's Lake, and managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. "
"The sites are tucked into the trees, lots of great spots for your hammock! We stayed at a walk-in site, but were still close to a pit toilet and our car."
5. 411 River Rest Campground
10 ReviewsCarters Lake, GA16 milesWebsite+1 (706) 972-2681$30 - $60 / night
"It was hard to find a place that allowed 1 night that still had reservations but based on positive feedback on the Georgia RV FB group I found this place."
"Very close to the highway, but quite and well maintained."
6. Cedar Break RV Park
13 ReviewsCalhoun, GA17 miles+1 (706) 629-7511$45 - $55 / night
"Our campsite was okay, with a bit of a slope where the our steps came down. The pull throughs are basically their overnighter sites with no picnic table nor fire pit."
"Minor sound from adjacent road, other than that very quiet, clean, nice layout with trees, good site spacing, I’ll be back."
7. Holiday Travel Park
19 ReviewsFort Oglethorpe, GA21 milesWebsite+1 (706) 891-9766$36 - $105 / night
"There were pros and cons, so I’ll start with the cons- the campground is surrounded by what looked to be a mobile home community."
"The gravel site was very level and the utilities were positioned well. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The location is easy to get to from I75/24."
8. Harrison Bay State Park Campground
58 ReviewsHarrison, TN30 milesWebsite+1 (423) 344-6214$22 - $28 / night
"Situated again the bay, the majority of the park is surrounded by water, and as such many campsites have views of the lake."
"This is a great family campground and Tennessee State Park located on Chickamauga Lake of the Tennessee River. Good playground for the Grandkids and bicycle paths."
9. Woodring Campground
14 ReviewsTalking Rock, GA20 milesWebsite+1 (706) 276-6050$20 - $42 / night
"Easy access sites but some are close together with lots of trees on beautiful Carters Lake in the north Georgia mountains."
"Site 29 is on the peninsula, near the end. It is caddy corner from the beach swimming area and very close walking distance. You cannot see the site from the beach area or vice versa."
10. Salacoa Creek Park
10 ReviewsCalhoun, GA19 milesWebsite+1 (706) 629-3490"The campground entrance is 10 miles on the right off the Redbud Rd exit. Only con is not a lot of shade in the campsites."
"The campground is situated on a hill with the campsites tiered one above(or below) the next. Not much in shade or privacy but well kept and clean."
Recent Camping Photos near Dalton, GA
603 Photos of 412 Dalton Campgrounds
Meaghan G.
Fort Mountain State Park Backcountry Campsites
Charlie S.
Pocket Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
carolyn
Fort Mountain State Park Campground
Cindy A.
John's Mountain WMA
Shannon C.
411 River Rest Campground
Stephanie J.
Battlefield Campground & RV Park
Timmie
Cedar Break RV Park
Gabrielle D.
Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area
Bob P.
Hickey Gap (Cohutta WMA)
Zane M.
Hickey Gap
michelle J.
Lake Conasauga
Patrick R.
Hidden Creek Campground
Recent Reviews near Dalton, GA
1578 Reviews of 412 Dalton Campgrounds
Kelsey P.
TravelerHarrison Bay State Park Campground
Beautiful but sites are VERY uneven
I was greatly deceived by the photos and descriptions online. We had site 40 and it was much much shorter than online said and the incline was insane. I would say 90% of the sites in loops B, C, and D should not be sites. Loop A has the most level sites with a lot not having shade though. Site 15 seemed to be the best in the whole park. Leveling our popup was miserable. Most campers we saw come in seemed to be the same as us. First time being there and not realizing the sites are significantly shorter than listed and shown in photos and extremely unlevel. I couldn’t even imagine a tent camper in most sites comfortably with how much of an incline and then slope you’re on. It’s a straight up hill and then it’s tilted to the side too. Sites are also extremely close together which is fine if you plan to be out or on the water a lot but it’s very cramped.
Bathrooms in loop B were the largest and cleaned daily. Bathrooms were great with the exception of the doors being super small but not an issue really. I’m 6ft and it was just funny seeing over everything.
Lake is BEAUTIFUL. So many areas to swim and great trails. Good place for pets.
One host in the entire park and we were lucky to be next to them and listen to their dog park and cry all day and night as they never let him in. Their site is right there when you go in and just trashed with all kinds of stuff. Feels more like a trailer park than state park. Never once saw the hosts and the camp store/office was closed every day we were there (we were there for a week Sunday to Sunday) Our site had quite a bit of trash when we got there. I’m shocked how the bathrooms were kept so clean but sites were not
They have check in listed at 4pm but every day new campers were there far before 4 which isn’t a problem but helps to know you can really get there anytime.
