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 (410)

    1. Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    58 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

    78 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."

    "I camped at Red Top regularly when I lived in Georgia 28 years ago. I’ll definitely be returning."

    4. Bald Ridge Creek

    22 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

1514 Reviews of 410 Nelson Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • A
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Margaritaville

    Best Campground Ever

    My wife and I went here for a week back in June 2025. I’ve been to many campgrounds in my day and I can say this one by far is the best. Clean campsites, fun amenities and great golf.

    We went to a Braves game one night since it is only an hour away and made may fond memories. I have already scheduled my week to go back again in 2026!

  • G F.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Amicalola Falls State Park Camping

    Overpriced

    Like some of the other privately managed Georgia state parks, our visit here was disappointing.

    The issues started at the welcome center. The RV parking area was full of cars, even though plenty of regular parking spots were open. When we mentioned it to staff, the response was dismissive — one employee told us, “that’s above my paygrade.”

    The restroom at the welcome center was also a low point. The toilets are stainless steel with no seats — the kind you’d expect to see in a jail — and designed so shallow that whether you sit or hover, you end up getting splashed. It’s an unpleasant and unsanitary setup.

    The campground itself felt neglected, with rotting picnic tables and a general lack of upkeep. It’s also isolated from the rest of the park — there isn’t even a connector trail from the camping area to a single hiking trail, which makes it feel cut off from the very amenities most people come for. At $60 a night, you’d expect at least a basic map of the trails and amenities, but instead you’re told to snap a photo of a cardboard display. That felt like corner-cutting.

    One memorable (and concerning) part of the stay was the bear activity. In September, several bears came through the campground, startling tent campers who had to retreat inside their cars for safety.

    All in all, while the natural setting of Amicalola Falls is beautiful, the way the park is managed left the overall experience underwhelming and, at times, frustrating.

  • Ney N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Woodring Branch Primitive Campground — Carters Lake

    Slice of heaven cost: $10

    My partner always said he loved going here as a kid, so we went. $10 a night was a bargain and I did not expect much. The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept. It was quiet, beautiful, and an absolute slice of heaven. We went swimming and exploring. It did not feel overcrowded or busy. We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world.

  • Bobbi Jo P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Hickory Gap

    One of our favorite places!

    Nice small campground with 5 sites. Fills up during hunting season. Can't beat the peaceful sounds of the creek and nature at its finest!

  • Brittany B.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Clark Creek South Campground

    Great view of the Lake

    The campsite was right next to the swimming beach so little to no privacy and very loud. Although I slept very well in my tent because Quiet hours were observed. It was nice waking up to view of Lake Allatoona. Lady at the gate was rude when checking in so make sure to “READ the sign!” Other than that bathrooms were clean and they have laundry and hot water showers. Will most likely be back!


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 410 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 58 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.