Best Campgrounds near Holly Springs, GA

Lake Allatoona dominates the camping landscape around Holly Springs, Georgia, with numerous campgrounds situated along its shoreline. Established campgrounds like Sweetwater, McKinney, and Red Top Mountain State Park offer a range of accommodation options from tent sites to RV hookups, yurts, and cabins. Most campgrounds in the area provide electric and water hookups, with many sites offering direct lake access. The region primarily features developed camping areas managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Georgia State Parks, with campgrounds concentrated within a 15-mile radius of Holly Springs, providing convenient access for visitors from the greater Atlanta area.

Gate hours and seasonal operations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many campgrounds operating on limited schedules from March through September. "The campground is gated, and the gates are shut between 10:30pm and 8am, so if you are arriving late, make sure you get in before 10:30," noted one visitor regarding Sweetwater Campground. Water levels in Lake Allatoona fluctuate seasonally, which can impact boating and fishing opportunities. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends when lakefront sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds feature paved roads suitable for standard vehicles, though some sites may have steep grades that prove challenging for larger RVs.

Waterfront access stands out as the defining feature of camping in this region, with numerous sites offering direct views of Lake Allatoona. Campers frequently mention the spacious sites and shaded camping areas as highlights. A visitor observed that "Large campground with lots of water front sites. Boat ramp and playground. Clean facilities and lots of shaded sites." While most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, bathhouse quality can vary. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 80s to 90s, making lake access particularly valuable for swimming and cooling off. Noise levels vary by location and time of year, with holiday weekends drawing larger crowds. The proximity to Atlanta makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations, so midweek reservations often provide a quieter experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Holly Springs, Georgia (284)

    1. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 975-0055

    $40 - $315 / night

    "Many were positioned right on the lake. The trails in the park were great for hiking and running. We enjoyed visiting the Qualusi Winery that was nearby."

    "Our site I believe was 51 and steps away from The water. Easy check in and friendly staff."

    2. Sweetwater Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $290 / night

    "These are two completely different parks in two completely different parts of Georgia. SCofA does not have a mill, ruins, river or mountain trails. It does have a lake. Allatoona Lake."

    "Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc."

    3. Mckinney Campground

    24 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $30 - $34 / night

    "Georgia Veteran’s Memorial State Park, McKinney Campground on Allatoona Lake (north of Atlanta; a Corp of Engineer park) - very woodsy and a nice lake. Hiking, rafting/etc, and walking all around."

    "Campground Review: This campground is an excellent place to stay not far outside of the bustling metropolis of Atlanta."

    4. Victoria Campground

    15 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Lots of sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet."

    "Wanted to know every detail of everyone in our party, and my husband came late and I have to give notice for him to join us ( the campground is gated) Now the positives- It’s right on beautiful lake Allatoona"

    5. Payne Campground

    13 Reviews
    Woodstock, GA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $68 / night

    "This campground is full of beautiful lakeside sites! Many are well-spaced, but some are close together. We camped with our van in one of the tent sites because the rv sites were full."

    "I didn't get a chance to snap pictures or videos but it is nestled along the shore of Lake Allatoona."

    6. Clark Creek North Campground

    12 Reviews
    Acworth, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 387-5149

    $34 / night

    "There is also signage to verify that you are going the right way until you see the CG entrance. We pulled into the gate area and were checked in by the attendant on duty."

    "Clark Creek North is a small gem tucked along the shore of Lake Allatoona just north of Atlanta. It is small with just 24 spots equipped with water and electric and every spot has water access."

    7. Stone Mountain Park Campground

    92 Reviews
    Stone Mountain, GA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 498-5710

    $44 - $65 / night

    "Lived in Georgia my whole life and yet my first time to Stone Mountain was literally three years ago. Now we have an annual pass and go all the time."

    "Very clean camp grounds, if you don't mind a familes close by. Can set up next to the lake. Pet friendly and several children and families around. Ton of activities around stone mountain park."

    8. Mckaskey Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $34 / night

    "My dad SCUBA dives quite a bit in a quarry nearby, so this is a great site for the family to stay with the camper."

    "It also seems as though most have access to the lake and the bath houses are pretty clean."

    9. McKinney Campground

    10 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $28 / night

    "If you want lake front, they got it! Almost all sites either have a view of the lake or are right on lake Allatoona! We tent camped here on site 45 in October 2017."

