Little Tallapoosa Park provides multiple camping options beyond its dedicated equestrian section. Located in Carrollton, approximately 30 miles west of Kingston, Georgia, this county park sits at an elevation of roughly 1,000 feet and spans multiple sections designed for different camping experiences. The park features three distinct camping areas, with Section 1 for tents and pop-ups, Section 2 for full hookup RV camping, and Section 3 dedicated to equestrian users.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Little Tallapoosa Park offers numerous paved and unpaved paths suitable for all skill levels. "Plenty of trails to walk/bike on," reports Jason D., who enjoyed the solitude of the tent camping area. The park includes both nature trails and paved pathways that accommodate families with strollers or those seeking more accessible routes.
Splash park activities: During summer months, the park operates a splash park area for children. "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," shares Andy M., who stayed at site 11 with full hookups. This water feature provides a refreshing option for families during Georgia's warmer months.
Fishing opportunities: Coleman Lake Rec Area offers productive fishing in its lake. "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," reports Jason G. The recreation area provides access points along the water for anglers of various skill levels and includes boat access for non-motorized or trolling motor boats only.
Spelunking adventures: Near Sawmill Lake Campsite, visitors can explore underground cave systems. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," notes Lisa, who purchased a $15 permit to access both the caves and rock climbing areas.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouse facilities at Little Tallapoosa Park receive consistent praise from visitors. "Friendly neighbors, nice comfort station with bathrooms, showers, laundry and a little free library," mentions Danna D., who appreciated the well-maintained amenities and the thoughtful addition of a book exchange area for campers.
Affordability: Campgrounds in this region offer good value compared to more commercial operations. "Great price for full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered," notes Swain K. about Little Tallapoosa Park. Other campsites like Hickey Gap provide free camping with basic amenities.
Creek-side camping: Water proximity ranks high among camper preferences. "There are 5 sites in all. It was a Monday in August, and there were two spots available," reports Mike H. about Hickey Gap, adding, "This was a beautiful little spot next to a creek." The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience while providing natural cooling during warmer months.
Secluded atmosphere: Jacks River Fields Campground offers exceptional privacy for those seeking solitude. "The first time we camped here, we were the only ones at the whole site," shares Liz B., who noted the low-key atmosphere even when other campers were present.
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Coleman Lake Recreation Area operates from March through December, with varying amenities available depending on the season. During peak periods, particularly holidays, campgrounds fill quickly.
Permit requirements: Some recreational areas require permits for activities. At Sawmill Lake Campsite, a permit costing approximately $15 grants access to both rock climbing areas and cave exploration. "The permit was 15 dollars to access Rock Town and the Caves," confirms Lisa, who planned to return specifically for spelunking.
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds involves navigating unpaved or challenging roads. "The road up there is all rock/dirt with a several hundred foot drop-off on the right side and no guardrail. There were a few hairpin turns," warns Mike H. about reaching Hickey Gap, noting their front-wheel-drive vehicle "struggled to get back up it" on departure.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at several campgrounds. "There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box," notes Mike H. about Hickey Gap facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose tent-specific camping areas: Little Tallapoosa Park organizes camping by user type, benefiting families with young children. "I love the separate tent & RV campsites. The tent sites are decent size and there is some wooded space between each one so it felt quiet and semi-private," shares Sarah F., though she cautions about needing to "move a lot of golfball-size rocks out of the way to set up our tent."
Consider accessibility needs: For families with small children or strollers, paved trails provide important accessibility. "Super quiet, lots of trails to follow - including paved ones (bonus for us as we have a baby in a stroller), full hook ups (w,e,s)," notes Tiffany D., highlighting Little Tallapoosa Park's family-friendly infrastructure.
Look for playgrounds: Mountain Cove Resort and several other campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a Beach area and playground in the day use area," shares Lisa W. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area, pointing out amenities that provide entertainment options for younger campers.
Plan for connectivity limitations: Cell service varies dramatically between campgrounds, affecting family emergency planning. "There is no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road," reports Evan S. about Coleman Lake, while Nathan T. notes Mountain Cove Resort has "no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for equestrian camping: When seeking equestrian camping near Kingston, Georgia, consider overflow options during busy periods. "We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water," explains Hollis K., who found Little Tallapoosa Park's Section 3 accommodated their needs despite lacking sewer hookups.
Full hookup availability: For RVers requiring complete services, Little Tallapoosa Park's Section 2 provides full hookup sites that accommodate larger rigs. "Sites are nice we were at site 11 pull thru with full hook up," confirms Andy M., who particularly valued the combination of hookups and recreational amenities for family members.
Road navigation challenges: RVers should research access routes carefully when visiting more remote campgrounds. "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S. about reaching Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Sun exposure considerations: Some campgrounds lack shade for RV sites. "This campground is side by side hook ups. Not a tree one in the site area," cautions Sarah H. about Mountain Cove Resort, noting the "beautiful view of the mountain" but full sun exposure throughout the day.
Traveler
