Established campgrounds near Wildwood, Georgia offer waterfront sites for anglers, hikers, and horseback riders along West Point Lake and surrounding waterways. The terrain features rolling wooded areas with both pine forests and mixed hardwoods throughout Carroll, Troup, and Harris counties. Average summer temperatures reach 90°F while spring and fall camping conditions provide milder 70-75°F daytime temperatures with cooler evenings.
What to do
Shoreline exploration: At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, campers can enjoy exploring the lake banks at various water levels. According to SJ W., "The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks."
Trail hiking: Miles of varied trail systems run throughout the area with options for different skill levels. At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground, a camper noted, "Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area." The park features multiple connected routes for day hikes.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, the region's lakes offer paddling opportunities. Jamie H. mentions, "West point lake is a great place to fish, swim, and yes even boat, but what we enjoy the most about this place is that you can fully enjoy water skiing, Jett skiing, but you can also enjoy a nice paddle in a kayak or canoe."
Equestrian activities: While dedicated horse corrals aren't available, several parks offer trail riding options. Little Tallapoosa Park accommodates horse camping in section 3, with one visitor commenting, "Site 3 is for equine camping." The park features designated equestrian paths separate from hiking areas.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at McIntosh Reserve Park, where dispersed camping allows for privacy. Cass P. notes, "No designated camp sites means you can pick anywhere. We managed to find a very private area all to ourselves."
Fishing access: Direct waterfront camping makes for convenient fishing. Campers at Little Tallapoosa Park mention access to both creek and pond fishing opportunities within the park boundaries.
Modern bathrooms: Despite the rural setting, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. Sarah S. reports at McIntosh Reserve Park, "There is a newer block bathroom with flush toilets, electricity and a shower stall, and outdoor water spigot near the stretch of campsites marked 1-20 along the river."
Water sounds: Sites along moving water provide natural ambiance. At McIntosh Reserve Park, campers enjoy the river atmosphere: "There is a small rapid that stretches across the river near sites 1-10, so you get that nice water flowing sound to fall asleep to!"
What you should know
Primitive camping options: For those seeking basic sites, McIntosh Reserve offers no-frills camping. One visitor shares, "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."
Gate closure times: Be aware of strict access hours. Denis P. warns about R. Shaefer Heard: "But beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy."
Limited satellite reception: Dense forest cover affects connectivity in some areas. As noted at R. Shaefer Heard, "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."
Rustic bathhouse conditions: While some parks have updated facilities, others remain basic. A camper at R. Shaefer Heard candidly describes: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature play equipment for children. At Little Tallapoosa Park, Danna D. notes, "Lots of level tent sites next to pavilions with playground equipment."
Summer water activities: Seasonal splash pads provide added entertainment. Andy M. shares, "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed."
Biking opportunities: Paved paths accommodate young cyclists. Sarah F. reports, "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching."
Child-friendly water play: Shallow areas allow supervised lake access. At R. Shaefer Heard, Justin W. recommends: "We had spot 96 and we tent camped. The spot was recommended in another review and it was wonderful. Right beside the water so the kids were able to play in the water most of the time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all sites accommodate bigger vehicles. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, Ward advises, "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."
Full hookups: Several parks offer complete services. At Little Tallapoosa Park, Swain K. notes, "The sites are nice and paved with full hookups. There was even a dish at are site for satellite."
Senior discounts: Cost savings are available for older campers. According to one visitor at Little Tallapoosa, "Great price for full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered."
Late checkout options: Some parks accommodate extended final days. Dianna B. appreciates this at R. Shaefer Heard: "Late checkout (3pm) was so nice. Overall, a great campground."
