North Georgia's glamping destinations around Murrayville sit in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating moderate summer temperatures compared to lower-lying areas. The landscape features mixed hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and pine that provide natural screening between many camping areas. Most developed campgrounds in the region experience high occupancy during fall foliage season (October-early November) when temperatures average 50-70°F.
What to do
Paddle on Lake Lanier: Lake Lanier provides extensive water recreation at multiple campgrounds like Don Carter State Park, which offers canoe trails and boat access. "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there's even a canoe trail! Campground is well maintained and bath houses are clean," shares Kevan R.
Hike to waterfalls: The Raven Cliff Falls trail offers a 5-mile round trip hike to multiple cascades. A visitor notes, "Raven Cliff Falls trail is a 2.5 miles hike that ends at a breathtaking waterfall, but the trail doesn't quite end there. Once you arrive at the falls there's plenty of room to roam the dozens of rock structures."
Try outdoor activities: Unicoi State Park offers diverse recreation options beyond standard camping. "The lake has a beach, you can rent a kayak or paddle boat. There's a beautiful waterfall and the hikes are amazing! I could have stayed longer!" reports Erin L.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds in the Murrayville area provide wildlife observation opportunities. At Shady Grove Campground, campers report, "We tent camped for about a week, wildlife especially deer was abundant. Playground was close to site. Area was huge and well spaced between sites."
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds feature water access directly from sites. At Jenny's Creek Family Campground, "We choose the walk in as the parking was still really close but there are only two of these sites. The creek runs right next to them and it was so peaceful and beautiful," explains Angela M.
Clean facilities: Many glamping options near Murrayville, Georgia maintain excellent sanitation. A visitor to Vogel State Park commented, "Bathroom/showerhouses are strategically located in each loop. They are modern, bright, well-stocked and clean! Also provided are individual 'family/unisex' bathroom/shower facilities."
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. At Bald Ridge Creek, the camping season typically runs "mid March to mid November," while others like Amicalola Falls remain open throughout winter months.
Alcohol policies: Regulations vary significantly between properties. One camper at Shady Grove noted, "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here... Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00. No warning."
Bear activity: Many north Georgia campgrounds experience wildlife visits. A camper at Unicoi State Park advised, "If you are camping in the tent area, I can almost guarantee you'll see a bear because they come out almost every night. Keep all of your food in the bear boxes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping destinations near Murrayville feature child-friendly amenities. At Amicalola Falls State Park, "Two separate children's playgrounds exist, not too far from one another. One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area."
Indoor alternatives: Some locations provide climate-controlled spaces for children. At Jenny's Creek Family Campground, one visitor shared, "They have a nice playground on site as well as a air conditioned club house they provides a nice break from the heat."
Tent camping considerations: For families using tents rather than glamping cabins, site selection matters. A visitor to Vogel State Park advised, "Had I known about the incredible tent 'walk-in' sites before arrival, I would've stayed there. They are tucked away on their own loop on a wooded hillside."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require effort to position RVs properly. At Amicalola Falls, "I read a lot before my trip, so I knew to except the 25% grade incline going up to the campground. I wasn't however expecting the challenging parking in the campsite."
Asphalt considerations: Some campgrounds feature extensive paving, which affects the camping experience. A Don Carter State Park visitor noted, "Who ever decided that every campsite needed to be asphalt should be hung! This is a newer State Park in Georgia and it could be nice, but it's been paved over. They classify them as RV sites, but they are parking lots."
Dump station congestion: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. At Bald Ridge Creek, "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal."
