11 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Richard B. Russell State Park offers lakeside cabin rentals with water and electric hookups near Elberton, Georgia. The cabins include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilet facilities. Visitors can choose from waterfront or wooded settings, with most cabins providing basic furnishings and kitchen amenities. The park maintains laundry facilities for extended stays. Tugaloo State Park provides similar cabin accommodations with the addition of air conditioning and heating systems for year-round comfort. A recent review noted that "cabins 1-10 have less stairs if that is important to you," making them more accessible for visitors with mobility concerns.
Rustic log cabins and more modern furnished units are available throughout the region's state parks. Watson Mill Bridge State Park features cabins with electricity and water hookups in a wooded setting near the historic covered bridge. Lake Hartwell State Park Campground offers pet-friendly cabin options with varying levels of amenities. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months when lakeside cabins book quickly. According to a visitor, the camper cabins at Lake Hartwell are "spartan to be sure...dry, solid and has a door," providing basic shelter for those who prefer not to tent camp.
Most cabins require guests to bring their own linens, pillows, and cooking supplies. Basic kitchenettes typically include refrigerators and microwaves, while some offer full stoves. Hartwell Lakeside KOA Holiday provides more fully equipped cabin rentals with additional amenities like firewood and market access. Victoria Bryant State Park cabins include water and electric hookups with picnic tables and fire rings for outdoor cooking. Dollar General stores are located within driving distance of most cabin locations for forgotten supplies, with one review mentioning a store "about 12 miles away for supplies."
"Very nice quiet park with a small campground (21 sites, all with electric and water). The sites are shaded, and flat with a gravel drive and tent pad."
"There is a picnic table and a fire pit with a built in grill, but we cooked on our Coleman stove and charcoal grill mostly. The drive down is washed out a bit but a 2 wheel drive Tahoe handled it."
Available this weekend
from $17 - $85 / night
"It was super hot when we went, but the park is full of a lot to offer. The beach is nice and was never crowded. We hiked and biked the trails. They are well maintained."
"Bath house was clean but a decent uphill walk away from most sites as there is only one. Plenty of boat ramps, beach, golf course."
Available this weekend
from $34 - $185 / night
"Tugaloo state Park: This Georgia State Park offers a multitude of activities from hiking, paddling, boating, fishing, swimming, putt putt, tennis/pickleball court and biking the park roads to name a few"
"We were lakeside on a pull through that was a bit short for us. The site was amazing we could kayak up to our site. Pet friendly, family friendly. Power, Electric, gray water dumps near each site."
Available this weekend
from $27 - $230 / night
"The park offers bicycle rentals, a swimming pool, plenty of picnic areas, multiple spots to play in the creek and some great hiking trails!"
"28 for platform tent location. Close to showers and everything you need. Water pump, electric, overhead light, picnic bench, and fire ring. Great value!"
Available this weekend
from $30 - $150 / night
"Lake access at every campsite. Breeze from the lake all day. Plenty of trees to choose from for the perfect hammock spot. I had a great sunrise and sunset view with shade during the day."
"This is a beautifully maintained State Park/KOA. The site we had was right next to the bank of the lake....we could have fished from inside our tent. It was nice and quiet."
"Happening upon Lake Hartwell State Park, was a find! We were traveling light, heading to the Hendersonville, NC area for bagging waterfalls and cascades and some ridge hikes."
"Lake Hartwell State Park was a welcome relief after staying at an overcrowded RV resort. There was more privacy and definitely more shade."
Available this weekend
"Set up well for families with children… room to ride bikes, scooters, skateboards; playground; putt putt course; trails to walk; beach areas all around the camp ground for easy access to the water."
"Beautiful colors for the fall, waterfront campsites, water and electric hook ups and back-in AND pull-through spots available."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $250 / night
"The main feature is the lake. Fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming. Stayed at site #12. Waterfront excellent view of lake but sunny site."
