Best Campgrounds near Duluth, GA

Campgrounds near Duluth, Georgia encompass a mix of state parks, county recreation areas, and private RV facilities situated along Lake Lanier and within the surrounding woodlands. Stone Mountain Park Campground, approximately 15 miles southwest of Duluth, stands as one of the region's most developed campgrounds, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts. The area's camping landscape extends northward to Lake Lanier, where Shady Grove Campground and several Corps of Engineers facilities provide waterfront access. Most established campgrounds in the region accommodate both RV and tent camping, with several locations also featuring cabin rentals and glamping options.

Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when Lake Lanier becomes a popular destination for boaters and swimmers. The camping season generally runs year-round at Stone Mountain and select private RV parks, while county-managed facilities like Shady Grove operate seasonally from March through November. A camper noted, "This park is in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see. Or just relax and soak up mother nature's beauty." Cell service remains reliable throughout most developed campgrounds, though visitors should expect limited coverage at some lakeside locations. Most campgrounds feature paved access roads suitable for larger vehicles, with Fort Yargo State Park and Lake Lanier sites typically offering the most level parking pads.

Waterfront sites at Lake Lanier campgrounds consistently receive positive feedback, with several visitors highlighting the views and wildlife viewing opportunities. At Shady Grove Campground, tent sites occupy a separate loop from the RV-focused areas, offering more privacy and direct lake access. As one reviewer described their lakeside site, "Our site had a beautiful view of the water and awoke to sun on the water. Very few mosquitos and lovely weather." The region's mixed-use campgrounds typically feature modern bathhouses with hot showers, though amenities vary significantly between public and private facilities. Fort Yargo State Park, located about 30 minutes east of Duluth, offers extensive recreational options including hiking trails, boat rentals, and yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.

Best Camping Sites Near Duluth, Georgia (144)

    1. Stone Mountain Park Campground

    92 Reviews
    Stone Mountain, GA
    13 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."

    "One of the best camping areas in Georgia."

    2. Bald Ridge Creek

    23 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 889-1591

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"

    "It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."

    3. Shady Grove Campground

    24 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    15 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."

    4. Shoal Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    Buford, GA
    13 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."

    5. Fort Yargo State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Winder, GA
    24 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."

    6. Old Federal

    19 Reviews
    Oakwood, GA
    19 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."

    7. Jones RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Norcross, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 923-0911

    "It’s pretty close to the highway so at night you can hear the cars. Everyone is really nice, neighbors help each other if needed, and it’s very quiet too."

    "You are close to highway so you here some road noise but it’s still pretty quiet."

    8. Sawnee

    7 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 887-0592

    $20 - $46 / night

    "As for us we are avid hikers so we stuck to the trails. There are a few trails that interconnect so we hike for hours(which we loved). Although we did not camp we are definitely coming back to do so."

    "On a peninsula this little gem on Lake Lanier, with wooded lots, is the perfect relaxation spot for RV & Tent campers."

    9. Twin Lakes RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 887-4400

    "The offices closes at 6:30, but if you don’t get there on time like we did they leave your reservation info outside the door."

    10. Margaritaville

    6 Reviews
    Lake Sidney Lanier, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (470) 323-3486

    $63 - $100 / night

    "We had a pave site full hookup pull thru with lake view. Very easy to get in and out, private and quiet, we had a picnic table, fire ring and bbq grill."

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Recent Reviews near Duluth, GA

917 Reviews of 144 Duluth Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • Brittany B.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Great view of the Lake

    The campsite was right next to the swimming beach so little to no privacy and very loud. Although I slept very well in my tent because Quiet hours were observed. It was nice waking up to view of Lake Allatoona. Lady at the gate was rude when checking in so make sure to “READ the sign!” Other than that bathrooms were clean and they have laundry and hot water showers. Will most likely be back!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Winding Waters RV Resort

    Labor Day Weekend Glamping

    We booked Friday through Sunday of Labor Day weekend. We arrived after hours on Friday, and our check-in packet was prepared and ready for us when we arrived. No problems checking in and getting hooked up.

    The RV park is enormous, new and extremely well-kept. Our spot was next to the Etowah River and was one of the few that is on gravel and not concrete. The few gravel lots are among the quietest of this very busy place.

