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Best Tent Camping near Macon, GA

256 Reviews

Dispersed tent camping options surround Macon, Georgia, with multiple primitive sites available in the nearby countryside. Ocmulgee River Camp offers a rustic tent camping experience approximately 15 miles northeast of Macon, while Tyler Hunt Camp provides another dispersed camping alternative within 20 miles of the city. Both locations feature minimal amenities and are situated on public land with drive-in access for tent campers seeking a more primitive experience.

Access to these primitive tent campgrounds varies considerably by location and season. Ocmulgee River Camp features a gravel road that can be bumpy but remains manageable for most vehicles. As one camper noted, "Only a mile off the road, which is a little bumpy but manageable." Most sites lack basic amenities like drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring tent campers to bring all necessary supplies and follow pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles. Fire rings may be available at established sites within these areas, though campers should check for seasonal fire restrictions before planning trips. Cell service can be unreliable at these primitive locations, with some reviews indicating Verizon works well at Ocmulgee River Camp.

These primitive tent sites provide spacious camping areas with natural settings. Tent campers at Ocmulgee River Camp find flat terrain with ample room to set up equipment away from other campers. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer frequently observed and occasional encounters with other forest animals. A review mentioned, "Beautiful campsite, just a few neighbors, tons of flat space and a few fire pits." Tyler Hunt Camp offers a more secluded experience during daylight hours but may experience vehicle traffic after dark. For campers seeking more amenities while still enjoying tent camping, The Hollow at Triple Threat Farm represents an established alternative with drinking water, toilets, and shower facilities available. Most tent sites in the region become quite hot and humid during summer months, making spring and fall preferable seasons for tent camping near Macon.

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Best Tent Sites Near Macon, Georgia (5)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Macon, GA

2 Photos of 5 Macon Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Macon, GA

256 Reviews of 5 Macon Campgrounds

  • Ashley P.
    Apr. 29, 2022

    Ocmulgee WMA Primitive Camping

    Needs fishing license ,hunting license or land pass

    Free to camp for 14 days. Designated campground with no hook ups. Fire rings only. Trash must pack in and pack out. Down the road some is a fishing peir with 24 hour access and bathrooms. No showers and water is not potable at this time but usually is. Kid lake if you find someone who works for the WMA they will teach kids to bass fish for free. Large mouth bass here are catch and release only. We have seen a ton of gators, rabbits, birds, deer and hogs. Grass is high at campground and can only camp on that one side of the road.

  • Rachel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 8, 2020

    High Falls State Park Campground

    Falls

    Went to High Falls State Park in January. site number 27. We stayed 8 nights There are two campgrounds- lakeside and River camping area. Lakeside is by High falls Lake and is closest to the falls. River camping is across the street we stayed in River camping area. Nice sites but open to neighbors. Sites included table, fire ring, lantern hook. Some sites are 30 amp some 50 amp and had some pull through sites. After the weekend we were one of only a few in the campground in January. Weather may change this time of year we had a lot of rain one day and freezing temperatures overnight but mostly it was good camping weather. Camp hosts were awesome!!! This park is not far off i-75. Dollar general was a few miles other than that not much around. Very easy hiking trail to waterfalls and several trails along Towaliga River, ruins of an old Mill. There is no swimming in falls or river. Afterr rain falls were flowing very fast. This park also has a swimming pool, mini golf, yurts, boat rentals all were closed in January. Bathhouses were well maintained and had laundry facilities. Phone and TV reception we're good at this park. 8 days was too much here I would recommend 4 to 5 days or as a stopover point but would definitely return here.

  • Justin R.
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Claystone Park Campground

    First Time Camping and It Set the Bar

    Claystone Park was our first ever experience tent camping. Everything was great from the location of the bathroom and shower house, to ample space, and spectacular views. Quiet hours were respectfully observed, and all the amenities provided within our campsite were more than enough. Clean clean clean

  • Everette G.
    Oct. 18, 2020

    Lawrence Shoals Campground

    Quaint, Rustic Campground, Not Very Tent Friendly

    My wife and I booked site 1 after there was nothing else available, literally, in the entire state. We arrived Friday afternoon, first impression is that the park is extremely well maintained. The hosts were very friendly, and very accommodating after learning that our site actually wasn't suitable for our tent. We moved to site 36, which, unlike site 1, was flat and long enough for our admittedly huge tent. Each site had a grill and either a grated iron fire ring or stone fire ring. The facilities were well maintained although the hardware was fairly dated. There were laundry machines at the facilities as well. The park itself was very quaint and rustic, with some very well maintained trails that catered to both hikers and bikers. There is a very cool rock effigy with a multi story observation tower, and lots of very cool information. It's like an outdoor museum. This campground isn't particularly tent friendly, but it's not a bad option if you want something local or need it as a backup. Definitely choose your site with care if you are in a tent, as not all of the sites are flat or have gravel pads. The campground is far enough from major light pollution to see a good amount of stars in the sky, but they do have huge floodlights at the entrance of the campground. Overall, I'm glad to know that it is there in case we are unable to go to one of our go-to campgrounds, but I wouldn't call it my favorite.

