Tent camping near Hiram, Georgia ranges from primitive backcountry sites to more accessible car camping options within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences moderate winters with occasional freezing temperatures and hot, humid summers that typically reach into the 90s. Most local campgrounds remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 65-80°F.
What to do
Kayaking the Chattahoochee River: Bush Head Shoals Park provides direct river access with kayak rentals available onsite. "We floated and hiked and had an amazing time. There are a lot of things to do if you are adventurous enough and love the outdoors," notes camper Christy R.
Wildlife viewing: The area offers excellent opportunities for bird watching, particularly at Bush Head Shoals Park. "Almost every time I camp here I see a bald eagle flying over the river," reports Justin K., highlighting the park's natural setting.
Hiking nearby trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking trails directly accessible from campsites. At Panola Mountain State Park Campground, one option includes a guided tour experience. "We took the guided tour of the Mountain and it was awesome. We ate Pine Trees and they explained about likenand the red fungus. Highly recommended," shares Holly B.
What campers like
Clean, spacious camping sites: Campers consistently praise the size and maintenance of tent sites at Bush Head Shoals Park. "They have 6 camp sites that all have a picnic table, fire pit and a large fine gravel plot for a tent. All the components are extremely well kept," says Julia M.
Quiet natural surroundings: Serenity Ridge offers a truly secluded experience with its single-site setup. "You don't need camping gear. A tent or two can be set up, ready for you. Cooler stocked with ice. Firewood stacked by the fire pit, ready for you to roast hotdogs or s'mores!" reports camper Ty M.
Hammock-friendly sites: Multiple campsites in the area feature trees suitable for hammocks. At Bush Head Shoals Park, Michael P. notes: "There were plenty of trees around the sites to hang hammocks."
What you should know
Limited amenities at most sites: Many campgrounds in the Hiram area offer primitive camping with minimal facilities. At Hideaway Park, campers should prepare for basic accommodations. "You can tell that the property has been empty for quite some time, but I saw a pretty good bit of progress during the time I spent there," notes David S.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds require hiking to reach tent sites. Michael T. describes Panola Mountain State Park Campground: "Getting to the campsite was simple enough and it is the quoted 3/4 mile walk in. It was great to see some families utilizing the space."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Hiram require advance reservations. Bush Head Shoals Park owners "were very easy to communicate with. They met us at the campground to make sure we knew where everything was and to see if we needed anything," according to Michael P.
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate campsites: Some campgrounds are more family-friendly than others. Julia M. found Sacred Space Urban Retreat suitable for their family: "We had a great time. (Family of 4: 3 and 5 year old)."
Pack accordingly for primitive conditions: Many sites lack running water or electricity. At Bush Head Shoals Park, one camper notes: "They currently do not have running water or a shower house but they indicated they are trying to construct one soon."
Check proximity to facilities: Vault toilets are available at some locations. Michael P. appreciates that at Bush Head Shoals Park "they have 2 vault toilets, which are lit at night which is nice."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most campgrounds near Hiram prioritize tent camping with few RV-specific amenities. Regarding Hembree Park Campground, Xochilt E. cautions: "It's not an RV park, they said there's is a little section of the park for rv but non hookups of any kind."
Primitive road conditions: Gravel access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Ron G. shares about Bush Head Shoals Park: "The roads are gravel but well maintained. We had no problems getting in. The spots are well maintained, no power or water, so be prepared."
Alternative nearby options: Consider Atlanta West Campground for RV needs. Asher K. explains: "This is much more of a mobile home or RV park than a campground since most of the people staying here are set up for long term residency rather than for a night or two."