Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground provides family-friendly camping in the Pine Mountain region, located at 2,970 feet elevation within Georgia's largest state park. The park spans 9,049 acres, offering varied terrain from lakeside flatlands to forested ridges. Nightly rates for campsites typically range from $25-35 depending on hookups and season, with cabins available at higher rates.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Lake Delano offers accessible bank fishing opportunities for campers of all ages. "We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing. We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on," shares Joshua H. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Hiking for families: The Pine Mountain Trail network includes shorter loops suitable for children. "This is one of my favorite Georgia State Parks. There are many sites to choose from and there are plenty of things to do in the area. This park is great for hikers -- lots of great trails. I went with my three kids and we all had a blast," says Dana P.
Visit nearby attractions: The park serves as a base to explore regional points of interest. "Very clean and family friendly place. Trading post available for firewood And supplies. Also short drive from the animal safari, and Callaway Gardens," notes Paul N.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many sites offer good separation and natural screening. "We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake. Loop 1 sites are lake front and lake view but more close together than we like," reports Liz H. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance. "The bathrooms are all spotless and each area has a camp host constantly cleaning," notes Everette G., who adds, "This park has great camping with many, many sites of various sizes, all for roughly $30 a night. This may sound steep but the amenities by far make up for it."
Waterfront options: Some equestrian camping areas feature lake views. "Big campsites on beautiful lake. Stayed at site 38. Great stay," writes Michael C. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, a alternative to horse campgrounds near Pine Mountain Valley, Georgia.
What you should know
Gate hours: Some parks restrict after-hours access. "Beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," warns Denis P. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Facility age varies: Bathrooms at some campgrounds show wear. "The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal— rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary," Denis continues about R. Shaefer Heard.
Internet connectivity: Satellite coverage can be limited in wooded areas. "Starlink users: take note— if the lake is high, the shoreline disappears, and with it, any chance of a clear shot to the sky. Reception through the trees was very poor," Denis adds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites with easy access to play areas. "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 you kids loved doing. We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground," shares Joshua H. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Water play options: Some parks offer splash pads for children. "This place is a great place for family reunions or birthday parties. They even do Easter egg hunts every year. Also, for those that are into Geocashing, there are a few you could find here," notes DeWayne H. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds have bike-friendly loops. "Kids on bikes seemed to be having a ball, mostly relaxing and if your into fishing for adults," Ward mentions about R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Check campsite dimensions before booking. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake, please do like all campgrounds all sites are not created equal. Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," Ward advises about R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Hookup availability: Not all equestrian campsites offer full hookups. "Clean bathrooms, lots of shade, fresh water pump and electric at our site. Not much privacy but the lake is beautiful and you can rent boats, plus lots of hiking and history around," reports Stephani about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park.
Shade considerations: Site selection impacts summer comfort. "Sites pretty level and gravel. Concrete picnic table, fire ring and light pole with lots of room fir our dogs," notes Liz H., who visited Franklin D Roosevelt with her pets.
