West Point Lake forms the central feature for camping sites near LaGrange, Georgia, with water-based recreation spanning 525 miles of shoreline. Most campgrounds in this region sit at approximately 635 feet above sea level, creating gentle slopes to the water's edge that accommodate easy boat and kayak launches. The camping season typically runs March through October, though water levels fluctuate throughout the year due to dam management.
What to do
Lake exploration from your campsite: At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, many sites offer direct water access for personal watercraft. "We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water," reports one camper who appreciated the late 3pm checkout policy.
Birding on established trails: Amity Campground features a nature trail leading to marsh areas with installed nest boxes. "The Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail goes thru the park which is a great hike. Lots of wildlife to see," notes one regular visitor who spent two weeks at the campground.
Hiking options for all abilities: Several campgrounds connect to hiking networks with varying difficulty levels. At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, "Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area," with trails suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
What campers like
Lake access without crowds: West Point Lake offers water recreation without the congestion of more popular lakes. "West point lake is a great place to fish, swim, and yes even boat, but what we enjoy the most about this place is that you can fully enjoy water skiing, Jett skiing, but you can also enjoy a nice paddle in a kayak or canoe, it is never over crowded and it's numerous coves make for pretty safe swimming."
Consistent cell service: Unlike more remote camping areas, most LaGrange area campgrounds maintain usable connectivity. At Whitetail Ridge Campground, "We have been looking for a water view, with cell phone signal, in order to be able to work from the camper. Bingo! We are at camp site 35, which is in a cove and I'm not complaining of working from the hammock, overlooking West Point!"
Winter camping options: While most Corps of Engineers campgrounds close seasonally, some sites remain open year-round. "Water and power year round even in winter. Some spots are a little closer than others but most have woods in between so they are somewhat private. The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks."
What you should know
Gate closure enforcement: Several campgrounds strictly enforce access hours. "The gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity."
Bathroom quality varies significantly: Facility conditions can differ dramatically between campgrounds. At Holiday Campground, one visitor noted that "The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal— rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary."
Water levels affect shoreline: Dam management means water levels can change substantially throughout the season. "The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks," reports one winter camper who enjoyed the exposed shoreline for exploration.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with natural playgrounds: Some lakefront sites provide natural entertainment for children. "We had spot 96 and we tent camped. The spot was recommended in another review and it was wonderful. Right beside the water so the kids were able to play in the water most of the time. My family enjoyed it and it was our first camping trip."
Bike-friendly loops: Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children on bikes. "Kids on bikes seemed to be having a ball, mostly relaxing and if your into fishing for adults. Lake sites are huge and well spaced out with plenty of shade and privacy, others seemed packed in."
Playgrounds and scavenger hunts: Holiday Campground offers organized activities for children during peak season. "We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing. We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds offer a mix of site qualities and sizes. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake, please do like all campgrounds all sites are not created equal. Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem."
Power capacity considerations: Some sites have limited electrical capacity for larger rigs. "30 amp circuit was not adequate. The breaker continually tripped while using small kitchen appliances." Check specific campground power ratings before booking.
Group camping availability: For multiple RVs traveling together, specialized group sites exist. "We had one of the group sites that had 10 spots total, and used the 5 trailer sites. Our whole family camped out there and enjoyed the close proximity to each other's site. They're right across from a larger shower house on one side and the waters edge on the other."
