Dispersed tent campsites near Greensboro, Georgia offer primitive options with minimal facilities in various natural settings around Clarks Hill Lake and the surrounding countryside. Seasonal hunting seasons affect camping experiences in these areas, with fall and winter visitors often hearing gunshots in the distance. Most sites require high-clearance vehicles due to unpaved access roads that can become challenging after rain.
What to do
Water activities at reservoir areas: Tent campers at Leroys Ferry Campground enjoy direct lake access for swimming and fishing. "Sites are only a hundred feet or so from the lake, so I threw up a hammock and watched the sunset over the water and spent time during the day swimming," notes camper Cody S.
Hiking forest trails: Primitive camping areas around Greensboro provide access to wildlife observation opportunities. At Ocmulgee River Camp, one visitor reported, "It was nice and warm even in December! Almost 70 degrees! Spot with a nice horse trail to hike - saw some deer and a mystery black animal, maybe a boar or a bear - unsure."
Stargazing in dark skies: The minimal light pollution at dispersed sites creates opportunities for night sky viewing. At most primitive campsites, nightfall brings nearly complete darkness, though some areas experience intermittent vehicle traffic. A camper at Tyler Hunt Camp observed it was "quiet, super dark at night and beautiful."
What campers like
Affordability of primitive sites: The low cost of dispersed camping appeals to budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. "Can't beat it for the price. $10 bucks a night, sites spaced far enough apart to be comfortable, waterfront, not over crowded. I think it is worth the drive over some of the more crowded places," reports a visitor to Leroys Ferry.
Seasonal variations in crowds: Winter camping near Greensboro offers increased solitude at many sites. A January visitor to Tyler Hunt Camp noted, "This place is a refuge. There are privately owned homes around but the folks keep to themselves. It's quiet, super dark at night and beautiful."
Mobile connectivity: Some dispersed areas maintain reasonable cell service despite remote locations. At Leroys Ferry, one camper reported, "Cell service was spotty on Verizon but I was able to get and receive calls and a few txts although they seemed very delayed."
What you should know
Self-sufficiency requirements: Dispersed camping requires bringing all supplies and removing all waste. "No amenities, you pack it in, you pack it out," explains a Tyler Hunt Camp visitor. Another camper at Leroys Ferry adds, "No trash dumpster either so be prepared to pack it out."
Road conditions to sites: Access to primitive campsites often involves unpaved roads with varying conditions. One camper described Raysville Marina as having "customer service when open in the off season! Friendly, accommodating, very responsive," which can be helpful when navigating to more remote areas.
Hunting season awareness: Fall and winter campers should expect hunting activity in surrounding areas. An Ocmulgee River Camp visitor mentioned, "Open spaces and very quiet this time of the year (January) train horn in the distance and gunshots in the distance as well from hunters here and there."
Evening traffic patterns: Some dispersed sites experience vehicle traffic after dark. One camper at Tyler Hunt Camp reported, "Expect to have a drive thru at least once around 9/10. It's just a see who is in the area type thing."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for child safety: Choose campsites with flat terrain away from water edges when camping with children. At Soap Creek Marina, "Pull-up RV or tent spots with fire pits and picnic tables... Nice walking trails which makes this a great getaway spot," notes one visitor, highlighting features that work well for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many primitive areas offer wildlife encounters that can be educational for children. One camper at Ocmulgee River Camp mentioned, "Saw some deer on a walk. It was quite hot but surprisingly not that buggy," indicating potential wildlife viewing with minimal insect concerns during certain visits.
Water access considerations: When camping with children near water, select sites with gradual shore access. "Most of the campsites have access via trails to the lake. It's clean with easy access and most sites are very easy to navigate," reports a visitor to Leroys Ferry Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges at primitive sites: Many dispersed camping areas lack perfectly level parking. A visitor to Leroys Ferry noted, "You can fit an RV on most sites, although they aren't all completely level."
Limited stay options: Some areas with amenities cater to longer-term RV camping rather than overnight stays. At James Shackleford Memorial Park, one camper observed, "Not much to say about it pretty much all the sites around the lake area the same in Hall county Gwinnett it was very peaceful nice people."
Marina proximity advantages: RVers can benefit from camping near marinas that offer basic supplies. At Soap Creek Marina, "There's a small restaurant located onsite along with a small store," which provides convenient access to essentials without breaking camp.