  • Caitlin S.
    Jan. 31, 2022

    High Falls State Park Campground

    Nice campground for a weekend getaway!

    We stayed in the River Camping Area - Loop D. The campground felt secluded and the sites were spacious. We enjoyed hiking Falls Trail with our two dogs and checking out some of the nearby cities - Jackson & Forsyth.

    A few things to note: the internet is VERY spotty and the sites are not level. The entrance is very dark at night and the road is narrow and windy, so try to arrive before dark if you can.

  • N P.
    Aug. 23, 2020

    High Falls State Park Campground

    Good pit stop with trails

    Spent one night on the road here at a RV site on the lakeside camping area (they also offer additional entrance to river side camping.) Busy but courteous neighbors. Playground, mini golf, swimming pool (closed), and pretty clean toilets. Keep that trash far—ants love it here! Nice falls trail hike in the afternoon. Well-marked trails with some fun off shoot paths. Ordered Papa Johns right to the campsite entrance!

  • N
    Sep. 27, 2023

    Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area

    Nice Waterfront View

    Note to future campers: the campground is NOT located at the address provided. This is the recreational park. The campground is actually up the road, on the opposite side of the park, at the entrance of the graveyard.

    This campground is first come, first serve. It is $15 dollars a night. Some of the sites are waterfront. There is a bathroom with a shower that was kept up with and stocked with toilet paper and paper towels. There is also a water spigot near the bathroom and electrical outlets in the bathroom.

    We arrived late at night and didn’t see how to pay for the campground so we just set up but the next morning, the campground manager, Raymond, stopped by to welcome us and take our payment. He was very nice and helpful, keeping up with the grounds and the bathroom, and answering any questions we had.

    We lucked out and got a waterfront site (site 4) due to the fact somebody checked out early. We had a happy little bonus of getting to watch the beavers play in the river early in the morning. Each of the sites have a raised gravel platform for tents, a grill, trash can, and a fire pit.

    The campground was full on Saturday when we arrived but cleared out during the week.

    All in all, we enjoyed our stay and would definitely be back if we ever come back to the area.

    Thanks again, Raymond, for all that you do to keep up with the place and make it an enjoyable experience for campers like us!

    On a final note: this campground is definitely set up for primitive camping, focusing more on tents. We have a 10 foot trailer. We were able to back in to our spot with no problem. The site was not level but that wasn’t a big deal for us in our rooftop tent. We didn’t check out the other sites but an RV would probably have a hard time setting up here.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 6, 2020

    High Falls State Park Campground

    Needs some work

    High falls SP, GA

    Stopped here on an overnight enroute south in September . Weekday and very sparsely occupied, so it was very quiet.

    After seeing both campgrounds I wish I had stayed at the upper one near the lake and dam.

    The lower campground has a coded gate and was in a separate area across the street and down the road. You can hike to the lake/dam area by way of Tranquility Trail (2.5 miles).

    There are basically three areas, (two loops and a circle)with two latrines. The latrine in the circle area had a washer and dryer. I did not go in the other one.

    Several of the sites picnic tables and fire rings sat close together so if you don’t know your “neighbors” you will get to know them.

    The other sites were good size and you have some privacy. There are big grassy area in each loop and it’s all shaded.

    My site was near the river but it’s a somewhat treacherous trail down to water level. The water looked like chocolate milk and was not very inviting. I would guess there had been recent flooding and high water areas. Fishing would have been easy enough.

    The staff was ..... interesting. One of the woman at the check in openly voiced her opinion about a much nicer camping area at another location. Then there was the kamikaze guy on the “golf cart” speeding crazily through the campground. I realize they don’t have speedometers, however he was going faster then 15 mph.

  • Desiree R.
    Aug. 12, 2019

    Crossroads Travel Park

    Ranger Review: Ice Mule Cooler at Crossroads Travel Park

    Campground Review: Right off I75, about 45 minutes south of Macon, is a small campground with lots of energy. We stayed here short term while in between moving in our 5th wheel and it was a great time. They offer lots of discounts, and extended stay rates. I think we paid $480 for a full month, which included the lot rent, water, sewer, and power.

    The spaces are a little small, and a little tough to fit 2 vehicles in, but everyone was friendly and we made it work. They have both pull thru and back in sites, easy access to all of them. Easy in and out, it looks as if they have a few full time campers there as well. Both 30 and 50 amp were available, and they were all paved, so leveling out was super easy.

    They have a pull up station for late nite check in after the office closes and works on an honor system to put your payment in the drop box.

    One of the perks I liked is the pool, its available for campers and their guests, kept very clean, and was never crowded when we visited.

    They do have a shower house and facilities available if needed as well, we however did not use these. [I was told they needed some updating, but again did not personally use them]

    Product review: IceMule Pro in XLarge [33L] As a Ranger for TheDyrt I get to review some really cool products that I get free or can purchase at a discounted price. This time we got an amazing deal on a backpack cooler! OMG amazing! We absolutely love this cooler. It has now become our go-to anytime were going outdoors.

