The Mount Airy camping region sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The area experiences moderate seasonal variations with daytime summer temperatures averaging 85°F while spring and fall bring milder conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Winter camping near Mount Airy remains viable at lower elevations, with Lake Russell Recreation Area maintaining accessibility when higher elevation campgrounds close for the season.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Lake Russell Recreation Area offers several easy hiking trails directly from the campground. "There's plenty of dispersed picnic area for day use. I saw some signs that said horses could use one of the hiking trails so that's cool," notes one visitor to Lake Russell Recreation Area.
Waterfall exploration: The region contains multiple waterfall destinations within short driving distance of Mount Airy. A visitor to Raven Cliff Falls states, "Raven Cliff Falls trail is a 2.5 miles hike that ends at a breathtaking waterfall, but the trail doesn't quite end there. Once you arrive at the falls there's plenty of room to roam the dozens of rock structures."
Mountain views: Some campgrounds provide elevation advantages for scenic outlooks. At Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground, the highest state park in Georgia, campers enjoy significant elevation. "In the summer when there are leaves and green on all the trees, it's breathtaking with the views. Once the leaves fall off, it's a bit spooky (my interpretation) and can get windy without the leaves," explains one reviewer.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds offer sites directly adjacent to flowing water. At Currahee RV Park, located 15 minutes from Mount Airy, "We had a little deck that was perfect to back our toy hauler up to and open the back. I loved sitting on the deck with our dogs, tea, and a good magazine. We loved it so much we stayed an extra day."
Lake access: Multiple camping options provide direct water access for swimming and fishing. "We stayed at site 7 which is a pull through. We had camper and extra car with boat and kayak and fit with a little extra room. Able to kayak right from campsite," reports a visitor to Tugaloo State Park Campground.
Wilderness seclusion: For those seeking quieter experiences, several campgrounds offer more isolated options. At Raven Cliff Falls, "There are a ton of secluded backwoods camping spots tucked off the forestry road that connects you to the trail... and we were right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night."
What you should know
Cellular connectivity: Many campgrounds in the region have limited or no cell service. At Lake Russell Recreation Area, one camper mentions: "I have Verizon and I had one bar here. Enough to send/receive a text but that's about it."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in many of the wilderness areas around Mount Airy. A Raven Cliff Falls visitor warns, "We were visited by a bear two of the nights. The bear took our neighbors dog food they forgot to pack out. So pack out all food items and trash or hang a bear bag."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate on first-come basis. "First loop is first come first serve, with sites closer to the beach side of lake. However, the reserved sites on 2nd loop are more private and some offer good lake views," explains a Lake Russell camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for lakefront options: Family-friendly sites with water access provide built-in entertainment. At Don Carter State Park Campground, "We love this camp ground! Its fairly new, probably under 12 years, and everything is so clean and well taken care of... We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well."
Choose parks with facilities: When camping with children, parks with more amenities can make the experience easier. At Unicoi State Park & Lodge, "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp."
Select accessible trails: Find campgrounds with appropriate hiking distances for young explorers. "We took our 19, 11, and 4 year old. Tested the trails and enjoyed plenty of scenic views," writes a visitor to Tallulah Gorge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain have uneven sites. A visitor to River Falls at the Gorge notes, "The only reason I don't give them 5 stars is almost every lot is tight and they are not level."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight roads unsuitable for larger rigs. At Black Rock Mountain State Park, "Getting to the campsites is pretty tight but once you are parked, it is just beautiful overlooking the lake. Lots of fun for families who enjoy the water."
Utility placement: The positioning of hookups can present challenges at some sites. At Currahee RV Park, one camper mentions: "Only issue with the site is that the sewer drain is much higher than the pad and camper."
