Camping cabins near Nelson, Georgia sit within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, typically at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with higher humidity. Most cabin areas experience a 10-15 degree temperature difference from nearby Atlanta, making them popular for visitors seeking relief from urban heat.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Five miles from Amicalola Falls State Park's cabins, visitors can access the Len Foote Hike Inn, a sustainable backcountry lodge. "This 730ft cascading waterfall is accessible by stairs and bridge from top to bottom. It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better," notes Fain H.
Lakeside activities: Don Carter State Park cabins provide beach access for swimming and fishing. "They have a nice sandy beach, outdoor showers, large restrooms and swings ideal for sitting and enjoying a meal by the lake," explains Crystal C., who adds, "I took a dip in the cool waters and though they were not a clear blue they were clear and I could see to the bottom all the way out to the edge of the swimming zone."
Mountain biking: Cabin guests at Fort Mountain State Park can access numerous multi-use trails suitable for mountain biking. One visitor notes, "Most of the trails except the Gahuti are multi use and there is a strong community of mountain biking here. We didn't bike the trails here with our hybrid specialized bikes because we felt the trails (other than the lake trail and the park roads) to be too technical for us due to the major elevation changes, loose gravel and rocks."
What campers like
Platform camping sites: At Fort Mountain State Park, beyond standard cabins, visitors can try unique platform sites. "The platform sites are a short walk from a parking area near the lake so you can make multiple trips to the car if necessary, while the backcountry sites are up to a 3 mile hike in, so all gear, food, and water will need to be packed in," explains Stephanie J.
Small, quiet campgrounds: Under The Hemlock Campground and Cabins offers a more intimate experience than state parks. Sarah C. shares, "The campsite is small and quiet. Each site has electric, water, grill, and fire pit. They have a great little store where you can get snacks, ice cream, hot dogs and more. One mile from Amicalola Falls State Park, and very close to Bull and Jake Mountain trails."
Seasonal variation: Vogel State Park cabins provide distinct experiences throughout the year. A visitor in February noted, "We spent a week here in Feb. 2017 it was a bit chilly and quiet. The sites and trails are very well maintained, all facilities were clean and the park rangers are super friendly. They also offer cabin and cottages for those who do not camp."
What you should know
Cabin accessibility: Many cabins require navigating steep terrain. At Amicalola Falls State Park, Kevin B. cautions, "Nice state park with good amenities. Loved the hike and waterfalls. Roads are extremely steep getting to the campground."
Reservation timing: Cabin availability varies dramatically by season. For Len Foote Hike Inn, a guest advises, "Book Early! This place sells out quickly during months of good weather and for all holidays (Especially Thanksgiving)."
Cabin furnishings: Supplies provided vary significantly between properties. At Red Top Mountain State Park, Brock D. notes, "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in. Sites were very narrow."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Stone Mountain Park Campground cabins provide extensive family activities. "The campground offers everything you would ever need. There are tons of things to do from Golf, hiking, zoo, laser show, food and you can hike the mountain or take a ride to the top. There are bike trails and plenty of entertainment for all," explains Holly B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin areas often have abundant wildlife. Traci C. from Amicalola Falls shares, "Beautiful area, my teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth."
Beach access: Many cabin areas include lake beaches for children. At Don Carter State Park, Cameron G. explains, "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, very well kept."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: For RV cabin campers at Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing, site preparation is important. Lara J. advises, "The lot size is quite large for the full hookup sites. Bring extra leveling blocks! There aren't a lot of full hook sites however."
Road conditions: Many cabin areas have challenging roads. Soren B. from Amicalola Falls notes, "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper."
Seasonal weather considerations: RV guests should prepare for temperature variations. At Fort Mountain State Park, Larry M. explains, "If you love twisty roads and beautiful views This is the place. We went in December and the weather was a little cool and damp but the views were great when the fog lifted."
