Located about 15 miles west of downtown Atlanta, Mableton offers campers convenient access to Lake Allatoona and the Chattahoochee River. The area maintains moderate temperatures through most seasons, though summer months often reach highs in the 90s with elevated humidity. Winter camping is practical at many locations as temperatures rarely drop below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Hiking historical trails: At Sweetwater Creek State Park, trails wind alongside creek waters with viewpoints of the historic mill ruins. "We took the trail that shows you where they built the mill then goes along the river for a while. It was a beautiful hike but definitely challenging since there are a lot of rocks you have to climb over," notes Asher K. about Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground.
Water activities: Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular at Lake Allatoona. "Watercraft rentals and fishing galore. Little crowded for my liking but not surprising with Atlanta so close," says Shelly S. about Sweetwater Creek State Park.
Photography opportunities: Many parks feature scenic landscapes. "This park has some great hiking solo or in groups. Beautiful area and you can capture some great photos!" according to Jeane R. at Chattahoochee Bend State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds near Mableton maintain well-kept bathhouses. "The shower house was clean and well maintained also has laundry facilities," notes Terri P. about Clark Creek North Campground.
Affordable glamping options: Glamping close to Mableton, Georgia includes multiple price points. "One with Nature Glamp Camp offers amenities including top tier linens, mobile power units, lighting, movie projector, movie speaker and yes a wood burning stove in your tent," says Sean S. about One with Nature Glamp Camp.
Private sites: Many locations offer decent site separation. "Most sites have water and electric. A few have full hook ups. Sites are large and well placed. Many sites with lakeview to choose from," explains Susan H. about McKinney Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways. "It is close to I-75 and US 41, but it is in the woods, so some of the highway noise is muffled, only some!" advises Joel R. regarding COE Allatoona Lake Old Highway 41 No 3 Campground.
Security measures: Gates typically close at specific hours. "The gate is open from 7 AM until 10:30 PM. NO ONE gets in after hours!" notes Joel R. about Old Highway 41 Campground.
Limited tent camping options: While glamping opportunities near Mableton are expanding, traditional tent sites can be scarce. "Beautiful campground with great hiking. I wish there were more tent sites," mentions Virginia W. about Sweetwater Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several lakeside campgrounds have swimming areas. "We spent a weekend here in section O. It was a nice, spacious campsite with a nice picnic table and partial view of the lake even though we didn't have 'lake view' site," explains Tonya B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Playground availability: Many parks have designated play areas for children. "The campground offers everything you would ever need. 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. about Stone Mountain Park.
Transportation options: Some larger parks provide shuttle service. "They have free transportation within the park/campground area. Helpful staff too," notes Harvey B. regarding Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Various campgrounds require different leveling preparations. "Backing in was not difficult even though we had to raise the right tire 3" to be level," explains Erin C. about Bald Ridge Creek.
Campground navigation: Roads within some parks can present challenges. "Roads are narrow and asphalt sites are narrow. But beautiful views of the lake," shares Maggie C. about Old Highway 41 Campground.
Hookup details: Electric and water connections vary between sites. "Our site was 38 and had a brand new huge picnic table. It also had a fire ring, though I was told I could use my own portable fire pit. There was a very clean, well-equipped sanitary dump station," reports Jane B. about McKinney Campground.
