McIntosh Reserve Park in Whitesburg offers primitive camping on the Chattahoochee River, just 27 miles from Franklin, Georgia. Sites are first-come, first-served at $20 per night with one vehicle included and $5 for additional vehicles. The park features both wooded and open camping areas with several established trails connecting to the river where campers can fish or enjoy water views.
What to do
River activities: McIntosh Reserve Park provides direct Chattahoochee River access for fishing and kayaking. "There is a boat ramp past site 20. I saw a sign at the bathhouse for paddling the river and various parks to camp along the way," notes Sarah S. The riverside location lets you "fall asleep to" the sound of small rapids near sites 1-10.
Hiking and trail exploration: Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers a scenic lake loop trail. "Great hike around the lake and boatramp for trolling motors only," shares Wendy L. The area sits within Talladega National Forest with connections to the Pinhoti Trail that "extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," according to Amanda D.
Visit nearby attractions: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground provides access to regional points of interest. "Close to Calloway Gardens and little town of Pine Mountain," says Liz H. The park itself features "lots of hiking trails, pool, can rent canoes and paddle boats on the lake," perfect for day activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Little Tallapoosa Park offers well-spaced camping areas. "The tent sites are decent size and there is some wooded space between each one so it felt quiet and semi-private," reports Sarah F. The park separates tent and RV camping sections for different camping experiences.
Clean facilities: R. Shaefer Heard Campground maintains good bathroom facilities despite their age. "Check in was quick and easy. We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water. The nearby restroom was old but serviceable," says Dianna B.
Family-friendly amenities: McIntosh Reserve Park offers recreational facilities for all ages. "This place is a great place for family reunions or birthday parties. They even do Easter egg hunts every year," shares DeWayne H. The park includes "a splash pad and a new looking playground that from a glance, might be ADA accessible," according to Sarah S.
What you should know
Gate hours and access limitations: Some parks enforce strict entry times. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, "the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," warns Denis P., suggesting visitors plan accordingly for late arrivals or early departures.
Reservation systems vary: Each park handles reservations differently. McIntosh Reserve Park operates on a "first come first served basis, no reservations" policy as noted by Sarah S., while Franklin D Roosevelt State Park takes advance bookings.
Cell service limitations: Coleman Lake Recreation Area has "absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road," advises Evan S. This creates a true disconnect from technology that some campers appreciate but requires planning ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Little Tallapoosa Park offers water play features during summer months. "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," reports Andy M. The park combines water activities with trail exploration options.
Kid-friendly biking opportunities: Parks with paved loops provide safe cycling areas. "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching," shares Sarah F. about Little Tallapoosa Park, which features "paved loop and sites" with "nice grassy areas and swing set."
Holiday camping experiences: Coleman Lake Rec Area offers special seasonal activities. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive," shares Evan S., highlighting how the campground creates memorable experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: R. Shaefer Heard Campground requires careful site choice for bigger campers. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake...if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," advises Ward. Planning ahead and confirming site dimensions prevents setup challenges.
Horse camping options: Little Tallapoosa Park provides dedicated equestrian camping near Franklin, Georgia. "We stayed in the equine section. Total of 12 sites. Only 3 of us there. Nice and quiet," reports Shirley D. The park uses "the horse camp area as overflow" when the main RV section fills up, offering "plenty of space there with power and water," according to Hollis K.
Senior discounts: Several horse campgrounds near Franklin, Georgia offer reduced rates for seniors. Little Tallapoosa Park provides "full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered," notes Swain K., making it an economical choice for older campers.
