Best Campgrounds near Nelson, GA

North Georgia's foothills surrounding Nelson offer diverse camping experiences within an hour's drive. Amicalola Falls State Park, about 30 miles northeast, features year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts nestled near Georgia's tallest waterfall. Fort Mountain State Park provides wooded campsites at higher elevations, while Doll Mountain Campground on Carter's Lake offers both boat-in and drive-in access. Army Corps of Engineers sites at Lake Allatoona, including Victoria and Sweetwater campgrounds, provide lakefront options with varying levels of amenities. The region balances developed state park facilities with more rustic national forest camping, particularly in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Camping permits and reservation requirements vary significantly by location and season. Many state park campgrounds require advance booking through recreation.gov or the Georgia State Parks reservation system, especially during fall color season and summer holidays. As one camper noted, "Fort Mountain is usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia's summer heat much more enjoyable." Cell service can be limited in mountainous areas, with several reviewers mentioning complete disconnection at Fort Mountain. Bear activity has been reported at multiple campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. The region's humid climate affects camping comfort, with higher elevations offering relief during summer months.

Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, though they often require booking months in advance. Campers frequently mention the peaceful sounds of creeks and streams as highlights of their experience. According to one review of Raven Cliff Falls, "We were right next to Dodd Creek so we had the peaceful sounds of running water to put us to sleep at night." Fall camping draws significant crowds for leaf-viewing, particularly at Fort Mountain where "nice tall pines, maple and oak trees" create spectacular autumn displays. Many campgrounds feature hiking trails directly from campsites, with several offering fishing access. Weekend crowding affects the camping experience at popular destinations, with reviewers recommending weekday visits when possible or arriving early on Fridays to secure preferred sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Nelson, Georgia (411)

    1. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    60 Reviews
    Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 265-4703

    "It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."

    "If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."

    2. Sweetwater Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $290 / night

    "These are two completely different parks in two completely different parts of Georgia. SCofA does not have a mill, ruins, river or mountain trails. It does have a lake. Allatoona Lake."

    "Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc."

    3. Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Emerson, GA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 975-0055

    $40 - $315 / night

    "Many were positioned right on the lake. The trails in the park were great for hiking and running. We enjoyed visiting the Qualusi Winery that was nearby."

    "Our site I believe was 51 and steps away from The water. Easy check in and friendly staff."

    4. Bald Ridge Creek

    23 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 889-1591

    $26 - $36 / night

    "Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"

    "It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."

    5. Doll Mountain Campground

    22 Reviews
    Talking Rock, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 276-4413

    $26 - $100 / night

    "Doll Mountain Campground near Ellijay, Georgia is located on a peninsula stretching into Carter's Lake, and managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. "

    "The sites are tucked into the trees, lots of great spots for your hammock! We stayed at a walk-in site, but were still close to a pit toilet and our car."

    6. Shady Grove Campground

    24 Reviews
    Cumming, GA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 205-6850

    $20 - $240 / night

    "This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."

    "If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."

    7. Diamond Lure Campground

    7 Reviews
    Ellijay, GA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 273-3075

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Upon driving up, you see the office and the big lake behind it and it’s breathtaking. There’s a little beach to swim in or go fishing, etc."

    "We found this place by mistake looking at another location close by. This is a wonderful little place. Sites are adequate and bath houses are clean. We already booked another trip."

    8. Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    Chatsworth, GA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 422-1932

    $14 - $55 / night

    "Its usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia’s summer heat much more enjoyable. Good hiking and things to do nearby."

    "There's nice trails in the park one around the lake & one to a small waterfall across the street. There is no cell service."

    9. Victoria Campground

    15 Reviews
    Lebanon, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (678) 721-6700

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Lots of sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet."

    "Wanted to know every detail of everyone in our party, and my husband came late and I have to give notice for him to join us ( the campground is gated) Now the positives- It’s right on beautiful lake Allatoona"

    10. Bolding Mill

    21 Reviews
    Murrayville, GA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (770) 534-6960

    $20 - $36 / night

    "It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."

    "Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"

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Recent Reviews near Nelson, GA

1520 Reviews of 411 Nelson Campgrounds


  • j
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    Great central location.

