Lake Allatoona dominates the camping landscape around Rockmart, Georgia, with its 12,000 acres of water and 270 miles of shoreline. At 840 feet elevation, campsites near Rockmart offer a moderate climate with humid summers and mild winters. Most campgrounds in the area are operational year-round, though some Corps of Engineers sites close seasonally between September and May.
What to do
Kayaking on Cedar Creek: Cedar Creek RV & Outdoor Center provides easy water access with rentals available. "Kayaking is one of the main activities. Kayak rentals and sales," notes Robert C., who visited the campground in 2025.
Hiking historic trails: Take a day trip to Sweetwater Creek State Park, about 45 minutes from Rockmart. "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike," shares Elaine G. about Sweetwater Campground.
Lakeside fishing: Many campgrounds offer shoreline access for fishing. "We always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," reports Robin M. about Mckinney Campground, noting that they "always stop here on our trips down to florida."
What campers like
Waterfront privacy: Clark Creek North provides secluded camping spots with water views. "It is small with just 24 spots equipped with water and electric and every spot has water access. Most spots provide complete privacy from your neighbors because of all the trees," explains Kathy B. about Clark Creek North Campground.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Rockmart maintain high sanitation standards. "They have water and outlets and very very clean bathrooms. Like cleaner than a Publix bathroom," writes Cris C. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer ample room between sites. "Sites were on the water and great sizes," reports Maddie K. about McKinney Campground, adding that "bathrooms/bath house" were "decent."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near major rail lines experience intermittent noise. "You can hear the train during the day, and a touch of the interstate at night, but the serenity is absolutely impeccable," mentions The Grass F. about McKinney Campground.
Security concerns: Some campgrounds report theft issues. "After discussing the issue with the campground staff, we were informed that locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground," warns Chris C. about Clark Creek North.
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends can get busy, especially at pet-friendly locations. "Pretty busy campground (especially during spring break🤣). Great water views and easy step down to the waters edge for fishing," notes Joy W. about McKinney.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer beach areas for kids. "We went swimming and hiking. Close to Cartersville to enjoy great restaurants and shopping," says Suzy E. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Playground access: Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing has recreational facilities for children. "Place had a pool and 2 playgrounds. Great for kids," according to Brandi who visited in 2021.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting local animals. "Always see deer and other wild life," Susan H. mentions about McKinney Campground, where numerous waterfront sites allow for nature observation.
Tips from RVers
Challenging terrain: Some sites require careful navigation. "Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in. Sites were very narrow," cautions Brock D. about Red Top Mountain.
Limited dump stations: Prepare for potential waits at busy times. "The dump site gets really busy. They could really use 2 trash/dump sites as this is a large campground and it stays full," advises Joy W. about McKinney Campground.
Water pressure concerns: COE Allatoona Lake Old Highway 41 No 3 Campground and other local campgrounds have variable water pressure. "Water pressure was slightly over 40 psi which made my water pump run continuously until I just shut it off," reports Michael about Cedar Creek RV.