Overall the area is amazing with so much to do for everyone. Fishing, hiking, swimming, plenty to do all around. I would come back only for loop A and site 15. Maybe some others in loop A. Unless you have a camper van that you are fine being tilted, I would avoid all loops besides A. We saw a lot of people get there and then leave when they couldn’t park or level their site and there weren’t other options any better for them
Cell service was great. T-Mobile hotspot was amazing for me to work remote
Greg S.
LegendFort Mountain State Park Campground
4.7 stars
Spectacular scenery. The campground has two loops, both with nicely spaced out sites. We liked the creekside loop, but lakeside looked very nice as well. The lake is small but cold and clear, probably spring fed. The playground is average and they have a mini golf course that's cool. The camp store is excellent, though a drive from the campground. Also a short drive (or 3 mile hike) away is the star of the show- the overlook, tower and rock wall. Unbelievable views and great rocks to scramble and play on. The history of the mysterious rock Wall is intriguing. A great place to spend a few hours. The trails are numerous and well marked. We didn't see any bears or snakes. Overall a great place.
- Greg S.Legend
James H 'Sloppy' Floyd State Park Campground
4.5 stars
Well kept, quiet, forested campground in the foothills of NW GA. It's a small campground and a small state park relative to many, but the two small lakes are pretty and the trails are pleasant. The marble mine is definitely a cool spot and worth the 2 mile round trip. The first 12 sites are a bit closer together and less private, but the remaining sites are bigger and very nice. We enjoyed our spot by the playground. Huge site. Great if you have kids. Site 18 also looked great with a lot of grass and near the bathrooms. Cool little camp store. We enjoyed the peddle boat rental as well. Summerville is 7 minutes away if you need anything.
- FFrank J.Scout
Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp
Good free rest stop
Nothing crazy, scenic but tricky drive in here. Use the coordinates to find it, Apple Maps will send you to the other side and add a 30/40 min drive. The camping area had 1 shared restroom/porta potty type deal. The area is pretty flat ground with about 10 good spots to tent/small vehicle camp. Came on a Tuesday evening to about half the site being used. There’s signs to get here once you get close.
- SSterling G.
GuideLittle Farmie Farm Dispersed
Private little area
Small gravel parking area off of what appears to be a drive. Nice open field to possibly setup in. Didn’t drive truck on grass. It was cut and well maintained. Large burn pile and old rv on site. Good place to over night. I visited during the day and was not disturbed.
- SSterling G.Guide
Tennessee Wall Camp
Nice little site for tent camping
You take a sometimes single lane road to get there. Very windy at points. There is a parking lot to hold 4+ cars. You walk 20’ on trail to first campsite. Nice wooded area with a trail to the water. There are 5 sites with fire pits. There is one private site past the marked site if you keep going you will find a large level gravel lot with a single fire pit that would be much better for van or truck camping. Past this point it turns back into residential.
- SSterling G.Guide
Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp
Nice wooded spot
Campground is primitive with a clean vault toilet. There are approx 12 campsites with fire pits. Across the main gravel road is a large spot for off-roading / side by side parking. Main gravel road to campground is smooth no ruts. Campground should accommodate 24’ class b or so. My 18’ truck had lots of room and space for awning.
Leah S.TravelerJones Creek Dispersed Campground
Creekside for larger groups
Multiple creekside spots for large groups. We have over 12 adults and 8-9 cars. No cell service. Dog friendly.
Guide to Dalton
Dispersed camping options near Dalton, Georgia include several primitive sites along forest service roads in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. At an elevation between 700-1,300 feet, the area experiences mild temperatures most of the year with humid summers and occasional winter freezes. Cell service becomes increasingly limited as you venture deeper into the forest, with many campers reporting no signal in areas like Gentry Gap.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Doll Mountain Campground offers shoreline access for anglers at several waterfront sites. "Each site, depending on where you end up has a balconied picnic/deck area. If your bike riding you will get your exercise. The main attraction would be the lake. There are rentals and a swimming area, and EVERYBODY was fishing," notes one visitor.
Swimming areas: Salacoa Creek Park includes designated swimming spots for summer recreation. A camper describes, "There's a playground in the campground and a beach with another playground in the near by day use area. In the middle of the campground there is a 1.4 mile nature trail that was a little overgrown but still walkable."
Mountain biking trails: The Pinhotti Trail system connects with several camping areas and offers technical rides for experienced cyclists. One review mentions, "We were looking for somewhere near the Pocket to camp out for a night after a nice mountain bike ride on the Pinhotti Trail."
