Camping options near Ball Ground, Georgia expand beyond established campgrounds to include lakefront and mountain sites within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating varied terrain for campers seeking different experiences. Water temperatures at Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier typically range from 68-85°F during camping season, making these popular destinations for swimming and water activities.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Amicalola Falls State Park offers access to Georgia's tallest waterfall at 730 feet. One visitor noted, "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." The park also connects to the Len Foote Hike Inn, one of Georgia's few backcountry lodges.
Lake swimming: Sweetwater Campground features designated swimming areas with beach access. "Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc. For pad or by your car camping, easy access to the lake, and close to home around Canton Woodstock area YOU CAN'T BEAT IT!" reports one camper.
Fishing opportunities: McKinney Campground on Lake Allatoona provides excellent fishing access. "We love to fish and we always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," shares one regular visitor who stops at this campground during trips to Florida.
Boating access: Victoria Campground includes boat ramps for those bringing watercraft. "This campground has a beautiful big beach! Boat ramps also," mentions one reviewer, highlighting the dual recreation options.
What campers like
Private lakefront sites: Campers consistently rate water access as a top feature at the best places to camp near Ball Ground, Georgia. At Bald Ridge Creek, "Almost all the campsites are on lake lanier some are heavily wooded beautiful views and nice lake breezes," according to one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many camping areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Amicalola Falls State Park, one camper reported, "My teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth." The park's varied habitats support diverse wildlife observation opportunities.
Historical elements: Some campgrounds offer access to historical sites. At Sweetwater, a camper mentions, "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. it's a great hike." These historical features add educational value to the camping experience.
Shade coverage: The wooded nature of many sites provides relief from summer heat. A camper at Victoria Campground noted, "The spaces were spread out with plenty of shade and canopy cover," which is particularly valuable during Georgia's hot summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds around Ball Ground operate on limited schedules. Payne Campground runs from "March 28 to September 2," while Victoria Campground operates from "March 28 to October 6," making fall and winter camping options more limited.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for premium sites. At McKinney Campground, a visitor points out, "The gate is locked at 10:30 PM; after that you have to park outside the entrance and walk to your site." Know check-in procedures before arriving.
Alcohol policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. At Shady Grove, "If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here," warns one visitor who received a ticket with a mandatory court appearance and $280 fine for consuming alcohol, even discreetly.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. A camper at Amicalola Falls observed, "Roads are extremely steep getting to the campground," while another mentioned, "I read a lot before my trip, so I knew to except the 25% grade incline going up to the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access selection: When camping with kids, sites near swimming areas prove popular. At Sweetwater Campground, one parent shared, "We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it. Beautiful place." These sites often fill first during reservation periods.
Junior ranger programs: Red Top Mountain State Park maintains children's activities even during challenging times. A visitor reported, "Friendly staff, with the Jr ranger program still going with the help of adult campers during covid. Still so much fun and so clean and beautiful!!"
Playground proximity: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Bald Ridge Creek, a visitor noted, "This is a wonderful, scenic campground on beautiful Lake Allatoona. The sites are color coded depending on size and there is even a yurt to rent. We went swimming and hiking." Playground quality varies by location.
Kid-friendly biking: Some campgrounds offer safe cycling environments. A parent at Victoria Campground mentioned, "We had a fun time here, especially the kids. They loved riding their bikes around in this great family friendly campground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment to level RVs. At Doll Mountain Campground, campers note the steep terrain, with one mentioning, "No campsites directly on the lake, it is a mountain so it's steep terrain." Bring leveling blocks and stabilizers.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at certain campgrounds. At Amicalola Falls, one RVer advised, "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."
RV site selection: Some campgrounds offer premium views for RVs. At Red Top Mountain, a visitor reported, "Sites are color coded depending on size and there is even a yurt to rent." Research site dimensions before booking to ensure proper fit.
Dump station timing: At popular campgrounds, Sunday departures can mean waiting to use facilities. A camper at Bald Ridge Creek noted, "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal." Plan accordingly or depart earlier/later to avoid delays.
