Primitive camping options dominate the landscape around Menlo, Georgia, with several areas offering backcountry experiences at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The region's limestone bedrock creates distinctive karst features including caves, sinkholes, and underground streams that influence camping conditions. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, with frequent morning fog in valleys and canyons.
What to do
Cave exploration: 5 miles from DeSoto State Park. DeSoto State Park Campground serves as an excellent base for regional spelunking adventures. "This area of Alabama has numerous outdoor activities. We explored DeSoto falls and went to Little River canyon. There is a canyon rim drive if you can't hike. You must spend some time in this area to explore it all," notes Rachel G.
Rock climbing: Access via Rocktown trailhead. Sawmill Lake Campsite positions climbers minutes from world-class bouldering. "The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers. Meant we could spend most of the climbing, rather than making a long approach," shares Abigail P. The site requires a Georgia outdoors permit, which costs around $60.
Fishing: Stock up on supplies at local stores. Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in stocked lakes and streams. Most require Georgia or Alabama fishing licenses depending on location. "There is a 6 acre lake for fishing but it's catch & release. And no swimming or kayaks allowed," explains Julie H. about Tranquility Campground.
Motorcycle routes: Popular among riders. Several reviewers mention excellent motorcycle riding in the area, particularly along canyon rims. "It's a great starting point for an unbelievable motorcycle ride to ruby falls," reports Gregg T. from Wills Creek RV Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Rare for established campgrounds. Tranquility Campground offers exceptional site separation. "The campground is very wooded and well cared for with separate sites for tent only and RV camping. It has clean and well-maintained bathrooms that are at the top of the hill and there are flowers planted all around," writes Asher K.
Walk-in tent sites: For tent-only peace. Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground provides dedicated walk-in camping areas. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear)... I'm always thrilled to find camping areas where I can have the convenience of my car-but can avoid the noise of RVs," explains Abby M.
Hot showers year-round: Even in primitive settings. Several campgrounds maintain heated shower facilities throughout winter. "Bathroom facilities very clean, well kept with lots of light, heat and hot showers," reports Liz H. about James H. Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Digital detox: Limited connectivity. Most campgrounds have spotty or non-existent cell service. "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid," explains Nathan T. about Mountain Cove Resort.
What you should know
Road conditions: Plan your route carefully. Access to many campgrounds involves narrow, winding mountain roads. "Accessing the campground from the north can be a little bit harrowing as the roads are steep with hairpin curves and somewhat narrow. The route from the south is much easier particularly if you have a large motorhome or a long fifth wheel," advises Bret D. about DeSoto State Park.
Weather preparedness: Temperature shifts. Due to elevation changes, temperature can vary significantly. "My first experience with Cloudland Canyon State Park was on a day hike, and my second was photographing a wedding here--which should set the stage for what type of place this is!" notes Stephanie J.
Reservation limitations: Some sites first-come. Little River Adventure Company allows campers to select their own sites upon arrival. "Giorgio has an amazing set up here. He was super helpful and accommodating. We were in a mini van and were still able to navigate the grounds and dirt road pretty easily. Some of the sites are close together but there's so many to pick from, it's easy to feel like you're the only ones out there!" writes Lonni B.
Wildlife concerns: Food storage essential. Raccoons are particularly problematic in the area. "This campground offers well-shaded, and secluded sites. Beware of the raccoons. They are very clever. I spent a little time raiding their trash stash," warns Jan P. about James H Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Easy hikes: Kid-friendly trails. James H 'Sloppy' Floyd State Park Campground features accessible trails for younger hikers. "Plenty of activities with hiking trails, 2 lakes for fishing, kayaking and paddle boats. Recommend the Marble Quarry hike. Falls were flowing great due to all the rain we had before. Trails around the lakes are nice and easy accessible," shares Liz H.
Year-round activities: Seasonal programming. Area parks offer different experiences each season. "If you're looking for a spot to carry your kids on one of their first trips, this would be the perfect place. They have scout activities, a Junior Ranger program, playgrounds, swimming pools, and plenty of trails to hike... each season offers something different," explains Arden S. about DeSoto State Park.
Playground access: After hiking days. Several campgrounds feature playground facilities. "Great pull through spots and great playground for kiddos... very clean!" reports nikki H. about James H Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Cabin options: For mixed camping groups. Families with members who prefer not to tent camp can find cabin alternatives. "Tent, rv, cabins, chalets, hotel all in one place. Restaurant on premises along with a camp store. Many hiking trails, water falls, close to Little River Canyon," notes Jimmy Teresa L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Leveling challenges. Many RV sites in the area require careful positioning due to uneven terrain. "The sites are a little close together, but we have honestly been to worse places. Our site was number 5 and we had a great little fire pit and plenty of room for the kids to play," advises Brittney P. about Little River RV Park.
Internet access: Critical for remote workers. 1776 RV And Campground offers exceptional connectivity. "The best part is the screaming fast internet! We work from home and the internet was so fast, people were amazed when I told them I was at a campground. We didn't even try to use our 5G system," reports Jason B.
Backup parking plans: Overflow areas. During peak seasons, finding appropriate parking can be challenging. "Sites at park very close together and our dually truck had to be parked sideways in front or back of site," shares Ryan & Lorri R. about Wills Creek RV Park.
Water and power hookups: Limited full-service sites. Most campgrounds offer water and electric, but fewer provide sewer connections. "We stayed here in our 5th wheel for five nights but had to move twice as we couldn't book a spot for the entire weekend. (And a bit annoyingly they charge a separate reservation fee for each 'reservation' but oh well.) We stayed on sites 4, 25 and 31," explains Gerri from DeSoto State Park.