What campers like
Private lakefront sites: Woodring Campground provides direct water access at select campsites. "Site was right on the water, just had to climb down a fairly steep hill. There is a swim beach but it's closed currently due to covid. The lake is clear and scenery is awesome. If you have a boat, there is a boat dock and several of the sites you can tie your boat up right next to them," explains one camper.
Hiking diversity: Fort Mountain State Park features trails for various skill levels. "The trails are great, and everything feels spread out. The views here? Amazing," writes one reviewer. Another notes, "Get a trail map!! These are awesome trails and varied trails with lots of elevation. The Gahuti is the most known hiking trail here and we never saw another hiker on the trail."
Natural springs: Several campsites offer access to cold, clear springs perfect for summer cooling. "The Pocket recreation area in northwest Georgia is named for lying in a low area surrounded by the steep ridges of Horn and Mill Mountains, and is the former site of Civilian Conservation Corp Camp F-16. Families camping here can enjoy the vibrant spring colors of mountain laurel."
What you should know
RV size limitations: Many forest service roads have tight turns and limited pull-through options. At 411 River Rest Campground, "Sites are big and spread out OK. There are showers on site and a nice playground, and coming soon a real office and 20 more sites. Several full hook up, pull through, river front, etc."
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. "This was our last chance since the camp closes on Nov. 9 this year. The sites along the creek are nice but the rest is well laid out with fire rings, lantern poles and tables."
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. "Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here. Needless to say, I did it! I slept outside of a tent!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cloudland Canyon State Park offers family-friendly activities beyond hiking. "There is a dog park located at the campground entrance so the four legged kids can run freely, and a playground next to the dog park, however it is in full sun so will be hot during the summer months."
Beginner-friendly trails: Look for shorter interpretive trails suitable for young hikers. "The most stroller/limited mobility friendly trails are the lake trail and the Cool Springs overlook." Another reviewer notes that "Wonderful hiking trails with many mountain views. Campgrounds are very family friendly and clean. The little lake is a nice adventure too!"
Water play areas: Creeks and lake edges provide natural entertainment for children. "Bring your water shoes, bug spray, towel and change of clothes cause the creek is irresistible! Natural Spring, Stone work and a trail to enjoy while you visit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Reserve early for the most level and spacious sites at popular campgrounds. "First time here, and this is a great campground. Bathhouses are clean and well maintained." A different reviewer adds, "First and foremost, if you have a rig over 30' book only sites between #12 and #16 by the bathhouse. All the others are too small or hard to back a bigger rig into."
Hook-up availability: Full service sites are limited at state parks but more common at private campgrounds. "30 and 50 amp service with water. No sewers but has a easy access dump station before the camp sites."
Internet connectivity: Cell reception varies significantly across camping sites near Dalton. "We had inconsistent cell coverage even with a Winegard booster with AT&T and Verizon. Mornings were best reception and evening were not so good."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Dalton, GA?
What are the best campgrounds in Dalton, GA?
Fort Mountain State Park Campground is a top choice near Dalton, offering cooler temperatures due to elevation and private wooded campsites perfect for escaping Georgia's summer heat. The park features spacious, mostly level sites with good hiking opportunities nearby. Another excellent option is Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, which offers breathtaking scenery, handicap-accessible facilities including a cabin, and is conveniently located between I-75 and I-59. The East Rim Campground area is particularly convenient for group gatherings as it's adjacent to the day-use area with picnic facilities.
Are there any good fishing spots at campgrounds near Dalton, Georgia?
Are there any good fishing spots at campgrounds near Dalton, Georgia?
Pocket Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest offers excellent fishing opportunities with a modest lake and a stocked trout stream just a short distance from the camping area. This free, first-come-first-served campground features extremely clean and quiet sites near a natural spring. Doll Mountain Campground is another great fishing destination located on a peninsula stretching into Carter's Lake. Managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, this campground provides direct lake access, though be prepared for steep hills and switchbacks when entering the property.
How much does camping cost at Dalton, GA campgrounds?
How much does camping cost at Dalton, GA campgrounds?
Camping costs vary around Dalton. Battlefield Campground & RV Park in nearby Ringgold offers affordable options with convenient access just off the highway exit behind Georgia Winery. Morganton Point Campground near Blue Ridge provides reasonably priced sites with picturesque lake views. For budget-conscious campers, Pocket Campground in the Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest is completely free with first-come-first-served sites. State parks like Fort Mountain typically charge $30-45 per night for developed sites with hookups, while more basic tent sites run $25-35. Many campgrounds offer discounts for longer stays or during off-peak seasons.
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