Best Campgrounds near Jefferson, GA

Established campgrounds surround Jefferson, Georgia, providing varied options for outdoor stays across northeast Georgia. Fort Yargo State Park, located 16 miles southwest in Winder, serves as a central camping destination with tent sites, RV hookups, and yurts along the lakeshore. Other options include Georgia RV Park (formerly Country Boys RV Park) in Commerce, Don Carter State Park near Gainesville, and Stone Mountain Park Campground. Most established sites offer electrical hookups and water access, with several providing sewer connections for RVs. The region features a mix of state parks and privately operated campgrounds within 30 minutes of Jefferson.

Advance reservations are highly recommended at most developed campgrounds, particularly for weekend stays during peak seasons from March through October. Water and electric hookups are standard at most campgrounds, though full hookup availability varies. Most state parks in the area maintain year-round operations, while some Corps of Engineers sites like Old Federal and Duckett Mill operate seasonally from spring through fall. Georgia's variable climate means summer humidity and occasional thunderstorms should be expected, with milder conditions in spring and fall. Many campgrounds feature waterfront sites that book quickly. "Our site was very level, and pull through. No FHU, but they do have grey water dumps in numerous places in campground," noted one visitor about Fort Yargo State Park.

The camping experience near Jefferson centers around lake activities, with multiple sites situated on Lake Lanier and other waterways. Fort Yargo State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its lakefront camping, hiking trails, and mountain biking opportunities. Campers particularly appreciate the walk-in tent sites that offer more privacy while remaining accessible. "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," remarked one camper. RV-oriented properties like Georgia RV Park provide level sites with full hookups, and their proximity to shopping areas and Interstate 85 makes them convenient for travelers. Most developed campgrounds in the region maintain clean facilities with showers and toilets.

Best Camping Sites Near Jefferson, Georgia (200)

    1. Fort Yargo State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Winder, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 867-3489

    $27 - $275 / night

    "Fort Yargo is in the Winder Ga area and is close to Helen, Jefferson, Athens and Atlanta. Entering the campground is a nice paved road and leads to tent camping, cabins, yurts and RV sites."

    "This is one of the few state parks in Georgia with yurts and also has a great flat biking trail. The lake allows for kayaking and boating and some yurts are actually right on the lake."

    2. Don Carter State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Lula, GA
    19 miles
    +1 (678) 450-7726

    $25 - $225 / night

    "Situated at the far north end of Lake Lanier, this Georgia state park is awesome! One of the best things about it for RV/trailer camping is the huge distance between camp sites!"

    "This Georgia State Park is in Gainesville on the Chattahoochee where it meets up with Lake Lanier.  It was very easy to get to from the Atlanta area. "

    3. Old Federal

    19 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 967-6757

    $20 - $36 / night

    "Our site was walking distance to the bathhouse, playground and swimming."

    "Grounds were great with easy access to the lake."

    4. Georgia RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Commerce, GA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 335-5535

    "This campground is located close to shopping stores and has their own laundry and shower house. It is a nice, clean and seems very well maintained."

    "The bathrooms are extremely nice and the dogs liked the walking area."

    5. Duckett Mill

    18 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 532-9802

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times."

    "Great location on Lake Lanier. The sites are very large and trees between most sites. Lots of water view sites, some have easier lake access from your site than others for our kayaks."

    6. Bolding Mill

    21 Reviews
    Murrayville, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 534-6960

    $20 - $36 / night

    "It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."

    "Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"

    7. Shady Grove Campground

    24 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 205-6850

    $20 - $240 / night

    "This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."

    "If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."

    8. Shoal Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    Buford, GA
    23 miles
    Website

    "There was a nice flat area to set up food, bonfire, chairs, games and to lounge around with family and the dogs. Bathrooms were nice and close to campground, within walking distance."

    "Communication with the main number for the campground went through the Margaritaville Campground nearby. Separate direct lines to the camp office and security were provided after arrival."

    9. River Forks Park & Campground

    11 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    20 miles
    Website

    "The bathrooms were close to the site. We had a great family time here!! Deer were roaming thru the campsite.. so many!! I loved the fresh Georgia air and the atmosphere was just so relaxing!!"

    "Overall a nice and quite campground on Lake Lanier that’s not a COE campground. Easy to navigate and locate the sites. All have water views, picnic tables, fire pits, and grills."

    10. Stone Mountain Park Campground

    91 Reviews
    Stone Mountain, GA
    38 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."

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Recent Reviews near Jefferson, GA

1239 Reviews of 200 Jefferson Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • paul Z.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sadlers Creek State Park Campground

    Nice lake campground

    Awesome views over lake Hartwell. Nice sized sites, could be a little more level. Needed to slightly block up rear of out class A to get level. Stairs down to the water right next to our site so easy access to our canoe. We will camp here again. 50A power and water at site. Dump station near the exit. ATT phones worked well. Greenville TV stations OTA easily received. Awesome sunrises and sunsets

  • paul Z.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    Small and nice, Great place for quiet

    Large sites in a wooded area. Plenty of room with pull through and back in sites. Older campground but serene with great hiking trails and awesome scenery. We live very close to this park yet this was the first time camping here. This was the trial run for our latest rig so basically a shakedown cruise. The campsite was fairly level and with forest off the door side of the Camper. Only 30 A power here so we had to watch what we were running electrically. They did have 2 30A outlets but at this time we did not have the double 30 to 50 amp adapter. We will be staying here again whenever we want a quick weekend getaway.

