Best Tent Camping near Fortson, GA

Wildlife Management Areas near Fortson, Georgia provide several tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking primitive experiences. Kings Pond at Fort Benning offers hike-in tent sites with basic amenities including toilets and trash service. Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area, located about an hour north, provides walk-in tent sites in a dispersed camping setting. The Hollow at Triple Threat Farm, situated east of Fortson, features multiple tent camping access options including walk-in sites with more developed facilities.

Tent campers should prepare for varying amenities across these locations. Kings Pond provides picnic tables and allows fires, but lacks drinking water and firewood. Campers need to pack in their own water supply and cooking equipment. Joe Kurz WMA requires a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license to camp, reflecting its primary purpose for hunting activities. According to Lonnie B., "Visitors should be aware of active hunting seasons," making it essential to check regulations before planning a tent camping trip. Most sites feature fire pits, but limited facilities otherwise, emphasizing the primitive tent camping experience available in this region.

The backcountry tent camping experience varies by location. Kings Pond offers a sense of seclusion despite its military post location. As one camper noted, "Although you can still hear training some nights, you feel as if you're a million miles away." Joe Kurz WMA provides no cell coverage and primarily attracts tent and car campers seeking quiet surroundings. The Hollow at Triple Threat Farm delivers a more developed experience with drinking water, showers, and toilets while maintaining an off-grid atmosphere. Walk-in tent sites throughout the region typically provide more privacy than drive-up locations, with tent-only areas offering a more authentic outdoor experience away from larger vehicles and equipment.

Best Tent Sites Near Fortson, Georgia (9)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Fortson, GA

4 Photos of 9 Fortson Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Fortson, GA

373 Reviews of 9 Fortson Campgrounds


  • Kyle S.
    Aug. 14, 2020

    Military Park Fort Benning Uchee Creek Army Campground and Marina

    Tent site

    Super well maintained tent sites. The tent footprint is elevated by railroad ties, preventing flooding and it made it very convenient to put my boots on in the morning. Established trash/food hang poles as well as picnic tables next to the fire ring with fold over grill capabilities.

  • Dave V.
    Nov. 1, 2019

    Providence Canyon State Park Campground

    Fascinating History and Formations

    Providence Canyon State Park, Lumpkin, GA

    https://gastateparks.org/ProvidenceCanyon 

    Providence Canyon State Park is tucked away in the southwest corner of Georgia...but offers a surprising beauty as a result of erosion. As you enter the State Park, it is fairly linear running alongside the roadway. Day use appears to be the high volume. 

    Two children’s playgrounds, two picnic pavilions and two restrooms are positioned along the upper rim as you head to the visitor center. The visitor center offers location specific clothing, souvenirs and some snack items...along with additional restrooms. 

    Opposite the first playground, on the right side of the roadway when you enter the park is a Methodist church from 1832 and a small pioneer cemetery that offers a realistic view of the hardships faced by these adventurous folks. 

    The actual“Georgia Grand Canyon” is barely visible as you make your way to the visitors center. But once you’ve paid the daily use fee($5) and signed in...you can choose the trails you desire to explore. An upper rim trail, fenced by split rail, travels the canyon rim... is easiest and offers a splendid Birdseye view and wonderful photo opportunities.. 

    Hiking down into the shallow canyon affords a worthwhile close-up view and nicer photographs (in my opinion) especially with the backdrop of azure skies. Because the canyon and formations are merely sand and clay, they are fragile. As I briefly climb upon my soapbox, the plethora of posted warning signs are not heeded, so violators climb and scramble for their coveted selfies...defacing the natural beauty and causing more damage. While warning signs make threat of prosecution, without consistent or constant enforcement it will continue. 

    Once on the canyon floor, you have a few options...but for the best views hang a left and follow the small wooden Canyon 1-5 signs. All the reviews state canyons 4 and 5 are the nicest...and they are...but if you explore the canyons in numerical sequence, each gets better as you go. With fully leafed trees and foliage, viewing is tough in canyons 1-3. Signage is absent as to where the trails end, as past hikers tread further and higher in each canyon. Canyons 4 and 5 offer more prohibitive signage. 

    The canyon floor is a mixture of wet and dry sand. In areas a steady stream of water flows. It was dry weather on my visit so I can only assume the water would be deeper during or immediately following rains. During my late October visit, water wasn’t deep enough to enter your hiking shoes. Heed the heat and drinking water warnings during hot days, Little to no breeze in the canyon. 

    I did not travel the longer backcountry trail on this visit, so defer to other reviewers comments on its enjoyment.

     Camping: You have two choices...a handful of Backcountry Primitive Camping that require a backpack into the canyon and 3 Pioneer Group Campsites. It’s easy to miss Pioneer Campsites 1& 2, as they are located beyond the gated park and down a two track gravel drive. Unfortunately, from the campsite, the roadway can be seen through the trees and traffic noise is loud when traveling by. During normal sleep hours (midweek) night traffic was sparse, but still disruptive. Because of road construction during my visit, it wasn’t excessive during daylight hours. 

