Best Campgrounds near Ellijay, GA

Ellijay, Georgia serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the North Georgia mountains, with options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites. Doll Mountain Campground, located on a peninsula stretching into Carter's Lake, provides both RV and tent camping with many sites featuring lake views. Fort Mountain State Park Campground, situated between Chatsworth and Ellijay, offers a higher-elevation camping experience with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. The region includes several Army Corps of Engineers facilities with boat-in access, while Three Forks Campground provides more primitive camping along creeks in the surrounding national forest lands.

Camping availability peaks from April through October, with many campgrounds closing during winter months. Doll Mountain operates from early April to late October, while Fort Mountain State Park remains open year-round. The mountain terrain creates significant temperature variations, with Fort Mountain's higher elevation providing cooler temperatures even during Georgia's summer heat. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly at Fort Mountain where visitors report very limited connectivity. Roads leading to campgrounds often feature steep grades and switchbacks, especially notable at Doll Mountain where the entrance road includes challenging hills. A camper noted, "Beware upon entering from the main road -- there are steep hills and switchbacks leading into and through the campground."

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Ellijay area, with sites overlooking Carter's Lake being particularly popular. While some lakefront sites allow direct water access, others are positioned on ridges or cliffs overlooking the water. Several visitors mentioned the privacy of wooded sites as a key benefit, with Fort Mountain's campsites described as "private wooded campsites" that make "tent camping in Georgia's summer heat much more enjoyable." Bear activity has been reported in multiple campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. The region's proximity to apple orchards and wineries provides additional attractions, with one reviewer mentioning "Ellijay Apple Barn isn't far from the campsite" as a recommended stop. Campgrounds closer to town offer convenience while more remote options provide greater seclusion and wilderness experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Ellijay, Georgia (491)

    1. Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    Chatsworth, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +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."

    "There's nice trails in the park one around the lake & one to a small waterfall across the street. There is no cell service."

    2. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    57 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 265-4703

    "It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."

    "If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."

    3. Doll Mountain Campground

    22 Reviews
    Talking Rock, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +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. "

    "We loved our time in Ellijay and this camping spot was amazing. It was right on the lake, surrounded by trees so you had a nice private area to yourself."

    4. Woodring Campground

    14 Reviews
    Talking Rock, GA
    11 miles
    Website
    +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."

    5. Doll Mountain

    11 Reviews
    Carters Lake, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 276-4413

    "Note, most sites will not offer beach style walk in access to the lake due to the park being higher in elevation with more cliff like edges down towards the lake surrounding it."

    "We had 3 couples who spent the long weekend for 4th of July (2016) on two sites in the walk-in tent camping area."

    6. Diamond Lure Campground

    7 Reviews
    Ellijay, GA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 273-3075

    $30 - $50 / night

    "We went during the Ellijay apple festival, so they were busy, but the campground was great! Great view of the lake and staff is so helpful and nice!"

    "Upon driving up, you see the office and the big lake behind it and it’s breathtaking. There’s a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc."

    7. Talona Ridge RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Ellijay, GA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 636-2267

    $95 - $130 / night

    "The top level also has the swimming pool and hot tub area next to the clubhouse, with the plan for this to be the adult pool area once they complete the second pool on the middle level."

    "We were the first official check in for the Brinkley rally arriving around noon."

    8. 411 River Rest Campground

    10 Reviews
    Carters Lake, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +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."

    9. Morganton Point Campground

    17 Reviews
    Morganton, GA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 374-1645

    $26 - $50 / night

    "We were right next to the camp host, which was pretty nice – we didn’t have to go far to ask for wood or ice!  Plus, there were trails leading right to the lake. "

    "Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table and the restrooms were close by."

    10. Three Forks Campground

    10 Reviews
    Suches, GA
    16 miles
    Website

    "All of the sites are situated along a creek, and a fair distance from each other (most sites you drive between) and off the road."

    "Campground Review:

    Let me begin by specifying that there are two different Three Forks areas in Northh Georgia. One is on the Appalachian Trail and One is near Clayton, Georgia."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 491 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ellijay, GA

1635 Reviews of 491 Ellijay Campgrounds



Guide to Ellijay

Camping near Ellijay, Georgia, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The park is beautiful with a nice modern campground. The sites are very nice. The bathroom and showers are very new and well-maintained."
  • Fishing: Head to Red Top Mountain State Park Campground for some great fishing spots. A camper shared, "The campground is quiet with well laid out sites. Everything was clean and well maintained."
  • Waterfalls: Don’t miss the breathtaking views at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "The campground is more small RV friendly due to narrow roads. The campground is mostly shaded but no privacy between most sites."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground noted, "The park is very clean and well maintained."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer good spacing for privacy. A happy camper at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites offer good privacy with clean facilities."
  • Scenic Views: The beautiful landscapes are a big draw. One reviewer at Fort Mountain State Park Campground said, "The surroundings were so beautiful, we really enjoyed just being in the campground."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground warned, "The sites are very close together here and you can expect it to usually be booked up."
  • Confusing Check-In: At Red Top Mountain State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "Be careful about arriving on time. There is a gate with a code, if you don’t arrive when the camp office is open, you’ll be stuck outside."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground noted, "The showers/restrooms are small and dated."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Vogel State Park Campground that offer activities for kids. One family said, "The kids had loads of fun playing by the little rivers."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A visitor at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping mentioned, "Plenty of hiking and 4 mins from the lodge."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A camper at Harrison Bay State Park Campground suggested, "Great place to take the family for a weekend getaway."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Ellijay, Georgia, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ellijay, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ellijay, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 491 campgrounds and RV parks near Ellijay, GA and 37 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Ellijay, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ellijay, GA is Fort Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ellijay, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Ellijay, GA.

What parks are near Ellijay, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Ellijay, GA that allow camping, notably Carters Lake and Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.