  • Ethan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Tugaloo State Park Campground

    Extremely crowded

    This campground was not fully booked, yet most campsites were maxed out with people in each one so it felt extremely busy with lots of partying-like noise. Lots of vehicle/ golf cart/ sxs traffic throughout grounds and past our campsite at all hours. Only a few campsites offer a little bit of privacy, most have none. Lots of pictures that show waterfront property can be deceiving. Bathrooms were big and very clean, and all staff were friendly.

  • Jacquelyn I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Chattooga River Lodge and Campground

    Connect with nature

    This was my first stop traveling and my converted short bus. I have been here before so I felt super comfortable being here. But I have never can’t. I am at campsite six which is perfect for a smaller rig or take camping. It’s right along the creek and very private with a short walk to the bathhouse. Through a fun trail you can make it to the lodge. This campground is surrounded by many places to hike and scenic waterfalls. It’s a must stay. The owners Mat and Teresa are amazing.

  • 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!

  • G F.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Overpriced

    Like some of the other privately managed Georgia state parks, our visit here was disappointing.

    The issues started at the welcome center. The RV parking area was full of cars, even though plenty of regular parking spots were open. When we mentioned it to staff, the response was dismissive — one employee told us, “that’s above my paygrade.”

    The restroom at the welcome center was also a low point. The toilets are stainless steel with no seats — the kind you’d expect to see in a jail — and designed so shallow that whether you sit or hover, you end up getting splashed. It’s an unpleasant and unsanitary setup.

    The campground itself felt neglected, with rotting picnic tables and a general lack of upkeep. It’s also isolated from the rest of the park — there isn’t even a connector trail from the camping area to a single hiking trail, which makes it feel cut off from the very amenities most people come for. At $60 a night, you’d expect at least a basic map of the trails and amenities, but instead you’re told to snap a photo of a cardboard display. That felt like corner-cutting.

    One memorable (and concerning) part of the stay was the bear activity. In September, several bears came through the campground, startling tent campers who had to retreat inside their cars for safety.

    All in all, while the natural setting of Amicalola Falls is beautiful, the way the park is managed left the overall experience underwhelming and, at times, frustrating.

  • austin C.
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Corbin Creek Tray Mountain

    Great camping as of September 2025

    Very nice area to camp saw multiple sites throughout the road. Weather got a little cooler at night but the stars were a beauty to see. managed to fit 3 tents and 2 hammocks at the campsite near 34°50'26.3"N 83°40'44.6"W Wood was a little wet as it had rained 2 days prior so might be worth bringing your own.

    Also worth it if you're into astrophotography as all of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia.

    Did not see any signs of large predators but did see lots of spent 12GA shells and other casings.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Corbin Creek Tray Mountain

    Best off grid camping

    This is by far my favorite place we’ve been off grid camping. It’s more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles, to get a spot down by the creek. But it is possible to get a full size 4*4 truck down the switch back.


Guide to Jefferson

Camping near Jefferson, Georgia, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning landscapes and plenty of activities, it’s a great place for families and friends to enjoy nature together.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “The hike to the base of the Gorge is strenuous with LOTS of stair steps back up but if you can do it, certainly worth it.”
  • Swimming: At Tugaloo State Park Campground, you can enjoy swimming at the beach area. A camper shared, “The lake is right across the way from us for some beautiful views, nice beach swimming and parking the boat.”
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Fort Yargo State Park Campground, have lakes where you can fish. One reviewer said, “I wasn't able to get on a raft this time, yet saw many enjoying the fishing and lake.”

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Vogel State Park Campground noted, “The park is very clean and well maintained.”
  • Friendly staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Don Carter State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, “Clean and well-maintained including the facilities.”
  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground said, “The views are amazing.”

What you should know:

  • Site spacing: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to.”
  • Access fees: Be prepared for additional fees at some parks. For example, at Stone Mountain Park Campground, there’s a $20 parking fee on top of the campsite rate.
  • Limited hookups: Some campgrounds, like Vogel State Park Campground, do not have sewer hookups. A camper noted, “The roads are narrow, but in good repair.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds that offer family-friendly activities. At Tugaloo State Park Campground, one family enjoyed, “The campground has awesome activities through the summer for the kids and for families.”
  • Choose spacious sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Don Carter State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites were good size with a nice view of the lake.”
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Amicalola Falls State Park Camping shared, “The campground was neat, clean, and quiet.”

Tips from RVers:

Camping around Jefferson, Georgia, has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Jefferson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Jefferson, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 200 campgrounds and RV parks near Jefferson, GA and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Jefferson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Jefferson, GA is Fort Yargo State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 41 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Jefferson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Jefferson, GA.

What parks are near Jefferson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Jefferson, GA that allow camping, notably Lake Sidney Lanier and Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.