    Pioneer 1-3 are essentially group sites designed to accommodate larger camping parties. But for one tent and two people $43.00 was an exorbitant price, especially with merely a pit toilet, two picnic tables and a fire ring...NO electric, NO water. But I’ve found Georgia parks a tad steep in cost in comparison to other State’s parks. 

    Interestingly, time zones shift from Eastern at the visitors center to Central Time at Pioneer Campsites 1& 2...so be cognizant of the switch. Pioneer 1 group site boasts a newer pit latrine with a solar spot light for nighttime...and was amply stocked. Previous campers removed the two large picnic tables from beneath the shed style shelter to the campfire ring area. The picnic tables are large and heavy, so without a group present, you won’t be moving them back to their rightful location. 

    For a tent camping location...there is negligible flat ground to pitch a tent, but if you are a hammock camper there are plenty of trees. The grounds at Pioneer 1 where strewn with plastic and pop tops, cigarette butts, partially melted plastic ware and snack food wrappers littered the wooded area. Not cool. A lidded plastic garbage can is tethered to the shelter so there is no excuse.

     Pioneer site 2 had a grassy field, flatter area for tents and further down into the canyon past Pioneer site 1. 

    Pioneer site 3 is appears to be the coveted group site with ample flat, grassy field for tents, area for parking and a huge shelter. The long winding gravel two-track is also located immediately to the left upon entering the main entrance so you have the“security” of the park’s front gate being locked at 6:00 p.m.(A pavement sensor permits egress if you need to exit, but you won’t be driving back in til morning when they reopen.) 

    Overall, if you shared the site as a group, defraying the cost...midweek camping would not be bad. After visiting the canyon for a couple hours, there is not much else to visit in the immediate area, so bring a book. 

    Wildlife: you’ll likely hear some owls calling out throughout the night and woodpeckers in early morning. Small yellow finch’s were abundant. Mention of wild hogs in the park as well. 

    Final thoughts: A one time camping visit is sufficient for my tastes. Even at half the price, I’m not sure I’d camp here solo. However, I will likely visit the canyon in the future to see possible changes due to further erosion.

  • Adam V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2021

    Chewacla State Park Campground

    Great little state park just outside Auburn.

    Traveling back east, we found Chewacla State Park campground on The Dyrt. Due to heavy rain, did not make it as far as we wanted, so this was a last minute same day reservation, which we made online.

    Total fees were $42 for a full hookup site. We got site 34 which is an 80' long back in spot. Super easy to back in, even in super dark conditions with heavy cloud cover and no street lights of any kind.

    Water pressure is awesome and they have both 30 & 50 amp electric. Sewage is nicely placed in a low spot so you won't need a hose lifter (a rarity in our experience).

    Out spot is across from the bath house, but also the dump station. No smells, but I would imagine mornings might be a bit congested and noisy as other campers are leaving and dumping.

    Also directly across from the site is a large picnic shelter. Sites are decently spaced apart, though site 35 is a pull through, and though unoccupied on our nights stay, might make it feel a bit more cramped.

    Our site had a fire ring and picnic table. And even though it's close to the highway, no noticeable traffic noise. Only thing we could hear were some kids playing across the campground.

    It's about 5 minutes off the interstate and very easy access (just watch out for the staggered speed bumps at the campground entrance...it's narrow, too.

    No wi-fi in the park. But Verizon 4G was 3 out of 5 bars on my Samsung S20+. 

    Overall a great spot and easy to reserver online for those looking for a calm and peaceful overnight. Looking forward to getting a run on the trails in the morning!

  • James A.
    May. 19, 2021

    Rood Creek Park Camping

    Good tent camping

    Free. Found a good spot with a view of the water. Watched the alligators and birds on the water. Was able to easily launch a canoe as there is a boat ramp. Vault toilets were available. Picnic table, fire ring, and grill at each campsite.

  • J
    May. 4, 2019

    Amity Campground

    Pretty and peaceful

    Our site was nothing like pictured on the website, so we were unable to set up like we wanted to. The fire ring and picnic table were not near one another so the table was useless to us (it is a cement table permanently mounted and could not be moved). Overall, it's a very nice campground. Going to ride around today to scope out other sites.

  • L
    Apr. 11, 2021

    Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground

    Great State park and camping

    We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake. Loop 1 sites are lake front and lake view but more close together than we like. Sites pretty level and gravel. Concrete picnic table, fire ring and light pole with lots of room fir our dogs. Bathroom facilities were very clean, with showers and laundry. Placed well around the campground. Playground but not opened at this time. Lots of hiking trails, pool, can rent canoes and paddle boats on the lake. Dog friendly. Close to Calloway Gardens and little town of Pine Mountain.

