Tent camping options surrounding Newnan, Georgia include primitive and established sites within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Fall camping offers comfortable temperatures in the 60-70°F range, while spring brings increased rainfall, particularly in March when the region averages 5.5 inches of precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking on the Chattahoochee River: Bush Head Shoals Park provides direct river access with kayak rentals available on-site. One visitor reported, "We scheduled a kayak trip for Saturday, but needed to change the time. They were very accommodating."
Hiking at Panola Mountain: Panola Mountain State Park Campground offers guided mountain tours approximately 45 miles from Newnan. A camper noted, "We took the guided tour of the Mountain and it was awesome. We ate Pine Trees and they explained about liken and the red fungus."
Wildlife observation: Bush Head Shoals Park visitors regularly spot various wildlife along the river corridor. According to reviews, the campground provides "plenty of room for all my fishing tackle, coolers, and chairs in each spot" with the environment being "very well kept and far out from large roads so it is always quiet enough to hear the birds."
Seasonal hunting: Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area permits hunting during designated seasons. Visitors should check the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website for current regulations, as one reviewer pointed out that there's "no cell coverage" in this primitive camping area.
What campers like
River soundscape: At Bush Head Shoals Park, the proximity to moving water creates natural white noise. Reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere, with one noting they "always enjoy staying overnight and enjoying a fire in the provided fire/cooking circle."
Responsive campground hosts: Campers consistently praise the attentiveness of certain campground owners. One Bush Head Shoals visitor wrote, "The owners Raven and Phillip are fantastic hosts! They were very easy to communicate with. They met us at the campground to make sure we knew where everything was."
Self-service conveniences: Some campgrounds feature honor-system supplies. According to a review, Bush Head Shoals has "Ice and firewood available. You just grab it and either venmo Raven or drop money in the drop box."
Night sky viewing: Several tent camping areas around Newnan offer minimal light pollution. Visitors to Panola Mountain reported hearing "the sounds of a vibrant coyote pack" while enjoying evening stargazing.
What you should know
License requirements: Camping at Joe Kurz WMA requires proper documentation. A reviewer explains, "Important to note is the requirement for a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license to camp, reflecting the area's primary use for hunting and fishing activities."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have inconsistent coverage. A Panola Mountain camper reported "good cell reception (T-Mobile)" while Joe Kurz WMA has "no cell coverage" according to reviews.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. One visitor to Hideaway Park noted it was "definitely worth a visit if you like freedom" but mentioned that "the property has been empty for quite some time."
Reservation difficulties: Some properties have communication challenges. One potential visitor to Atlanta West Campground stated, "Not sure how they have so many people staying there when they were almost impossible for us to contact! We ended up staying somewhere else after a week of calling and not getting through."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite spacing: Choose locations with adequate separation between sites for privacy. A Bush Head Shoals visitor mentioned, "The sites were extremely spacious. You could easily fit two 6 person tents."
Bathroom accessibility: Consider facilities when camping with children. One camper at Bush Head Shoals noted they have "2 vault toilets, which are lit at night which is nice."
Age-appropriate activities: Select campgrounds with family-friendly options. A visitor to Panola Mountain State Park reported, "It was great to see some families utilizing the space" and that "getting to the campsite was simple enough and it is the quoted 3/4 mile walk in."
Weather preparation: Georgia's climate can change quickly, especially during spring and fall. A Bush Head Shoals reviewer with a "Family of 4: 3 and 5 year old" mentioned all components were "extremely well kept" but advised being prepared as there is no running water.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Many tent camping areas near Newnan have restricted vehicle access. The reviewer at Bush Head Shoals noted, "We are on a motorcycle so we checked with Raven to make sure we would be good. The roads are gravel but well maintained."
Long-term occupancy: Some campgrounds primarily serve extended-stay residents. A visitor to Atlanta West Campground observed it's "much more of a mobile home or RV park than a campground since most of the people staying here are set up for long term residency rather than for a night or two."
Limited hookups: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer minimal RV services. A Joe Kurz WMA visitor stated they "went with a travel trailer" to this predominantly "tent and car campers" area but noted the primitive nature of the facilities.
