Camping sites near Grayson, Georgia provide access to several Corps of Engineers campgrounds on Lake Lanier, along with diverse state parks within a 30-mile radius. Most sites in the region feature moderate terrain with pine and hardwood coverage providing ample shade during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. The campground networks accommodate both tent and RV camping, with fall through spring offering the most comfortable camping weather.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Fort Yargo State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trails shared with mountain bikers. "We loved the hiking. Most of the trails are mixed mountain biking and hiking but when we were there, we only saw two mountain bikes," reports Nancy W., who took advantage of the park's trail system.
Mountain biking: The region provides mountain biking opportunities across several parks. "There is disc golf, nature programs, gift shop, putt-putt golf, playgrounds, hiking, mountain biking, and a 260-acre lake offers swimming, boating, paddling, and fishing," notes a Fort Yargo visitor detailing the variety of activities.
Fishing access: Shoal Creek Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "We had an amazing visit at spot #61 and the view and privacy was fantastic," reports Erika R., adding that despite some maintenance issues, there were "great fishing spots!"
Water recreation: The Lake Lanier campgrounds provide numerous water-based activities. "My husband and son enjoyed fishing and paddle boarding right behind our site," shares Susan K. about her stay at Stone Mountain Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the lakeside locations. "Every site we've stayed at has been great. They vary in size, but most have easy access to the water," explains Julie B. about her experiences at Old Federal.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. "Set back in the woods on a beautiful pond. Deer roaming everywhere," reports Todd L. about Fort Yargo State Park.
Hiking accessibility: Trail access directly from campsites receives frequent mentions. "We were able to walk off of the back of our site and onto the trail system, which is perfect because we are avid hikers," notes George & Patty C. about their stay at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness and maintenance stand out in reviews. "Comfort stations are clean and sites are nice! Geocaching also available," reports Debbie K. about Hard Labor Creek State Park.
What you should know
Campsite variations: Some campgrounds feature significant differences between sites. "If you're like me and appreciate a bit of privacy when camping, the walk-in campsites at Fort Yargo are the place to go. Just a short 1-2 minutes walk from your car and bathrooms, but you feel much more secluded than the campsites in the regular campground," advises Amalia K.
Alcohol restrictions: Several campgrounds enforce strict alcohol policies. At Shady Grove Campground, one visitor noted: "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here... Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00. No warning."
Maintenance inconsistencies: Some lake facilities receive mixed reviews for upkeep. "When I visited Shoal Creek camp ground, I was greatly disappointed. There was trash every where, the bathrooms were disgusting," reported one visitor, while others had positive experiences at the same location.
Weekend crowds: Many campgrounds experience significant population differences between weekdays and weekends. "The weekend nights were so crowded with cars spilling into the camp roads, loads of large groups at each site. Felt very claustrophobic. On weekdays the park became a (lovely) ghost town," explains Christina about Hard Labor Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly play areas. "We tent camped for about a week, wildlife especially deer was abundant. Playground was close to site. Area was huge and well spaced between sites," reports Shea D. about their experience at Shady Grove.
Beach swimming: Lake swimming opportunities appeal to families with children. "They have free transportation within the park/campground area. Helpful staff too," notes Harvey B. about Stone Mountain Park, adding that despite renovations "this did not impede any traffic or fun."
Overnight alternatives: For those seeking non-tent options, many parks offer alternatives. "Overnight accommodations include fully equipped cottages, adventure cabins, yurts, and campsites," explains a Fort Yargo visitor, providing options for families less comfortable with traditional tent camping.
Nature programs: Educational activities for children operate at several parks. "There is a nice playground that is walking distance from our favorite camp sites that the kids really love," reports a Shady Grove visitor, highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
