RV camping options near Dalton, Georgia include both national forest sites and private campgrounds within 30 minutes of the city. Located in northwest Georgia at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the elevation ranges from 700 to 1,000 feet, creating variable terrain for camping setups. Autumn temperatures average 60-70°F during daytime with cooler evenings, making it popular for fall camping trips.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: At Chilhowee Recreation Area, campers can access the Benton Falls trail approximately 3 miles round trip. "We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking," notes Tracy J. The trail system connects directly to campsites for convenient access.
Whitewater rafting: Located 25 miles from Dalton, the Ocoee River offers class III-IV rapids accessible from nearby campgrounds. "Close to the Ocoee River, the Ocoee Whitewater Center, Parksville Lake beaches and boat ramps, many miles of mountain bike/hiking trails and whitewater rafting, it's a great central location for day trips," reports one camper about Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature fishing areas with no license required for children under 12. "There's a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc. There are gorgeous, peaceful walking trails that are decorated really well!" states Heather L. about Diamond Lure Campground.
What campers like
Spacious concrete pads: Many campers appreciate level sites at several RV parks. "The sites are level and concrete with a nice fire pit," notes Justin about Whitewater RV Park, adding they "spent the day hiking the mountain next to rv park. Then went kayaking down the river across the street."
Proximity to attractions: The location between Chattanooga and Atlanta provides access to multiple outdoor destinations. "Battlefield Campground is an extremely convenient RV park located right of I-75 about 20 minutes south of Chattanooga. It is very easy to get to," explains Stephanie J. about Battlefield Campground & RV Park.
Pet-friendly facilities: Most campgrounds welcome pets with designated areas. "Super friendly customer service. There are a lot of amenities here such as pool, pickleball, propane, laundry, and curbside trash pickup," notes one reviewer about RV sites near Dalton, Georgia. Another camper mentions, "They have things for dogs! (Dog bath, dog beach, dog park, ect)."
What you should know
Variable water pressure: Some sites report inconsistent pressure at hookups. "From talking to other campers in this area, some had lower water pressure and took their regulators off," according to MickandKarla W. at Talona Ridge RV Resort.
Campground road conditions: Access roads at some locations need maintenance. "The campground roads are paved but in need of maintenance; the road is eroded in a lot of places," reports one camper about mountain campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds now require advance booking, especially during fall. "We booked 3 weeks before arrival," notes one camper, while another states, "If interested in this area, I would try to lock in a spot as early as you can."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. "There is a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc. I went during Memorial Day weekend so every campsite was being used," reports a camper at Diamond Lure Campground.
Playground access: Identify campgrounds with play areas before booking. "This is an excellent place for long-term campers, and it includes a nice playground, a pool, and a camp store/clubhouse," notes one camper about facilities available at Battlefield Campground.
Weekend planning: Anticipate higher occupancy and plan accordingly. "Sites include 50 and 30 amp full service, and seven tent sites in the middle of the campground that also include electric. There are seven camping cabins spaced throughout the campground," explains a camper about available options for families requiring different accommodation types.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Some RV parks have varying site quality within the same facility. "We were on the middle level, which had a mixture of pull-throughs and back-ins. The lower level is also a mixture of pull-throughs and back-ins plus a nice-sized dog park," reports MickandKarla W. about Hawkins Pointe RV Park.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional blocking for leveling. "Sites are unlevel and tight," reports one camper, while another notes, "The sites are very close to each other, and most of them were full when we stayed."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations for non-guests. Several RV parks provide full hookup sites including sewer, which eliminates the need for dump stations during your stay. "Close to everything. Racing just down the street. There are no amenities but they do have a fenced dog park," notes one RVer.