  • Brock D.
    Jul. 20, 2020

    Providence Canyon State Park Campground

    Primitive campsite was great

    We did the primitive site for an overnight hike in. We loved it! Definitely need your map to get through the lower canyon area. When they say follow the creek, they mean walk In it until you find the path. Don’t venture out at night, came across some angry hogs!

  • L
    Jul. 15, 2020

    Blanton Creek Park Georgia Power

    Great campground and lake area

    Loved the area. We had lake front site #6. Had our kayak and small fishing boat at site shore. Our golden retrievers loved being at the water. Sites are very large with good space between them. Most are shaded, level, gravel with picnic tables, large fire ring, lots of space for chairs. Had plenty of space for our grill as well. This Harding Lake runs into/part of Chattahoochee River. No wake zone around the campground area so it was perfect for kayaking and small boat fishing. Nice bathroom facility and laundry area too. Very clean. Bob was a great camp host and was informative about the park. Will have to try in the fall with leaf change. Still ok for 90 plus temps. 🥵 Slight breeze off lake. Highly recommend this Georgia Power campground!

  • Bryan D.
    Jul. 4, 2018

    Holiday Campground

    Great place to camp

    We had a great time at this COE campground. The sites in our area were all on the water with easy access. Our site had a picnic table, grill and fire ring. The sites are large with plenty of space between neighboring sites. We had 30 & 50 amp electric hookups and water. There are no sewer hookups at the sites but they do have dump stations.


Guide to Fortson

Tent camping near Fortson, Georgia offers primitive options within wildlife management areas and private lands. Most sites sit at elevations of 200-350 feet above sea level with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons when nighttime temperatures range from 45-65°F.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area provides access to several small ponds for fishing during non-hunting seasons. Lenear B. notes, "No cell coverage, has fire pit, mostly tent and car campers. I went with a travel trailer."

Wildlife observation: Kings Pond/ Fort Benning features designated hiking trails where campers can spot native wildlife in their natural habitat. The pond attracts various bird species and small mammals. Nikki W. mentions, "Although it's on post, and you can still hear training some nights, You feel as if you're a million miles away."

Stargazing: The limited light pollution at most Fortson area tent sites creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. Rural locations like wildlife management areas offer unobstructed views without city light interference. Pack red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.

What campers like

Primitive experience: Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area appeals to those seeking minimal facilities and true backcountry camping. The area requires self-sufficiency with no running water or permanent toilets. Lonnie B. explains, "Important to note is the requirement for a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license to camp, reflecting the area's primary use for hunting and fishing activities."

Off-grid amenities: The Hollow at Triple Threat Farm provides a balanced primitive experience with basic amenities. Tiffany B. simply states, "Off-grid done right!"

Solitude: The wildlife management areas around Fortson typically have sparse camping crowds except during peak hunting seasons. Most tent sites require modest hikes from parking areas, creating natural separation between campers.

What you should know

License requirements: Wildlife management areas near Fortson typically require valid Georgia hunting or fishing licenses to camp legally. Purchase these online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources before arrival.

Seasonal considerations: Fall hunting seasons impact campground availability and safety at wildlife management areas. Always wear bright colors during hunting seasons and check area closures before planning trips.

Water planning: Pine and Oak Campsite and most wildlife management areas near Fortson lack drinking water sources. Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day depending on temperatures and activities. Many streams in the region are not reliable for filtering, especially during dry summer months.

Tips for camping with families

Beginner-friendly option: Triple Threat Farm offers the most family-friendly amenities with designated tent sites, drinking water, and basic bathroom facilities. The farm environment provides a gentler introduction to primitive camping for children.

Safety considerations: JAM Mission and other walk-in tent sites require careful planning with children. Pack lightweight gear that older children can help carry and bring walkie-talkies for communication when exploring the property.

Wildlife education: The diverse ecosystems around Fortson provide excellent nature study opportunities for children. Bring field guides specific to Georgia wildlife and plants to identify species around your campsite.

Tips from RVers

Site limitations: Most tent camping locations near Fortson have restricted or no RV access due to narrow forest roads and lack of developed facilities. Heard WMA Campground No. 3 and similar locations are primarily accessible by small vehicles, boats, or on foot.

Alternative options: RVers seeking proximity to Fortson should consider commercial campgrounds in Columbus or LaGrange with full hookups, as wildlife management areas typically lack RV-appropriate facilities.

Seasonal access: Heavy rains can make unpaved access roads to primitive sites impassable for larger vehicles. Plan visits during drier months if bringing anything larger than a standard passenger vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fortson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fortson, GA is Kings Pond/ Fort Benning with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Fortson, GA?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Fortson, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.