Lake Allatoona forms the backdrop for camping near Kennesaw, Georgia, with nearly 12,000 acres of water surrounded by forested shorelines. The region sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, with peak season running April through October.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Mckinney Campground, campers can catch multiple fish species right from their sites. "We love to fish and we always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," notes Robin M.
Hiking through historic ruins: The trails at Sweetwater Creek State Park lead to Manchester Mill Ruins. "Make sure you go see Manchester Mill Ruins," recommends Mike K., while another visitor mentions "hiking along the river for a while" with "a lot of rocks you have to climb over."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Clark Creek South Campground offers water recreation with easy access. "There are plenty of opportunities to hike, fish and boat," writes one reviewer, while another mentions "my husband and son enjoyed fishing and paddle boarding right behind our site."
Junior Ranger programs: Even during restricted times, families can participate in these educational activities. "Friendly staff, with the Jr ranger program still going with the help of adult campers during covid. Still so much fun and so clean and beautiful!!"
What campers like
Lakefront sites: COE Allatoona Lake Old Highway 41 offers direct lake access. "These sites were amazing. Most of the sites are right on the lake. There is an abundance of wildlife around. The water is nice and cool," reports Tracy L H.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses. According to one Clark Creek North Campground visitor, "Shower house is clean and well maintained also has laundry facilities. Hosts are friendly."
Beach swimming areas: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming spots. "The swimming beach, no lifeguard. Pets are allowed with the common rules. Lots of shade," notes a camper at Clark Creek North.
Privacy between sites: Bald Ridge Creek offers well-spaced campsites. "Nearly every site is on the Lake, with access to the water. The sites are very well maintained," writes Pam, while another visitor mentions "Most spots provide complete privacy from your neighbors because of all the trees."
What you should know
Highway noise impacts tent camping: At some locations, highway sounds can be distracting. A Red Top Mountain State Park reviewer cautions, "If you are in a tent... you will hear I-75 traffic all night so keep in mind, that while it looks like country, you are not deep in nature... the drone of the highway will remind you."
Shower availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer full facilities. "There is a dump station near entrance," mentions one Bald Ridge Creek camper, while others note some locations have no showers.
Security concerns at some sites: Take precautions with belongings. A camper at Clark Creek North warns, "After discussing the issue with the campground staff, we were informed that locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground."
Challenging terrain for large vehicles: Some campgrounds have difficult access points. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," reports Brock D.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out kid-friendly amenities: Stone Mountain Park Campground offers numerous activities. "There are tons of things to do from Golf, hiking, zoo, laser show, food and you can hike the mountain or take a ride to the top," shares Holly B.
Choose beach-adjacent sites for easy water play: Clark Creek South provides convenient swimming. "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."
Look for bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Several parks have paved roads ideal for kids learning to ride. "The kids loved riding their bikes around in this great family friendly campground," shares a visitor to Bald Ridge Creek.
Pack insect repellent: Georgia's humid climate supports many bug species. "My teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth," reports one Amicalola Falls visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Amicalola Falls State Park has challenging terrain. "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper."
Reserve level sites when possible: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "A lot of sites are water front, that's a plus. But it is so close to i75 that the sound of traffic is constant," notes Adriana C.
Consider hookup locations: Some sites have inconvenient utility placement. "The electric pole is 150+ feet away near the parking area. You probably could run 175 feet of electric extension cord... but it would have to run past the three other sites... so don't plan for electric," warns one reviewer about tent sites at Red Top Mountain.
Watch for steep dump station approaches: Some facilities present challenges for larger rigs. "They have an interesting dump station set up where you climb a fairly steep hill. This station would be good for shorter rigs," cautions a visitor to Clark Creek North.
