Tent camping opportunities near Elberton, Georgia extend beyond the popular lakeside areas to include seasonal hunt camps and marina locations. This eastern Georgia region sits at elevations between 400-600 feet in the Piedmont plateau, creating varied terrain for campers. Most primitive camping options remain open year-round, though seasonal hunt camps like Fell Hunt Camp operate only from September through early January.
What to do
Fishing from shorelines: At Raysville Marina, campers access multiple fishing spots along Clarks Hill Lake. "Absolutely love this place. However hard to get a spot because so many people pay monthly and leave there campers. Staff is wonderful. No bathhouse," notes Jerry F.
Hiking nearby trails: The camping field at Denver Downs Farm connects to walking paths across the 140-acre property. A visitor mentioned, "Very well maintained. We came here on Thanksgiving weekend because all other campgrounds were full. We were the only people here."
Water activities: Swimming and boating access make Soap Creek Marina popular during summer months. "There's a small restaurant located onsite along with a small store. Nice walking trails which makes this a great getaway spot," reports one camper who visited the area.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers at Fell Hunt Camp appreciate the clean toilet facilities and drinking water access. Brittany S. commented, "The water in the spouts is well water and delicious. Would be a great spot for some group camping!"
Privacy between sites: The layout at many Elberton-area campgrounds provides good separation between camping spots. Adam V. noted about Denver Downs Farm, "There are no defined campsites we could see. Just a giant field to set up and camp. There is no water or any hookups. You will need to pack in and pack out everything."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers find Leroys Ferry Campground particularly appealing. "Great place for the whole family for fishing and camping," says Stevie W., highlighting the value for families seeking economical outdoor recreation.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas require self-sufficiency. Raysville Marina visitor Jada G. shares, "Customer service when open in the off season! Friendly, accommodating, very responsive," indicating that service availability varies seasonally.
Water access conditions: Sites near water may have unimproved paths to shorelines. Daniel D. explains about Leroys Ferry Campground, "Most of the campsites have access via trails to the lake. It's clean with easy access and most sites are very easy to navigate. The pit toilets were kept very clean."
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis with drop boxes for payment. Some sites like Sunset Campground require calling ahead, though one camper reported communication challenges: "Very rude and unhelpful said he would call me back to let me know if there was any openings. He never called back."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Fell Hunt Camp offers multiple sites arranged in a circle. "20+ campsites in a circle for tent campers and some additional ones on the side for equestrian campers and their horses," reports Brittany S., making it conducive for family gatherings.
Seasonal activities: Denver Downs Farm offers additional activities during harvest season. "The event area, when open could be busy and noisy during the day, but is was very quiet and peaceful," notes Adam V., suggesting families time visits accordingly.
Swimming accessibility: For families with children, consider water safety at lakeside camping areas. A Soap Creek Marina visitor mentioned "Pull-up RV or tent spots with fire pits and picnic tables," noting the convenience for families needing to monitor children near water.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. One Leroys Ferry visitor notes, "You can fit an RV on most sites, although they aren't all completely level."
Limited hookups: Most camping areas near Elberton provide minimal services for RVs. Campers must plan accordingly for water, waste, and power needs.
Highway proximity: Sites like Denver Downs Farm offer advantages for larger vehicles. "Very close to I-85 and easy to get to. Feels very safe. A little highway noise, but not bad," advises Adam V., highlighting the accessible location for RVs traveling through the area.