Tent camping near Mount Berry, Georgia provides access to both developed and primitive camping options across northwestern Georgia and neighboring Alabama. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 600-1,300 feet, creating a diverse landscape of hardwood forests and creek valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping can experience freezing nighttime temperatures from December through February.
What to do
Cave exploration: 5 minutes from Sawmill Lake Campsite where one camper notes it's "just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking. The permit was 15 dollars to access Rock Town and the Caves."
Water activities: Access the river at Little River Adventure Company which offers "access to the river for swimming and kayak launching. They also rent out pedal and motor bikes for exploring the parkway along the canyon," according to one visitor.
Hiking through wilderness areas: The trails near campgrounds provide good day hikes. At Sawmill Lake Campsite, campers appreciate the "plenty of hiking trails, world class rock climbing, etc." Another camper mentions they "discovered more secluded camp sites more suitable for the seclusion I seek when camping."
Disconnecting completely: For those wanting to truly unplug, Serenity Ridge offers a "unique stay offering a secluded off-grid site for you to enjoy a weekend of disconnecting." This can be particularly refreshing after visiting the more developed areas around Mount Berry.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Hidden Creek Campground, campers appreciate that it's "very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here." Another camper mentioned it was "quiet and we were alone so overall we enjoyed."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers enjoy Blue Hole Dispersed in Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA where "camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free. Only 2 sites with tables." Some campers note that "if you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it."
Natural swimming areas: The Blue Hole at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA attracts many campers. One visitor shared that "it has a blue hole and caves, no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good." Another described it as "so peaceful!"
Minimal development: Campers often mention appreciating the lack of infrastructure. At Hidden Creek, a camper noted it has "overall very decent primitive spot" while another called it a "solid free campsite" despite having "a few substantial pot holes."
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Multiple campers warn about difficult access. One Hidden Creek visitor advises: "LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn't too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well."
Limited facilities at most sites: Bring everything you need. At Hurricane Creek Campground, it's described as "a great spot for those looking to disconnect" but offers minimal amenities.
GPS reliability issues: Several campers mention navigation challenges. One Hidden Creek visitor warns: "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."
Permits sometimes required: Check requirements before camping. A Sawmill Lake camper notes: "I think you're technically supposed to have a Georgia outdoors permit to stay here," while another mentions "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with river access: Children enjoy water activities. At Yellow Creek Falls Fish Camp, campers report it's "peaceful and right by the water! The market is a plus too!"
Consider partially-equipped options: Some sites offer more convenience. Serenity Ridge provides "a curated off grid experience" where "You don't need camping gear. A tent or two can be set up, ready for you. Cooler stocked with ice. Firewood stacked by the fire pit."
Check for bathroom access: Not all sites have facilities. Little River Adventure Company has a "bath house (which was very clean and maintained)" though one camper recommends "bringing your own toilet accommodations since you'll probably pick a site further from the bath house."
Choose areas with exploring options: Kids enjoy discovery. One Little River Adventure camper shared: "Our kids were amazed by the water access and walking trails. Our dog was also able to free roam in the spot we picked."
Tips from RVers
Approach direction matters: For mountain sites, consider your route. A Sawmill Lake camper advises: "If you have a trailer or rv I recommend coming in from the west direction. The east way had 180 degree sharp turns up the mountain, so may be difficult."
Length restrictions apply: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller rigs only. A Blue Hole Dispersed visitor managed "3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Leveling can be challenging: Bring leveling blocks. At Warden Station Horse Camp, "ground is unleveled in many places so be careful when picking a spot for your rig. They really could do some more updating but I'll always return for that deep serene connection with nature."
Generator policies vary: Check if generators are permitted. Blue Hole campers note using generators without issues, while other sites prohibit them. One camper at Warden Station noted "there is no cell service but it's totally worth it for the peace and quiet."