    We decided on the IceMule Pro in XL as we needed to keep 3 days of food cooled while our fridge was being repaired. These coolers come in a variety of sizes, this specific model comes in 23, 33, and 40 Liters. There is a few different styles of coolers available too: Classic, Pro, Boss, Jaunt, Urbano, and Traveler. The classic is simple and had 1 clip on Carry strap, the traveler is more of a duffle bag style, but we wanted a backpack style and went with the Pro, all the other options are backpack straps.

    We selected the grey color, something neutral that wouldn't draw a lot of heat to the bag. They offer a few variations of color for each style of bag.

    This cooler is lightweight, and comfy! Once we added in all our items and clip the straps into place you could wear it for hours.

    I really like the rolling top closure, it's super easy to snap the clasp to keep it shut, and easy to open when you need in. The cooler has an air vent on the side as well to add in or remove unwanted air from the bag. This helps regulate the temperature inside the bag. When I first got the bag I wanted to try it out and ee didnt have ice at first but put stuff in it anyway. A few hours later after we got ice, the drinks were still cold! This to me was amazing! Once we added ice, it stayed sold for over 2 days. Even with us being in and out getting drinks and food.

    We have already decided to get a 2nd smaller one to use for tailgating this fall!

Guide to Macon

Dispersed tent camping near Macon, Georgia offers outdoor enthusiasts access to natural woodland settings within a subtropical climate zone that averages 45 inches of annual rainfall. The surrounding area features a mix of pine forests and hardwood trees with elevation changes between 300-500 feet above sea level. Winter camping provides comfortable daytime temperatures in the 50s-60s°F, making it a popular alternative to summer's intense heat and humidity.

What to do

Wildlife observation opportunities: Look for deer activity early mornings and evenings at Ocmulgee River Camp, where campers frequently spot woodland creatures. One visitor shared their experience: "Saw some deer on a walk. It was quite hot but surprisingly not that buggy."

Horse trail hiking: Access the equestrian paths at Ocmulgee River Camp for day hiking adventures through wooded terrain. A December visitor noted: "Spot with a nice horse trail to hike - saw some deer and a mystery black animal, maybe a boar or a bear - unsure."

Nighttime stargazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at Tyler Hunt Camp, which offers excellent dark sky viewing conditions. According to campers: "It's quiet, super dark at night and beautiful. No amenities, you pack it in, you pack it out."

What campers like

Winter camping comfort: December and January visitors to Tyler Hunt Camp appreciate milder temperatures for comfortable tent camping experiences. One camper reported: "It was nice and warm even in December! Almost 70 degrees!"

Spacious camping areas: Tent campers value the abundance of open flat ground allowing for privacy between sites. As noted about Ocmulgee River Camp: "Very nice a bit bumpy on the drive in but no major holes. Quiet and peaceful 2 neighbors great amount of space to find a nice spot."

Minimalist experiences: The off-grid nature appeals to those seeking true primitive camping. A visitor to The Hollow at Triple Threat Farm commented simply: "Off-grid done right!"

What you should know

Hunting activity awareness: During hunting seasons, campers should be aware of nearby hunting activities at multiple locations. One Ocmulgee River Camp visitor mentioned: "Open spaces and very quiet this time of the year (January) train horn in the distance and gunshots in the distance as well from hunters here and there but all around a great spot to really enjoy."

Nighttime traffic patterns: Some dispersed camping locations experience increased vehicle activity after dark. A Tyler Hunt Camp camper observed: "Expect to have a drive thru at least once around 9/10. It's just a see who is in the area type thing."

Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas may require careful driving but remain passable for most vehicles. About Ocmulgee River Camp, a camper noted: "Nice open camp site with plenty of spots for camping. Only a mile off the road, which is a little bumpy but manageable."

Tips for camping with families

Pack extra water: With no drinking water available at most dispersed camping locations near Macon, families should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during warmer months.

Consider site selection timing: Arrive at Towaliga River Retreat during daylight hours to select the most suitable tent camping spots for family setups, as the 14 available sites vary in size and proximity to amenities.

Wildlife education opportunity: Use the frequent deer sightings at Ocmulgee River Camp as teaching moments for children about local wildlife habitats and behavior. A visitor shared: "There are hunters around and we heard a good deal of shots. Saw some deer on a walk."

Tips from RVers

Limited facility options: Most dispersed camping locations near Macon lack RV hookups, requiring self-contained operation. For tent camping with amenities, consider Piney Hills Campground which offers picnic tables and reservation options.

Cell service considerations: Verizon customers report reliable connectivity at Ocmulgee River Camp, beneficial for RV travelers needing to stay connected. One camper confirmed: "Peaceful beautiful Verizon works perfectly."

Seasonal timing strategy: Plan RV trips to tent camping areas during spring and fall to avoid summer heat and winter hunting activity. Midweek visits typically encounter fewer neighbors compared to weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Macon, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Macon, GA is Ocmulgee River Camp with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Macon, GA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Macon, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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