    "Great water views and easy step down to the waters edge for fishing. In our area, the bathroom/shower combo is adequate but needs an update."

    10. Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing

    11 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 974-6089

    $42 - $52 / night

    "The lake is beautiful. It’s quiet other than the occasional train whistles. The WiFi is pretty much non existent so don’t plan on that. Even with a booster we couldn’t pick it up."

    "The bathrooms were pretty amazing compared to the last campground we were at which was also on alatoona lake as well. ( McKinney camp ground ) The first night we got here it was packed, like crazy packed"

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Recent Reviews near Holly Springs, GA

1161 Reviews of 284 Holly Springs Campgrounds


  • Jennifer M.
    Nov. 1, 2025

    Dicks Creek Falls Campsites off Main Road

    perfectly scenic

    The winding road to the few campgrounds along the way was beautiful but narrow. We didn't see any potties and it ends with a sandy area at the water where about 6 cars were parked (perhaps they were all kayaking or hiking but we only saw two people. We backtracked a bit to a site along the stream with ample space for at least two or three tents. It was along the road and there were a few cars driving past during the night but not enough to bother us or make us feel unsafe at all. There was a trail at this site as well just on the other side of the water which went a few miles around to the road and looped back but it hadn't been maintained in a bit so there was a decent amount of climbing and exploration on our part to stay on it. Wouldn't advise without good trail maps on your phone.

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Quick fall foliage trip

    The park is absolutely beautiful, great scenery and hiking trails. The visitors center is nice, but the helpfulness of the staff was hit or miss. The campsite is nice, quiet, clean bathrooms and warm showers. We camped in a tent and the ground was hard, almost like cement which made staking the tent down difficult. Other than this, we loved it and would come back again.

  • Jason D.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Little Tallapoosa Park

    Quiet weekend

    I was the only occupied site tent so I had the entire area to myself. Plenty of trails to walk/bike on. Bathrooms were clean, just felt like they could be updated.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    Red top mountain state park

    Plenty of campsites, some on the lake. RV, tents, yurts. Spaces 1-12 are especially nice since they are spacious and can handle class A and 5th wheelers. All 12 have water electric and sewer. We have a class C and prefer 1-12 because there is plenty of space between sites.

  • Kayla D.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bald Ridge Creek

    It’s a NO from us

    I wanted to wait a few days before writing this review — truthfully, I wanted to wait until after we checked out. I dreaded the retribution of Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Farmer, the campground manager, which I was sure would follow.

    Our church group had been looking forward to this camping trip for nearly a year. I’ve personally camped at Bald Ridge Creek Campground many times and never had a single issue — until now. Our church typically takes two group trips a year at another Forsyth County campground, but this year, we decided to rent nine sites at Bald Ridge. Even Cindy seemed excited that we were coming!

    We’re a Baptist group — not exactly known for our wild nights. We sing, we fellowship, and we’re back in our campers by 10 p.m. But according to “Queen Cindy,” you’d think we were a pack of college kids throwing keg parties.

    Our crime? An evening of worship and fellowship — a small keyboard, a guitar, and around 50 people spread over three campsites for a couple of hours each night. Cindy declared it an “event” (apparently forbidden) and told us we couldn’t do it again and threatened to make us all leave. She also banned us from eating together — saying we could gather while serving food but had to disperse to our own campsites immediately once we got our plates.

    The only actual rule violation came from one site where a tent wasn’t put up right away. Cindy seized on that excuse to call dispatch and have three sheriff’s deputies sent to “deal with” our peaceful group of families, children, and worshipers.

    To their credit, the deputies couldn’t have been kinder, yet embarrassed that they even had to be there. They laughed at the situation, noting they’re called out to the campground frequently because of Cindy’s pettiness and made-up rules. They said our little keyboard — which Cindy had described like it was a baby grand piano — was no problem at all. They simply advised us to set up the tent and let her stomp it out.

    Cindy even claimed that someone had called the Corps of Engineers to report us — at 7:00 p.m., during the government shutdown, when the office wasn’t even open. 🙄

    For context, Cindy lives at the campground for free as part of her role as host. It’s time for someone new to take over. She also wears a body camera and records campers (which is legal, I know), but as a county employee, those recordings are public record.