"Surrounded by water. Camping and boating paradise. Immaculate grounds and facilities. Water and electric and gray water dumps at each site. Washer and dryer."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $175 / night
"There was trash in our fire ring and the picnic table at our site should probably be put out of its misery."
"The only thing that sucked is that we had a very tight spot and did not have much is any room for a porch. The ground is not very level at all although some sites have a wood deck, ours didn't."
"Boat rentals are available as well as paddle boards and kayaks."
"My family and I enjoyed camping on the beach here by the lake. The campground had a lot to offer. There was a restaurant/bar , playground, Marina, stage with live bands."
from $25 - $50 / night
GuideSites are not level. Thousand trails is currently not investing. Any money in improving the sites. Half of the sites in the park are going back to nature. The roads are falling apart and the inclines are not big rig friendly.
LegendHickory Knob SP CG is tucked along the shores of Lake Thurmond in South Carolina’s rolling countryside, where the pine trees stand tall, the crickets sing backup, and life slows to a more reasonable pace. It’s the only South Carolina SP with a full resort feel – which means campers get the perks of a golf course, lodge, and restaurant nearby, without losing that back-to-nature atmosphere that makes pitching a tent or leveling out an RV worth the trouble. First impressions? Think peaceful lake views with just enough activity around to keep things lively but never hectic.
The campground itself offers a mix of RV and tent sites, with electric and water hookups for the comfort crowd and wooded, shaded spaces for the purists. Campsites are fairly roomy, with picnic tables, fire rings, and enough tree cover to keep your morning coffee shaded until you’re good and ready to face the day. Bathhouses are clean and well-kept ... nothing spa-like, but not the kind where you walk out wondering if you need a tetanus shot either. Navigation is straightforward, though larger rigs should take it slow on the curves. And here’s a bonus: campers can stroll over to the resort-style amenities like a swimming pool, tennis courts and even the on-site restaurant if they’re tired of hot dogs and s’mores.
The surrounding fun is where Hickory Knob shines. Lake Thurmond offers ample space for boating, fishing, kayaking and swimming, with more shoreline than your GPS can keep track of. The park itself has miles of hiking and biking trails that snake through pine forest and offer glimpses of deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional heron. For the golfers in the crowd, the 18-hole course is the centerpiece here – where else can you balance your day between kayaking coves in the morning and working on your short game in the afternoon? The nearby town of McCormick provides groceries, a few dining options and that small-town charm that feels refreshingly unhurried.
Insider Tips: (1) The waterfront campsites are the gems with west-facing spots for those Technicolor sunsets (but you'll want to book early if you can, because everyone has the same idea, right?); (2) Don’t feel like cooking? Head on over to the Hickory Knob Lodge restaurant, which while nothing fancy, this joint has solid Southern comfort food that tastes even better after a day outdoors; (3) Kayakers should launch near the group lodge cove where it’s calmer water with prime birdwatching opportunities; (4) If you like a side of nostalgia with your dessert, swing by Michelle’s in McCormick for classic Southern diner plates and pie that’ll make you rethink diets; (5) Want a 'higher' perspective? Sites further inland sit at slightly higher elevation, meaning more shade, although fewer lake views, but less wind off the water, so choose based on your style of camping comfort.
Happy Camping!
ScoutGetting to the gravel site bent my trailer license and hitch.
RangerWe stayed at Site #45, and it quickly became one of our favorite campsites because it felt more like a wooded overlook, perched above the lake. The breeze coming off the water kept us comfortable enough to enjoy a campfire even on a hot August evening.
The site fit our 14x10 tent comfortably, but I wouldn’t recommend anything larger. There isn’t a true tent pad, and you’ll notice the slope while sleeping—but the view from inside the tent was priceless. We experienced a four-hour thunderstorm and didn’t have any standing water at our site afterward.
⚠️ The slope becomes much steeper near the shoreline, so I wouldn’t recommend this site for toddlers or anyone with mobility concerns.
