Stone Mountain Park Campground offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups just 30 minutes from Roswell, Georgia. Sites sit along the 363-acre lake where fishing, swimming, and kayaking are popular during summer months. Winter temperatures drop to the 30s at night while daytime summer heat often exceeds 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking at Stone Mountain: The hike up Stone Mountain provides views from 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," notes Judy B. who visited Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Water activities on Lake Allatoona: The lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. "These sites were amazing. Most of the sites are right on the lake. There is an abundance of wildlife around. The water is nice and cool. Perfect lake to boat and fish on," says Tracy L H. about Payne Campground.
Trail exploration: Sweetwater Creek State Park features riverside trails with historic ruins. "This is a must for our family at least once a year. We love the water. We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. It's a great hike," shares Elaine G.
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access. "Our site is very private. We are in site 22 in case you were wondering. It is nestled along the shore of Lake Allatoona. The sites are clean, large fire rings, concrete picnic tables, asphalt vehicle and RV pad," Matt H. writes about Victoria Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer and other wildlife are common sightings. "Always see deer and other wild life," notes Susan H. who stayed at McKinney Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. "Shower house was clean, laser show fabulous and while hiking we saw a lot of beautiful wildlife," Jennifer T. reports from her visit to Stone Mountain Park Campground.
What you should know
Alcohol regulations vary: Some campgrounds strictly enforce no-alcohol policies. "If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here. Beautiful day, beer in a solo cup playing cards with my wife at a picnic table. We were not making noise, nobody complained about us. Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets," warns Rick B. about Shady Grove Campground.
Highway noise affects some locations: Proximity to major roads can impact tent camping. "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," Jeff E. explains about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Sweetwater Campground only operates from "March 15 to September 7," while others like Bald Ridge Creek are open "mid-March to mid-November."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Several lakeside campgrounds include swimming areas. "Great family campground. The attendant's are friendly and helpful. Lots of nearby things to do," shares Malinda C. about Sweetwater Campground.
Playgrounds and recreation: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "They have a nice playground that is walking distance from our favorite camp sites that the kids really love," explains Chris H. regarding Shady Grove.
Junior ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities. "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," Cheryl C. shares about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," Brock D. cautions about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. "Huge campground but only one dumpstation," notes Scarlett W. about Sweetwater Campground.
Electric hookup options: Most campgrounds offer various amp options. "Sites have water and electric. A few have full hook ups," says Susan H. about McKinney Campground.