    There are plenty of things to do for a family...lazy river pool, pickle ball, etc. There are kids, electric scooters, electric everything flying around the park morning to evening. It's not necessarily a problem so long as you know what to expect. This is a less quiet place than many others that we have stayed at.

    Lots of investment in 5G WiFi towers, but WiFi is not terribly good. I opted to pull out my StarLink for a better, high bandwidth connection.

    My wife and I travel with e-bikes, so we were glad that it was easy to get to southern Cartersville in about 3 miles and to the Cooper's Furnace Day Area also in about 3 miles.

    Overall, and great place as long as you know you're signing up for a pretty active RV resort geared toward lots of family activity. Not particularly quiet. I'll come back... really enjoyed the cleanliness, order and adherence to strict rules.


Guide to Duluth

Camping near Duluth, Georgia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while having access to various amenities.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the beautiful 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."
  • Water Activities: At Don Carter State Park Campground, you can enjoy swimming and fishing. A camper noted, "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there’s even a canoe trail!"
  • Family Events: Check out seasonal activities at Stone Mountain Park Campground. One reviewer shared, "In October, there are different activities for the kids, like Fall fest and Halloween parade."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Site Size and Privacy: Some campgrounds have close sites, which may not suit everyone. A camper at Stone Mountain Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are close, so it would not benefit you if you want seclusion."
  • Payment Methods: Be prepared for cash-only payments at some locations. A visitor at High Falls State Park Campground noted, "You need to pay for 1 night in cash only."
  • Additional Fees: Some parks charge extra fees for parking or park access. A camper at Vogel State Park Campground mentioned, "You must pay a $20 parking fee."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family events. One reviewer at High Falls State Park Campground said, "Kids enjoyed the playground."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Fort Yargo State Park Campground shared, "We felt right in place and cozy as a storm came through while on our family camping trip."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at Don Carter State Park Campground noted, "No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have."

Tips from RVers

Camping around Duluth, GA, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for family fun or a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What parks can I visit near Duluth, GA?

The Duluth area offers access to several beautiful parks worth visiting. Buford Dam Park Shelters provides lakeside paths perfect for strolling, picnicking, and enjoying water views, though parking can be limited for oversized vehicles. Fort Yargo State Park offers diverse recreational activities including hiking trails, fishing, and water sports on its lake. Stone Mountain Park, beyond its camping facilities, features numerous attractions including hiking trails around and up the mountain, historical exhibits, and recreational activities. For those willing to drive a bit further, Hard Labor Creek State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails through peaceful Georgia woodlands. Many of these parks have day-use areas with picnic facilities, playgrounds, and nature programs.

Where are the best campgrounds near Duluth, GA?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive from Duluth. Stone Mountain Park Campground is a popular option known for its proximity to Atlanta and the famous Stone Mountain attractions, including hiking trails and the renowned laser show. Another great choice is Don Carter State Park Campground situated on Lake Lanier, offering spacious RV sites with generous spacing between campers. Both provide convenient access to Duluth while offering natural settings and recreational opportunities. For those looking for options slightly further out, McKinney Campground on Allatoona Lake north of Atlanta offers a woodsy setting with lake access.

Are there tent camping options available near Duluth, Georgia?

Yes, several tent camping options are available near Duluth. Three Forks Campground offers beautiful tent sites situated along a creek with good spacing between sites for privacy. The secluded feel makes it popular, so arriving early is recommended as sites can't be reserved in advance. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping provides tent camping near its stunning 730-foot waterfall with access to numerous hiking trails, including a connection to the Appalachian Trail. For those wanting to stay closer to Duluth, Buford Dam Park has areas suitable for tent camping with access to Lake Lanier, though it tends to be popular and can get busy during peak seasons.

What amenities are available at campgrounds near Duluth?

Campgrounds near Duluth offer varying levels of amenities to accommodate different camping styles. Bolding Mill features lakeside sites with water access, clean facilities, and reservable spaces. Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground provides well-maintained facilities with convenience to nearby towns for supplies. Many campgrounds in the area offer water hookups, toilets, and shower facilities. Some like Atlanta West Campground cater more to long-term stays with full hookups. For RV campers, several options including Jones RV Park and Twin Lakes RV Park provide big-rig-friendly sites with water connections. Margaritaville on Lake Lanier offers upscale amenities for those seeking more comfort, while state parks typically provide a balance of natural settings and basic services.