🛝 Our 7-year-old loved fishing from the shoreline and thought the steep slope made the perfect slide to get back down to the water. Built-in slide + dirty shorts = happy camper. 😂
🔥 The site includes a clean fire ring with an adjustable cooking grate and a separate standing charcoal grill.
🦟 We didn’t have any issues with mosquitoes during our stay.
🚰 The shared water pump wasn’t working during our visit.
🚽 The bathhouse was spacious, clean, and only a short walk away.
🚗 A community wagon is parked near the bathhouse for campers to use when hauling gear between their vehicle and campsite. Loved that!
A few tips:
🪵 The Visitor Center sells $6 bundles of firewood and has a nice selection of souvenirs.
🐜 Plenty of flies and large ants, so keep your food put away and your tent zipped.
🪲 Cicadas were loud at night. I loved it, but our 7-year-old slept with his wireless headphones on. If you’re a light sleeper, you may want to pack earplugs if you’re camping here June-August.
🎣 We caught more bluegill fishing from our campsite than we did from the fishing dock.
🌅 If you’re looking for one of the best views in the campground and don’t mind sleeping on a slight incline, Site #45 is well worth considering.
TravelerStayed here a few times at different sites and always love it! I tent camp, so can't speak to the cabins or RV sites. Never too busy when I've gone in May and August. Tent sites are right on the water, so it's easy to move between swimming and your site. Other campers have been friendly. Water spigots near the campsites that usually run clear, I've drank from them with no issue. If you're keen on an air mattress, you can usually find an empty RV site to plug in your pump and then just carry the inflated mattress to your site. No drive ups, though sites like T10-13 are pretty darn close to the parking. T1-2 are a bit further from their closest parking, but still not bad. 1/2 are a bit set off from the rest with a fairly steep drop off that overlooks the beach, so be careful! Small trail leads you down to the water. 9 and 10-13 are close together, with 9 a bit set apart. Can't speak to the other sites personally. Boats don't come too close to the swimming sections by the campsites which is nice. Good mix of sun and shade. Got absolutely poured on (even inside my tent) one trip and still had a great time, easy place to have fun. Nearest grocery store is pretty far, so make one trip for supplies on the way up and enjoy camping the rest of the time.
GuideBeautiful park with lake views. Some of the roads through the campground were bumpy. Views were worth it though. Most spots in the area of my site were shady, even if a bit close. It was hot in June, so the shade was welcome. Bathhouse was newer and clean.
GuideI had a nice site overlooking the lake. Wonderful views, even if the lake levels were low. It was a little narrow to back into, but worth it. Facilities were nice and clean. Staff friendly and helpful. There was a burn ban in effect, so we used Solo stoves.
ScoutIt is a beautiful cozy campsite , where you can relax and the kids have plenty to do
TravelerClean and well maintained, staff is friendly and helpful. Some spaces are on grade so leveling can be a bit of a challenge.
The cabins near Elberton, Georgia sit at an elevation of approximately 650 feet in the upper Piedmont region of northeastern Georgia. The area experiences mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and humid summers that typically range from 80-95°F. Cabin options around Elberton vary from basic shelters to those with modern amenities, with many providing access to Lake Hartwell's 962 miles of shoreline.
Creek exploration: At Watson Mill Bridge State Park, visitors can enjoy water activities in Big Cloud Creek. "Wade in the river below the bridge but careful, the rocks are slick," notes Norris K. The creek features rocky shoals and small rapids perfect for summer cooling off.
Covered bridge photography: The 229-foot covered bridge at Watson Mill Bridge State Park stands as the longest original covered bridge in Georgia. "Park pass is $5 but the park is beautiful and a great way to spend the afternoon!" shares Kimberly S. The bridge makes for excellent photo opportunities year-round.
Fishing access: Tugaloo State Park offers prime fishing spots with lakefront access. "We were in site #8 right on the lake. Water, electric and cable tv connections," explains Kevin A. Most lakefront sites allow fishing directly from your campsite without needing to relocate.
