Camping spots near Brookhaven, Georgia vary from lakeside retreats to urban-adjacent accommodations within a 45-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping experiences milder 40-60°F conditions. Tent campers should be prepared for the red clay soil common throughout the region, which can become muddy after rain.
What to do
Hike mountain trails: Stone Mountain Park offers multiple hiking routes, including the climb to the summit with panoramic views. "We loved these grounds. They were clean and there was easy access to bathrooms. The hike to the top was a challenge, but the views were worth it," notes Judy B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Water activities: Lake Allatoona provides swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding opportunities during the warmer months. Susan K. from Stone Mountain Park Campground shares, "My husband and son enjoyed fishing and paddle boarding right behind our site. There was a lot to see and do at Stone Mountain."
Explore historic sites: Visit mill ruins and historic structures on guided or self-guided tours. "Make sure you go see Manchester Mill Ruins," recommends Mike K. about Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground. The park preserves remnants of a textile mill destroyed during the Civil War.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Lakefront camping spots provide direct water access for fishing and swimming. "We stayed at site 21 and had a great time. Decent bathrooms/bath house. Sites were on the water and great sizes," reports Maddie K. about Mckinney Campground.
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds offer tree cover for shade and separation between sites. "We camped with my parents in the RV section of the campground, it was beautifully wooded and offered plenty of space/privacy from other campsites and was still a short walk from the bathhouse," states Dalhya L. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Multi-activity parks: Larger campgrounds feature diverse recreational options beyond camping. Holly B. reports, "The campground offers everything you would ever need. There are tons of things to do from Golf, hiking, zoo, laser show, food and you can hike the mountain or take a ride to the top. There are bike trails and plenty of entertainment for all."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds with traffic sounds throughout the night. "It's definitely not quiet unless you're in an RV. And I guess we camped on the wrong morning too because they started mowing the lawn at around 8:30-9 am after listening the highway all night," warns Jennifer T. about Mckinney Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain may require extra equipment for comfortable setup. Susan K. notes, "The only downfall was that the trailer needed a lot of leveling. But it was totally worth it."
Reservation requirements: Sweetwater Campground sites fill quickly, particularly for waterfront spots. "We always stay on site 100 it's right on the water," mentions Mary B., indicating the popularity of premium locations that should be booked well in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Look for campgrounds with regularly maintained facilities for family comfort. Tonya B. explains about Stone Mountain Park Campground: "We spent a weekend here in section O. It was a nice, spacious campsite with a nice picnic table and partial view of the lake even though we didn't have 'lake view' site. The shower house was a little dirty, so that's why I gave 4 stars instead of 5."
Transportation options: Some larger parks offer internal transport systems. "They have free transportation within the park/campground area. Helpful staff too. The sites are close but they are not difficult to enter," shares Harvey B. from Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Atlanta Alpaca Treehouse in the Bamboo Forest provides a unique accommodation with animal interactions. "This treehouse is a work of art. With comfy beds and all the amenities you need, this is truly a one of a kind experience," notes Ashley F. about this distinctive lodging option.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay considerations: Jones RV Park accommodates longer-term visitors with specific policies. "I stayed here long term for a couple of years while working in Atlanta. They have nightly sites and long term sites, a bathhouse, laundry, and the office staff are very nice. The sites have gravel which is nice," explains Elizabeth G.
RV site navigation: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Urban accessibility: RV parks closer to Atlanta offer convenient access to city amenities. Michael F. from Dobbins Lakeside Campground comments, "Well kept camp site close to baseball stadium north of Atlanta. Easy access to highways. Nestled in the trees but not much scenic views but close to base exchange."
