Equestrian camping near Rockmart, Georgia offers scenic terrain with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The area experiences moderate temperatures averaging 55-75°F from spring through fall, making it suitable for extended camping trips. Camping permits for state-managed horse trails typically cost $5-15 per night, depending on the specific location and amenities.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Just 30 minutes from Rockmart, Sawmill Lake Campsite provides access to nearby Petty John Cave for spelunking adventures. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," notes Lisa.
Fishing at lakes: Multiple stocked lakes within a 40-minute drive offer good bass fishing. At Coleman Lake Rec Area, Jason G. reports, "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price." The lake is limited to non-motorized or electric trolling motors only.
Rock climbing: Cherokee Rock formations provide numerous climbing routes for various skill levels. "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls," shares Jess C., who has visited the area multiple times across different seasons.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The newer bathhouses at McIntosh Reserve Park get high marks from campers. Sarah S. notes, "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. It was clean."
Riverside camping spots: Camping along the Chattahoochee River provides peaceful water sounds and fishing access. "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!" describes Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Truly off-grid experience: For campers seeking to disconnect, Mountain Cove Resort offers complete digital detachment. Nathan T. confirms: "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Mountain roads leading to some campgrounds can be difficult for large vehicles or trailers. Mitchell M. advises about Sawmill Lake Campsite: "If you have a trailer or rv I recommend coming in from the west direction, if you can tell from maps. The east way had 180 degree sharp turns up the mountain, so may be difficult."
First-come, first-served limitations: Many equestrian camping areas don't accept reservations. At Coleman Lake, Steven W. points out: "Not alot of paid spots with water electricity and first come first serve so no reservations. Plenty of dispersed throughout the area though."
Water supply planning: Primitive sites require bringing your own water. Abigail P. cautions about Sawmill Lake: "There are no water hookups, so make sure to pack plenty of water with you."
Tips for camping with families
Playground and splash pad access: Several parks offer family-friendly amenities. Andy M. shares about Little Tallapoosa Park: "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed."
Separate tent camping areas: Families with tents can find dedicated spaces. Sarah F. appreciates Little Tallapoosa: "I love the separate tent & RV campsites. The tent sites are decent size and there is some wooded space between each one so it felt quiet and semi-private."
Holiday activities: Some parks organize special events during holidays. Evan S. discovered at Coleman Lake: "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive."
Tips from RVers
Alternative hookup options: When main RV sections fill up, check for overflow areas. Hollis K. found a solution at Little Tallapoosa: "We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water."
Satellite reception: Some sites accommodate satellite dish setups. Swain K. notes about Little Tallapoosa: "The sites are nice and paved with full hookups. There was even a dish at are site for satellite."
Navigation warnings: GPS systems may route RVs on inappropriate roads. Michael S. warns about Coleman Lake: "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper."
Traveler