Paddling opportunities: Victoria Bryant State Park provides creek access for kayaking. "Lots of trails and great creek swimming spots for the dogs. We are planning a trip back late summer so we can enjoy the water," writes Kim M. The park's water features remain less crowded than nearby Lake Hartwell.
Lakefront camping: Richard B Russell State Park offers sites with water views. "There isn't water access from the site but you can see the water from some sites," explains Sonyia W., who adds that "plenty of boat ramps, beach, golf course" are available at the park.
Clean facilities: Lake Hartwell State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and amenities. "Bath house was clean but a decent uphill walk away from most sites as there is only one," mentions Sonyia W. The park also includes coin laundry facilities at some bathhouses.
Wooded sites: Victoria Bryant State Park offers heavily shaded camping areas. "All the campsites we set up to look out into the woods not another camper. Very clean and well maintained," reports Courtney M. The wooded setting provides natural privacy between sites.
Quiet atmosphere: Elijah Clark State Park provides a peaceful environment. "Nice peaceful, layed back campground will return!!!" notes Jim R. The park maintains quiet hours from 10pm to 7am and has less boat traffic than some other Lake Hartwell locations.
Tent shelter options: Victoria Bryant State Park features unique tent platforms. "Tent sites have outlets, water and a light! Really beautiful easy hiking near by and a nice place to swim," explains Jessica D. These sheltered platforms provide protection during rain.
Limited cell service: Watson Mill Bridge State Park has spotty connectivity. "Phone service with ATT and Sprint/T-Mobile is non existent at the campsite. 200 yards uphill at bathhouse service is available," warns Nancy L. Download maps and information before arrival.
Weather considerations: Pioneer sites at Watson Mill Bridge flood during heavy rain. "If rain is in the forecast, probably would not want to stay," advises Nancy L. Check weather forecasts before booking these sites.
Supply access: Small grocery and supply options exist near most parks. "It was super hot when we went, but the park is full of a lot to offer. The beach is nice and was never crowded," mentions Jennifer K. about Richard B Russell State Park, which is approximately 15 minutes from Elberton's shopping areas.
Water play areas: Big Water Marina & RV Park offers child-friendly swimming. "This campground was fun. My family and I enjoyed camping on the beach here by the lake. The campground had a lot to offer. There was a restaurant/bar, playground, Marina, stage with live bands," shares Juraj & Christine O.
Playground access: Elijah Clark State Park includes play facilities. "From the main entrance is a winding wooded road to the main store. The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area," reports Bill C. The playground sits near the day-use area.
Nature opportunities: Watson Mill Bridge State Park offers educational hikes. "We LOVED the hike to the bridge, about 6/10 of a mile. You will pass the ruins of a old hydro power plant," Rebecca L. explains. These short trails work well for families with young children.
Beach swimming: Tugaloo State Park provides beach access from many campsites. "Lots of boats on the lake in summer but there is awesome beach access from the campsites. Great spot for summer!" notes Jessica D. The gradual entry beach areas work well for children.
Site leveling: Carolina Landing RV Resort requires careful site selection. "Our site- A5- was super unlevel. I felt unsafe with our fifth wheel's two left tires up in the air after auto-leveling," warns Becky P. Bring extra leveling blocks when staying at this resort.
Gray water disposal: Mistletoe State Park Campground provides convenient dump stations. "Over 70 sights with 30 amp, and water service, plenty of road side gray water dumps between sights and TWO dump stations," notes Chad H. This eliminates frequent trips to the central dump station.
Access considerations: Watson Mill Bridge State Park has some challenging approaches. "Make sure you are coming into park for the correct campground since campers cant go across bridge," advises Swain K. RVs over 10 feet tall cannot pass through the covered bridge.
Power availability: Tugaloo State Park offers good electrical service. "Power, Electric, gray water dumps near each site. Washer and dryer in each bathhouse," reports Celeste C. Most sites include 30-amp service with some 50-amp options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Elberton, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Elberton, GA is Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Elberton, GA?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 cabin camping locations near Elberton, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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