    I camp at Unicoi State Park several times a year for a number of different reasons. First, it is right in the middle of what I call waterfall country. There are more beautiful waterfalls within an hour than I can count. Second, there are spectacularly beautiful trails everywhere. You’re only about 20 minutes from the Appalachian Trail at Hog Pen Gap and 30 minutes from Blood Mountain and the Blood Mountain wilderness. Third, there are numerous picturesque and friendly little towns nearby. The park is about 3 miles from the town of Helen, which is a pseudo Bavarian village. A little touristy but still fun. There are some great German restaurants there. As to the park itself, I tent camp, and the campsites are excellent. Nice bathroom and shower facilities close by and regardless of the time of year it has never been crowded. Definitely worth $25 a night and I get a discount because I’m a senior (Remember you have to ask for the discount. They won’t tell you). If you are camping in the tent area, I can almost guarantee you’ll see a bear because they come out almost every night. Keep all of your food in the bear boxes. Since it is somewhat of a resort park, there are cabins, RV hook ups and even a motel/conference center. There are lots of activities like swimming, boating, archery, zip lining, etc. The Smith Creek pub is a nice little restaurant for a quick meal or a drink.

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Quick fall foliage trip

    The park is absolutely beautiful, great scenery and hiking trails. The visitors center is nice, but the helpfulness of the staff was hit or miss. The campsite is nice, quiet, clean bathrooms and warm showers. We camped in a tent and the ground was hard, almost like cement which made staking the tent down difficult. Other than this, we loved it and would come back again.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Red Top Mountain State Park Campground

    Red top mountain state park

    Plenty of campsites, some on the lake. RV, tents, yurts. Spaces 1-12 are especially nice since they are spacious and can handle class A and 5th wheelers. All 12 have water electric and sewer. We have a class C and prefer 1-12 because there is plenty of space between sites.

  • Kayla D.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bald Ridge Creek

    It’s a NO from us

    I wanted to wait a few days before writing this review — truthfully, I wanted to wait until after we checked out. I dreaded the retribution of Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Farmer, the campground manager, which I was sure would follow.

    Our church group had been looking forward to this camping trip for nearly a year. I’ve personally camped at Bald Ridge Creek Campground many times and never had a single issue — until now. Our church typically takes two group trips a year at another Forsyth County campground, but this year, we decided to rent nine sites at Bald Ridge. Even Cindy seemed excited that we were coming!

    We’re a Baptist group — not exactly known for our wild nights. We sing, we fellowship, and we’re back in our campers by 10 p.m. But according to “Queen Cindy,” you’d think we were a pack of college kids throwing keg parties.

    Our crime? An evening of worship and fellowship — a small keyboard, a guitar, and around 50 people spread over three campsites for a couple of hours each night. Cindy declared it an “event” (apparently forbidden) and told us we couldn’t do it again and threatened to make us all leave. She also banned us from eating together — saying we could gather while serving food but had to disperse to our own campsites immediately once we got our plates.

    The only actual rule violation came from one site where a tent wasn’t put up right away. Cindy seized on that excuse to call dispatch and have three sheriff’s deputies sent to “deal with” our peaceful group of families, children, and worshipers.

    To their credit, the deputies couldn’t have been kinder, yet embarrassed that they even had to be there. They laughed at the situation, noting they’re called out to the campground frequently because of Cindy’s pettiness and made-up rules. They said our little keyboard — which Cindy had described like it was a baby grand piano — was no problem at all. They simply advised us to set up the tent and let her stomp it out.

    Cindy even claimed that someone had called the Corps of Engineers to report us — at 7:00 p.m., during the government shutdown, when the office wasn’t even open. 🙄

    For context, Cindy lives at the campground for free as part of her role as host. It’s time for someone new to take over. She also wears a body camera and records campers (which is legal, I know), but as a county employee, those recordings are public record.

    We’ll continue to pray without ceasing for her — that the Lord softens her heart. But until then, I can’t recommend Bald Ridge Creek Campground to anyone who values fair treatment, hospitality, or simple human kindness.

  • Liz  M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Rough Creek Dispersed

    Only 2 Sites

    Gorgeous area at the end of the road. Only 2 sites and one intense drive to get here. It takes about 35 minutes to go 4 miles. Ground clearance and off road tires needed

  • Liz  M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Little Gassaway Creek

    1 Campsite off 4 x 4 Road

    Found this site on the way to another. Only one campsite and requires either off-road tires or 4 x 4

  • George M.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Mulky Campground

    Great location for fishing

    A lot of the campsites are right on the water, so it's super easy to fish. But if you want something more private, there are also some secluded spots up the road.

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Rules not enforced

    The sites are very small and very close together. The lake does have beautiful views. I give 1 star because no rules are enforced. There was no quiet time for us. People were partying, loud music, yelling, being loud up to 3/4am. Both Friday and Saturday nights. It was so bad Friday night that we went to the local Dollar Tree for EAR PLUGS so we could sleep Saturday night. The gate is locked at 10pm however the gate will let you out. A camper below us went to the gate about 11pm and let 2 other cars in. 1 vehicle went out, 3 come in. No rules are enforced. We do not recommend it. The host site is an eye sore. It needs to be cleaned up. It's such a mess! The lake is so beautiful, though.


