Little Tallapoosa Park in Carrollton offers separate camping sections designed for different user needs. The tent camping area includes spacious sites with electrical connections, though campers should prepare to clear small rocks before setting up. Several paved trails accommodate hikers, families with strollers, and horse riders, while the park's natural features include a creek and small lakes. The campground layout provides adequate space between sites, creating a quieter camping environment despite occasional highway noise from nearby roads.
What to do
Explore riverfront trails: At McIntosh Reserve Park, campers can access the "River Trail" with red blazes that runs between campsites and the Chattahoochee River. "I saw signs for an Orienteering Course. There is a splash pad and a new looking playground that from a glance, might be ADA accessible," notes Sarah S.
Fish from your campsite: Riverside campsites allow direct fishing access at McIntosh Reserve. "I saw people fishing in the Chattahoochee River right off of their campsite. There is a small rapid that stretches across the river near sites 1-10, so you get that nice water flowing sound to fall asleep to," reports Sarah S.
Geocaching adventures: Local parks offer hidden geocaches for treasure hunters. "For those that are into Geocashing, there are a few you could find here. This place has some nice trails and plenty of pavilions for large groups," writes DeWayne H. about the recreational options beyond standard camping activities.
What campers like
Separated camping areas: Little Tallapoosa Park campers appreciate the designated spaces for different camping styles. "I love the separate tent & RV campsites. The tent sites are decent size and there is some wooded space between each one so it felt quiet and semi-private," notes Sarah F.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness rates highly with visitors. "Everything is well maintained from the roads, campsites, unpaved trails, and bathrooms. I was impressed with how clean everything was despite being a campground," Zachary N. mentions about Little Tallapoosa Park.
River sounds: The natural water features enhance the camping experience. At McIntosh Reserve, campers enjoy "that nice water flowing sound to fall asleep to" from the small rapids near sites 1-10, according to Sarah S.
What you should know
No reservations at some parks: McIntosh Reserve operates on a first-come basis with specific check-in procedures. "Camping is first come first served basis, no reservations. $20 per night, parking for one vehicle included. Extra vehicles require $5 parking pass per day. They take credit card," explains Sarah S.
Gate closure times: Some parks restrict nighttime access. "After 8pm, the park gate closes. I was given a gate code in case I needed to leave and return during the closed hours," reports Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve's operations.
Tent site preparation: Be prepared for some site work at Little Tallapoosa Park. "The only downfall was that we had to move a lot of golfball-size rocks out of the way to set up our tent, and we inevitably missed a few, but otherwise it was great!" shares Sarah F.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Family campers have recreational water options beyond swimming. "Just camped here recently with some friends and our kids. Took the kids to the splash pad and enjoyed cooking out and hanging out over night," Ryan N. comments about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Biking opportunities: Paved areas provide safe cycling for children. "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching," notes Sarah F. about the family-friendly activities at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Playground access: Multiple camping areas feature play equipment for children. "It had nice grassy areas and swing set and bike and walking trails," Laura M. mentions about the recreational amenities at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Tips from RVers
Horse camp overflow options: When main RV sections fill, equestrian camping areas provide alternatives for RVers near Emerson. "We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water," advises Hollis K. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: At McIntosh Reserve Park, bigger RVs have limited but available options. "Bigger campers could opt for sites 8 or 9 which don't have trees," recommends Sarah S. for those with larger recreational vehicles.
Connectivity information: Cell service varies by carrier. "Good cell reception with AT&T and Verizon," reports Laura M. about Little Tallapoosa Park, providing essential information for remote workers or those needing to stay connected.
