Tent camping opportunities around Menlo, Georgia include numerous dispersed sites across the northwestern corner of the state. The region sits at the southern end of the Cumberland Plateau with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,900 feet. Most camping areas experience mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and humid summers where nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 65°F.
What to do
Rock climbing at Rocktown: Located near Sawmill Lake Campsite, this area offers excellent bouldering opportunities. "A free, primitive camping site just a short 5 min drive (or walk) from the Rocktown trailhead. The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers," notes Abigail P.
Explore caves: The Crockford-Pigeon Mountain area contains notable cave systems. "It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," writes Michael M. about Blue Hole Dispersed Camping.
Water activities: Some sites offer river access for swimming or paddling. "On top of the campground, they also have access to the river for swimming and kayak launching. They also rent out pedal and motor bikes for exploring the parkway along the canyon," mentions Asher K. about Little River Adventure Company.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the sense of isolation at certain campgrounds. "My wife and I love coming to this campground, the host is fantastic and very accommodating. It's completely different than any other campground we've been to in the sense that the campsites are secluded and private," shares Dakota F. about Little River Adventure Company.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers enjoy the no-cost sites. "Great FREE spot! We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size," reports Ava R. about Blue Hole Dispersed Camping.
Natural settings for stargazing: Low light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "It's definitely a good place to camp with privacy. The camp sites are a good distance away from each other too! We drove the service road and it had some decent views!" states Ally J. about Hidden Creek.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. "The road to them was poorly kept. 'Bathhouse' advertised was a freezing shed with a horse trough as a shower that was a quarter mile from all of the sites," warns Sam O. about Little River Adventure Company.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for camping. "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve," advises Sarah H.
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities entirely. At Hidden Creek Campground, "GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is... LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES," cautions Robyn W.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water features: Kids enjoy swimming areas during warmer months. "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. Our kids were amazed by the water access and walking trails," shares Lonni B.
Consider locations with facilities: Some sites offer basic amenities better suited for families. "We pulled in and nothing was labeled. Campsites were not labeled or assigned and road to them was poorly kept," notes a reviewer at Little River Adventure Company.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations can create significant day-night temperature differences. "Nights turned a bit chilly, so make sure to pack layers if camping in the fall or winter season," advises a camper at Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Many roads leading to best tent camping near Menlo have clearance issues. "If you come in summer when it's busy, I would recommend going to the first open field when you enter which is to the right. I decided to go all the way back down the gravel road to the back and every spot was taken," suggests Mitchell M.
Generator considerations: Not all sites permit generators. "Stayed 13 days. I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. There were a few people that stayed in a tent for a night or two here and there, but I didn't see any other RV/Campers so every spot was open," reports Sierra Y.
Limited hookups: No sites in the immediate area offer full hookups. "We absolutely love this campground. Its peaceful and right by the water! The market is a plus too!" says Charity G. about Yellow Creek Falls Fish Camp.
