Campgrounds near Roswell, Georgia include several options located on lakes, particularly Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier. Most sites offer camping from spring through early fall, though some remain open year-round. The campgrounds range from 20-40 minutes from Roswell, providing access to water recreation during Georgia's hot summer months when average temperatures reach 90°F.
What to do
Hiking at Stone Mountain Park: The park offers hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels, including the climb to the summit. "We loved these grounds. They were clean and there was easy access to bathrooms. The hike to the top was a challenge, but the views were worth it," shares Judy B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Lake activities at Victoria Campground: Lake Allatoona provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. "This place is well conserved. Lots of sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet. My site (53) had water, electricity, grill, firepit, a table, & access to the lake (10-steps-trail)," reports Adriana C. from her stay at Victoria Campground.
Explore historic trails: Many campgrounds connect to historical sites and trails. "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike," notes Elaine G. about camping at Sweetwater Campground.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many campsites offer direct lake access and views. "We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it. Beautiful place," reports Rodney G. about his stay at Sweetwater Campground. The shoreline sites are popular during summer months when water activities are at their peak.
Wooded privacy: Tree cover provides shade and separation between sites. "We camped with my parents in the RV section of the campground, it was beautifully wooded and offered plenty of space/privacy from other campsites and was still a short walk from the bathhouse," notes Dalhya L. from her experience at Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Deer and birds are common sights at several campgrounds. "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!!" shares Cheryl C. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit alcohol consumption with fines. "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here... Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00. No warning," cautions Rick B. about Shady Grove Campground.
Highway noise: Proximity to roads can impact tent camping experience. "This park is about 30-40 minutes outside of Atlanta right off of I-75. If you are in a tent... you will hear I-75 traffic all night... the drone of the highway will remind you. There is a train that blows its whistle that will wake you up 3 times each night," warns Jeff E. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular lakeside sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Stayed three times August-October with kayaks. Two times had nice lake proximity/view. Beach is nice for the kids. Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal," notes AR M. about their stay at Bald Ridge Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Campgrounds with swimming areas provide built-in activities. "Lake-side spot would have been awesome, but overall very happy with our stay. Spots are large and spacious," mentions Rivers P. about Twin Lakes RV Park. Though swimming isn't allowed in all lakes.
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds have dedicated play areas. "There's all kind of activities for the kids. They have free transportation within the park/campground area. Helpful staff too," shares Harvey B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Tent pad hardness: Some sites require special stakes for securing tents. "The tent pad was large but extremely hard to drive tent stakes into... smaller stakes worked better," advises Jeff E. from his stay at Red Top Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Sites were very narrow. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Campground navigation: Some parks have tight turns and narrow roads. "This is one of our favorite campgrounds. The view of the lake is beautiful. We always stay on site 100 it's right on the water," recommends Mary B. about staying at Sweetwater Campground.
Dump station access: Holiday weekends can create long waits at dump stations. "Our site is very private. Dump station very easy to get into. Nice playground for the kids, Over the air TV worked great," shares the reviewer "5Dudes" about Payne Campground.