    We’ll continue to pray without ceasing for her — that the Lord softens her heart. But until then, I can’t recommend Bald Ridge Creek Campground to anyone who values fair treatment, hospitality, or simple human kindness.

  • George M.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Mulky Campground

    Great location for fishing

    A lot of the campsites are right on the water, so it's super easy to fish. But if you want something more private, there are also some secluded spots up the road.

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Rules not enforced

    The sites are very small and very close together. The lake does have beautiful views. I give 1 star because no rules are enforced. There was no quiet time for us. People were partying, loud music, yelling, being loud up to 3/4am. Both Friday and Saturday nights. It was so bad Friday night that we went to the local Dollar Tree for EAR PLUGS so we could sleep Saturday night. The gate is locked at 10pm however the gate will let you out. A camper below us went to the gate about 11pm and let 2 other cars in. 1 vehicle went out, 3 come in. No rules are enforced. We do not recommend it. The host site is an eye sore. It needs to be cleaned up. It's such a mess! The lake is so beautiful, though.

  • A
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Margaritaville

    Best Campground Ever

    My wife and I went here for a week back in June 2025. I’ve been to many campgrounds in my day and I can say this one by far is the best. Clean campsites, fun amenities and great golf.

    We went to a Braves game one night since it is only an hour away and made may fond memories. I have already scheduled my week to go back again in 2026!


Guide to Holly Springs

Camping near Holly Springs, Georgia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Vogel State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The kids had loads of fun playing by the little rivers. Several hikes/trails ranging in difficulty to choose from."
  • Swimming: At Fort Yargo State Park Campground, you can enjoy a nice beach area. A reviewer said, "The campground is quiet and clean. One word of caution, check the grade of your site before booking."
  • Fishing: Don Carter State Park Campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One camper noted, "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there’s even a canoe trail!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground said, "Bathroom and bath house area kept very clean with plenty of HOT water."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. A reviewer at Red Top Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is quiet with well laid out sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Stone Mountain Park Campground shared, "Sites are usually clean and staff are friendly."

What you should know:

  • Site Conditions: Some sites may have steep grades. A camper at Sweetwater Campground advised, "Check the grade of your site before booking; there are quite a few with a very steep grade."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A visitor at Georgia Unicoi State Park noted, "The bathrooms are dated but had plenty of hot water."
  • Access Fees: Some parks charge additional fees for entry. A camper at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping mentioned, "BEWARE- there is a steep 24% grade getting to the campground."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A reviewer at Fort Yargo State Park Campground said, "Great playground with a sweet stream and lake access."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Georgia Vogel State Park Campground suggested, "The park has a very nice and well-stocked visitor center."
  • Pack for Weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A visitor at Georgia Fort Mountain State Park noted, "The roads are narrow, but in good repair."

Tips from RVers:

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, the campgrounds near Holly Springs, GA, have something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Holly Springs camping areas?

Camping areas around Holly Springs offer varied amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Stone Mountain Park Campground provides both on-site attractions and natural areas to explore, with amenities for various camping styles. Doll Mountain Campground on Carter's Lake features peninsular campsites managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, though campers should note the steep hills and switchbacks. Most campgrounds in the region offer basic amenities like water hookups, restroom facilities, and picnic areas, while state parks typically add shower facilities, dump stations for RVs, and recreational opportunities like hiking trails and water access.

How much does it cost to camp at Holly Springs?

Camping costs in the Holly Springs area vary by campground type and amenities. McKinney Campground on Allatoona Lake, a Corps of Engineers park, offers reasonable rates for sites with lake access and wooded surroundings. Amicalola Falls State Park camping rates reflect its premium location near the 730-foot cascading waterfall. Generally, state park campgrounds in the region charge $30-45 per night for developed sites with water and electric hookups, while primitive sites typically cost $15-25. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds tend to range from $26-35 per night. Many campgrounds offer discounts for seniors, military, and extended stays.

Where are the best campgrounds in Holly Springs?

The Holly Springs area offers several excellent camping options. Don Carter State Park Campground is a standout choice situated at the northern end of Lake Lanier with spacious sites set far apart and some located just yards from the shoreline. For mountain views and cooler temperatures, Fort Mountain State Park Campground provides private wooded campsites that make summer camping more enjoyable, plus good hiking trails nearby. Both parks offer clean facilities and natural beauty that make them top choices in the region.