Camping near Newnan, Georgia centers around the Chattahoochee River basin, with most sites situated between 700-900 feet above sea level. The area experiences moderate temperatures most of the year with higher humidity levels in summer months when overnight lows rarely drop below 65°F. Fall brings drier conditions and cooler temperatures, making it the preferred camping season for many visitors.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Chattahoochee Bend State Park, campers find trails suitable for beginners to experienced hikers. "Lots of great hiking. 2 playgrounds were open. Playgrounds are brand new or at least they look brand new. I am 225 lbs and I played on all the equipment with my daughter," shares Joey P. from Chattahoochee Bend State Park Campground.
Kayaking and river access: Bush Head Shoals Park offers convenient river access with boat rentals available. "We camped 3 nights and also rented a Kayak. The Chattahoochee Outdoors family are awesome. We floated and hiked and had an amazing time," notes Christy R. from Bush Head Shoals Park. The park maintains six well-kept campsites with easy river access.
Historical sites: Explore the historical ruins and trails at Sweetwater Creek State Park, located about 40 minutes northeast of Newnan. "We took the trail that shows you where they built the mill then goes along the river for a while. It was a beautiful hike but definitely challenging since there are a lot of rocks you have to climb over," reports Asher K. at Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful riverside camping: Campers consistently mention the tranquil riverside locations. "I always enjoy staying overnight and enjoying a fire in the provided fire/cooking circle. Almost every time I camp here I see a bald eagle flying over the river," writes Justin K. about Bush Head Shoals Park. Wildlife sightings near the water are common throughout the camping season.
Well-maintained facilities: Little Tallapoosa Park receives praise for its upkeep. "Everything is well maintained from the roads, campsites, unpaved trails, and bathrooms. I was impressed with how clean everything was despite being a campground," notes Zachary N. from Little Tallapoosa Park. The park offers full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer.
Variety of camping options: From tent platforms to RV sites, the region offers diverse accommodation types. "Platform sites are super nice. Short walk into the sites, right beside a river. Not much privacy between platforms but every time we have been it hasn't been full or crowded," says Jessica D. about the tent platforms at Chattahoochee Bend State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "Camping is first come first served basis, no reservations. $20 per night, parking for one vehicle included. Extra vehicles require $5 parking pass per day," explains Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Site conditions: Many campsites in the area require leveling equipment. "We loved our spot especially #103 in Campground 1, lots of privacy for our 21ft Lance TT. Backing in was not difficult even though we had to raise the right tire 3" to be level," reports Erin C. about Chattahoochee Bend State Park.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity. During spring, sudden thunderstorms can develop quickly. Fall camping offers more comfortable temperatures but requires earlier booking due to popularity.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park provides excellent facilities for children. "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that my kids loved doing," shares Joshua H. from Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Choose loops with low traffic: Family-friendly campsite selection matters for safety. "We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride their bikes around the circle that the camp sites were on," adds Joshua H. about Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park.
Splash pads for summer heat: Little Tallapoosa Park offers water features during hot months. "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," notes Andy M. This provides cooling recreation without river current risks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: McIntosh Reserve Park offers options for bigger rigs. "Camping layout falls somewhere between dispersed camping and a traditional campground. Bigger campers could opt for sites 8 or 9 which don't have trees," advises Sarah S.
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the area require significant leveling equipment. "Just bought our first RV and it was a 22 foot Class C. We decided to stay close to home to try it out, learn everything on it in a forgiving place. Chattahoochee Bend was perfect. Drive through spot for our RV with 50AMP, 30AMP, water and dump service," mentions James E.
Winter RVing considerations: Most campgrounds remain open year-round but wintertime amenities may be limited. Water connections at some sites may be turned off during freezing conditions, requiring self-contained water supplies.
