Campsites near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia range from full-service RV parks to remote tent camping in the surrounding Lookout Mountain region. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with higher camping options reaching 2,000+ feet on nearby mountains. Winter temperatures average 30-50°F while summer months see 70-90°F with moderate humidity compared to lower elevations.
What to do
Explore waterfalls: 2-mile hike required. At Cloudland Canyon State Park, trails lead to multiple falls with significant elevation changes. "The Gahuti is the most known hiking trail here and we never saw another hiker on the trail except each other when our solo hiking excursions crossed paths," notes one visitor who appreciated the solitude despite the park's popularity.
Tackle mountain biking trails: helmets recommended. Technical trails at Fort Mountain State Park attract cycling enthusiasts with routes varying in difficulty. "The bike trails are not blazed. We suggest everyone wear a helmet not just the required 16 years and younger group," advises a camper who experienced the challenging terrain firsthand.
River activities: bring floatation devices. During summer months, water-based recreation becomes central to the camping experience. A visitor at Skull Island shared, "We brought floaties and just hung out in the water during the afternoon to escape the hot weather. We also did some hiking in the morning which was a blast."
What campers like
Backpacking options: sites 1-3 miles from parking. The backcountry sites at Cloudland Canyon offer privacy away from more developed areas. "We had a backcountry campground with a fire pit and even a picnic table, and was nestled beside a babbling brook. We set up our tents, hung our hammocks and got cooking as soon as we arrived," describes a camper who appreciated the balance between amenities and wilderness.
Private camping spaces: platform sites available. Fort Mountain State Park offers elevated camping platforms that create unique experiences. "The platform sites are a short walk from a parking area near the lake so you can make multiple trips to the car if necessary, while the backcountry sites are up to a 3 mile hike in, so all gear, food, and water will need to be packed in."
Proximity to water: shoreline access. Waterfront camping tops many visitors' preferences for glamping near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia. At Tennessee Wall Camp, "There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing. Plenty of firewood to collect on site."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: proper food storage essential. Bears are active throughout the region. A camper at Fort Mountain reported, "Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here." Always use provided bear boxes or proper food storage techniques.
Site selection challenges: elevation and levelness. Many campsites require careful selection due to terrain. A visitor at Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA noted, "Spots are easy to get in and out of. Although ours was not very level at all. Just not the prettiest place. But a good place to stay."
Reservation systems vary: first-come sites at some parks. Check reservation policies before arriving. "You do not need to notify park office to hike the mountain bike trails anymore," mentions a Fort Mountain visitor, highlighting that regulations change and current information matters when planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: multiple amenities available. Facilities at Chester Frost Park include water recreation and playgrounds. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" explains a parent who enjoyed the family-friendly setup.
Seasonal events: Halloween activities popular. Several campgrounds host special holiday events. A camper observed at Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA, "Campground was well decorated for Halloween including scheduled Trick or Treating for the kids. Lots of activities for kids at the campground and the surrounding area of Chattanooga and the nearby mountains."
Swimming options: check water levels before visit. Many water features depend on seasonal conditions. "Waterfalls were dry, which was disappointing but the hike to them from the West Rim Trail was quite pretty," reports a Cloudland Canyon visitor, suggesting families should have backup plans for recreation during dry periods.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: premium sites book quickly. For luxury glamping near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, advance planning is essential. "The campground has RV Sites - full and partial hook ups, Cabins, Tent Sites, and lots of activities. The park is clean and well kept. It is quiet at night even being near an interstate," explains an RVer at Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA.
Access considerations: road conditions vary. Some campgrounds have challenging access routes. A camper at Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA observed, "The last couple of miles had me a little worried w/my big rig but it went very well. The road is nicely paved and the trees are cut back. No major curves or turns. Plenty of room."
Hookup availability: variations between loops. Research site amenities before booking. At Fort Mountain, "All sites are 30/50 amp with water. Grey water drains are located around the campground. There is a dump station. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring too. Remember, there are a lot of hills here so expect this when walking to bathhouses from most campsites."
