Franklin D Roosevelt State Park offers family-oriented camping experiences beyond its equestrian facilities. The park sits at an elevation of 1,395 feet in the Pine Mountain Ridge, with hiking trails that explore both hardwood forests and mountain terrain. Camping areas throughout the park include five main loops with varying levels of privacy and access to amenities.
What to do
Paddling and water recreation: At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground, families can enjoy the lake beyond just viewing it. "Clean and shady sights, fresh water pump and electric at our site... the lake is beautiful and you can rent boats, plus lots of hiking and history around," notes Stephani in her review.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings at lake-adjacent campsites provide opportunities for animal sightings. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, campers report wildlife activity throughout the day and night. "Wildlife is busy here— armadillos, raccoons, and rabbits all feel quite at home on your tent pad," according to Denis P.
Historical exploration: Beyond the Roosevelt connection, the area contains multiple historical sites worth visiting. McIntosh Reserve Park connects campers with regional history. As one camper noted, "Historical sites on the drive in. Great place for family, splash pad in the park."
What campers like
Family activities: Parents appreciate the range of recreation options that keep children engaged. Joshua H. shared about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park: "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing."
Riverside camping: Many campgrounds in the region offer waterfront sites with direct access to rivers. At Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area, "Each of the sites have a raised gravel platform for tents, a grill, trash can, and a fire pit," and campers "had a happy little bonus of getting to watch the beavers play in the river early in the morning."
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, several horse campgrounds near Molena remain open year-round. At Ocmulgee River Camp, winter visitors report: "It was nice and warm even in December! Almost 70 degrees! Spot with a nice horse trail to hike - saw some deer and a mystery black animal, maybe a boar or a bear."
What you should know
Gate restrictions: Several campgrounds lock their gates at night, restricting late arrivals or departures. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, "the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy."
Tent platforms: Several campgrounds feature raised platforms for tent setup. At Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area, "They have a box platform for your tent. It could easily fit my 8 person tent."
Self-registration systems: McIntosh Reserve Park uses a first-come system rather than reservations. "Camping is first come first served basis, no reservations. $20 per night, parking for one vehicle included. Extra vehicles require $5 parking pass per day."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Ocmulgee River Camp, one camper noted, "Peaceful beautiful Verizon works perfectly," while at R. Shaefer Heard Campground, "Verizon was weak over most of the property talk and text ok but data not so much."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When choosing a site at Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, consider proximity to play areas. Joshua H. shared, "We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on."
Water play alternatives: During hot months, several equestrian campgrounds near Molena offer water features beyond swimming. At McIntosh Reserve Park, campers appreciate that they "even do Easter egg hunts every year... They have access to the Chattahoochie River for kayaking and fishing as well."
Child-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with more open spaces and shorter walks to facilities. At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, "There are many sites to choose from and there are plenty of things to do in the area. This park is great for hikers -- lots of great trails. I went with my three kids and we all had a blast."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research specific sites before arrival. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake... Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem."
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds offer late checkout times. One R. Shaefer Heard camper mentioned, "Check in was quick and easy. We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets... Late checkout (3pm) was so nice."
Satellite connectivity challenges: Dense tree cover affects satellite-based internet services. At R. Shaefer Heard, "Starlink users: take note— if the lake is high, the shoreline disappears, and with it, any chance of a clear shot to the sky. Reception through the trees was very poor."
Legend