Guide to Nelson

Camping spots near Nelson, Georgia range from elevations of 700 to 2,800 feet, providing significant temperature variations between campgrounds. The forested foothills create natural windbreaks at many sites, with average summer nighttime temperatures dropping to 65°F at higher elevations. Most campgrounds in the area experience peak occupancy during October's leaf season when reservation windows open 13 months in advance.

What to do

Water activities beyond swimming: At Bald Ridge Creek on Lake Lanier, campers can explore the lake's countless coves by kayak. "We like to kayak to islands, collect rocks and take lots of pictures. Water is warm, a little muddy by shore but clear as you get further out," notes Christy C. The lake supports multiple water activities simultaneously due to its size.

Hiking with elevation gain: Winter hikes provide clearer views across valleys. At Fort Mountain State Park, trails offer significant elevation changes with historic features. "The fire tower is a vision. To think that young men came and worked and set every stone step you walk on to get to the tower is an amazing feat of engineering," shares Elaine G. Most hiking trails remain open year-round, though some close after heavy rainfall.

Wildlife observation: Early morning offers the best wildlife viewing hours. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," reports Shelly C. about Fort Mountain State Park. Deer sightings occur frequently at dawn and dusk, particularly near water sources across multiple campgrounds.

What campers like

Lake proximity: Waterfront sites consistently rank highest in reservations. At Sweetwater Campground, sites directly on the water provide easy access. "We always stay on site 100 it's right on the water," says Mary B. Sites with water views typically cost $5-10 more per night but offer immediate lake access for fishing and swimming.

Privacy between sites: Wooded areas create natural screening between campsites. "The sites are color coded depending on size and there is even a yurt to rent," explains Suzy E. about Red Top Mountain State Park. Loop layouts vary significantly in site spacing, with older campgrounds typically providing more substantial vegetation between spots.

Accommodations beyond tents: Several campgrounds offer structural alternatives for campers without equipment. "Loved hiking here and the cabins are awesome," writes Debbie S. about Amicalola Falls State Park. Platform sites at Fort Mountain provide a middle ground between tents and cabins, with raised wooden platforms at $10-15 less than cabin options.

What you should know

Steep access roads: Many campgrounds require navigating significant inclines. "I read a lot before my trip, so I knew to except the 25% grade incline going up to the campground. I wasn't however expecting the challenging parking in the campsite," notes Traci C. about Amicalola Falls. Larger trailers should check specific campground road conditions before booking.

Bathroom distribution: Facility locations impact site selection at larger campgrounds. "The only downfall is there are only 2 bathroom sites so choose campsite accordingly," advises Peter N. about Bolding Mill. Most bathhouses close for cleaning between 10am-noon daily.

Gate closure times: After-hours arrivals face additional logistics. At Doll Mountain Campground, gates secure the area overnight. "Gate is locked at 10:30 PM; after that you have to park outside the entrance and walk to your site," explains Craig J. Many campgrounds implement similar security measures with varying lockdown schedules.

Tips for camping with families

Beach access considerations: Swimming areas vary significantly in size and quality. "This campground has a beautiful big beach! Boat ramps also," shares Lauren W. about Victoria Campground. Some beaches close midweek during shoulder season (April-May and September-October).

Playground proximity: Not all campgrounds include play equipment. "The playground is crummy," notes Nancy K. about Bolding Mill, highlighting the importance of checking for recreational facilities when booking. Sites within visual distance of playgrounds allow parents to supervise from their campsite.

Kid-friendly exploration: Natural features often engage children more than constructed facilities. At Diamond Lure Campground, "The grounds are clean and maintained with water and power at all or nearly all spots. Scenery is wooded and rustic with a tranquil lake on the property," according to Donald G. Many campgrounds offer junior ranger programs during summer months, providing structured activities for younger campers.

Tips from RVers

Site angles: Backing into spaces requires careful assessment. "Back in is not straight so it takes a little bit of maneuvering (that maybe why it was one of the last few sites available a week out)," explains Kevin Z. about Bolding Mill. Corner sites typically provide more maneuvering room but may have less privacy.

Dump station timing: Sunday departures create bottlenecks at single-station facilities. "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal," shares AR M. about Bolding Mill. Some campgrounds now offer scheduled dump times to reduce waiting periods.

Site leveling challenges: Natural terrain creates uneven sites throughout the region. "The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level," reports Mike N. about Fort Mountain State Park. Most campgrounds do not publish leveling information beyond general site descriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Nelson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Nelson, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 411 campgrounds and RV parks near Nelson, GA and 28 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Nelson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nelson, GA is Amicalola Falls State Park Camping with a 4.7-star rating from 60 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Nelson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Nelson, GA.

What parks are near Nelson, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Nelson, GA that allow camping, notably Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and Carters Lake.