Campsites near Newnan, Georgia provide access to the Little Tallapoosa and Chattahoochee river basins in an area that typically receives 50 inches of annual rainfall. Summer temperatures average 89°F in July while winter camping sees average lows around 32°F in January. The region's camping options range from waterfront platforms to elevated tent sites with established hiking trails connecting natural and historical features.
What to do
Hiking along river trails: At Bush Head Shoals Park, trails follow the river's edge with red blazes marking the path. "There is a nice hiking trail right across from site 1," notes Michael P., who appreciated the easy access from the camping area.
Paddle the Chattahoochee: Multiple access points allow for water recreation near Newnan campsites. "We scheduled a kayak trip for Saturday, but needed to change the time. They were very accommodating," shares a Bush Head Shoals visitor who found the staff helpful with river activities.
Explore historical ruins: The Manchester Mill ruins at Sweetwater Creek State Park Campground provide a glimpse into industrial history. "Beautiful hiking trails, very wooded and shaded," says Dori H., who found the park's combination of natural features and historical sites appealing.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound in the area's river corridors. "Almost every time I camp here I see a bald eagle flying over the river," reports one camper at Bush Head Shoals Park, highlighting the wildlife viewing potential.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Chattahoochee Bend State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site layout. "We loved our spot especially #103 in Campground 1, lots of privacy for our 21ft Lance TT," writes Erin C., who found backing in straightforward despite needing to level their trailer.
Clean facilities: Many campers comment on well-maintained bathrooms and facilities. "The bathrooms were cleaner than my bathroom at home," shares a visitor at Chattahoochee Bend, reflecting a common sentiment across reviews.
Riverside camping: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience. "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," notes Sarah S. at McIntosh Reserve Park.
Platform camping options: Elevated camping platforms provide a distinct experience. "Platform sites are super nice. Short walk into the sites, right beside a river," Jessica D. writes about Chattahoochee Bend, though she notes there's "not much privacy between platforms."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some parks require advance booking, others operate differently. "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," explains a McIntosh Reserve Park visitor.
Camping layout diversity: The organization of sites differs between parks. "The camping layout falls somewhere between dispersed camping and a traditional campground. When I checked in, I was told I could pull up to any site with a fire pit," shares a McIntosh camper about the more flexible arrangement.
Limited tent sites: Some parks have fewer options for tent campers. "Not many camping spots for tents more for rv's," reports Devin S. about Chattahoochee Bend, suggesting tent campers should research specific parks before arrival.
Water access varies: River access points aren't always convenient from campsites. "We thought camping on the platforms near the river would give us access to the water but there is not really a beach that we found near the campsites," notes a Chattahoochee Bend camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with playgrounds: Little Tallapoosa Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Sites are nice we were at site 11 pull thru with full hook up. Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," reports Andy M.
Consider park location for biking: Some campgrounds have layouts ideal for children's activities. "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching," shares Sarah F. about Little Tallapoosa Park, highlighting the additional activities beyond hiking.
Check for splash pads: Water features provide summer entertainment. "Great place for family, splash pad in the park," notes Buddy G. about McIntosh Reserve Park, offering an alternative to river swimming which is often prohibited due to currents.
Seek out educational opportunities: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground offers learning experiences. "They also had a scavenger hunt that my kids loved doing," shares Joshua H., who camped with four children and appreciated the educational activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Backing in was not difficult even though we had to raise the right tire 3" to be level," notes one RVer at Chattahoochee Bend State Park about site #103.
Electric options: Check for appropriate hookup compatibility. "Drive through spot for our RV with 50AMP, 30AMP, water and dump service," shares James E., who used Chattahoochee Bend for his maiden voyage in a 22-foot Class C RV.
Camp loops with different features: At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, site selection matters. "We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake. Loop 1 sites are lake front and lake view but more close together than we like," advises Liz H.
Access considerations: Some parks have challenging terrain. "Electric bikes made it all the more fun, since the single road in, out and all about is quite hilly," notes a Chattahoochee Bend visitor who found the additional transportation helpful for navigating the park.
