Camping options near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia extend beyond developed RV parks to include tent camping and rustic accommodations. Located in the northwestern corner of Georgia near the Tennessee border, this area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet with typically mild springs and falls but hot, humid summers. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to Do
Explore Chickamauga Battlefield hiking trails: Located just minutes from most campgrounds, these historical trails offer moderate terrain suitable for all ages. At Parksville Lake RV Campground, campers appreciate the mix of history and nature. "Great site. Easy to navigate around sites. Lots of shade. Close by Occoee White Water center where the Atlanta olympics took place. Plan your visit around the water release. There schedule is online. Pretty cool to see the water trickle and then mass if water come at you," notes Linda B.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Within 45 minutes of Fort Oglethorpe, several accessible waterfalls provide day trip opportunities. Guests at Chilhowee Recreation Area mention the falls as highlights. "There's a small hike to Cumberland Falls, which is gorgeous! We had a great time! Hot water for showers/restroom facilities," shares Alison B. The Benton Falls trail is another favorite, described as "a 3 miles RT" hike with peak fall colors in October.
Mountain biking trails: Several trail systems accommodate riders of various skill levels. Many campgrounds provide direct trail access. "We walked over to loops C&D and E&F and those loops were still quite spacious. The trails are what really makes this an all around great campground. Several hikes for all levels," explains Tracy J., referring to the 25 miles of trails at Chilhowee.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, several parks in the region offer well-spaced sites. At Little River RV Park & Campground, "Most sites have a slight to moderate slope to them. Lots of shade," according to Steve V. While some reviewers note sites are close together, others found "the 'back country' sites" provided better spacing and privacy.
Proximity to multiple attractions: The strategic location allows easy access to both Tennessee and Georgia destinations. Campers at 1776 RV And Campground appreciate this convenience. "Nice quiet small campground just outside downtown Mentone. Friendly helpful camp host, clean bathhouse, full hook ups and great wifi access so husband could work from camper. Lots of hiking trails within a short drive," reports Lisa M.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers specifically mention well-maintained bathhouses. "Clean bathrooms with showers, fire rings with grill grates, lots of hiking, hike to a beautiful waterfall, huge lake to swim or float on a raft," says Heather W. about Chilhowee Recreation Area, while another camper noted "Bathhouse was clean and well lit."
What You Should Know
Highway noise affects some campgrounds: Several parks sit near major highways, creating noise issues for light sleepers. One camper at Hawkins Pointe RV Park notes it's "Close to everything. Racing just down the street. That's a positive or negative. On the nights they are racing you hear the cars at the track."
Cell service varies significantly: Reception depends on specific location and carrier. "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal," explains one Chilhowee visitor, while other parks like 1776 RV And Campground offer "great wifi access."
Some roads present RV challenges: Mountain roads can be difficult for larger rigs. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns Carissa D. Another camper advises: "Don't drive up the dirt path, we made that mistake. Take the regular rode. GPS sends you automatically to the dirt road."
Tips for Camping with Families
Dog-friendly areas: Most campgrounds welcome pets but have varying amenities. Hawkins Pointe RV Park "does have very nice place to walk, dog park/wash," according to Kimberly Z., while some parks restrict pets from swimming areas. "We didn't go to the swimming beach, because dogs are not allowed," notes one visitor.
Playground availability: For families with young children, Whitewater RV Park - Ocoee TN offers family-friendly amenities. Sites are "level and concrete with a nice fire pit," according to Justin, making them suitable for families with small children who need flat terrain for play areas.
Swimming options: Several parks feature swimming areas for cooling off during hot months. Little River RV Park & Campground provides water recreation. "Very close to DeSoto State Park that has lots of hiking and site-seeing. Good alternative when DeSoto campground has no availability," notes Steve V., mentioning the swimming options available.
Tips from RVers
Site utilities placement: Pay attention to hookup locations when booking. At Chilhowee Recreation Area, one camper describes: "Our site was probably the worst designed one. Really strange back-in in the shape of an L over a creek with the electric on the wrong side. Probably why it was still available." Another notes there are "no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up."
Dump station access: Maneuvering large rigs to dump stations can be challenging. "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else," reports Mike N.
Long-term vs. short-term areas: Several parks separate long-term residents from overnight guests. At River Life RV Resort, visitors note the owners are "amazing & so helpful" for short-term stays, while other nearby parks may have "a lot of long term older campers on site" but remain "nicely kept."
