R. Shaefer Heard Campground sits on West Point Lake along the Georgia-Alabama border at 500 feet elevation. The campground operates seasonally from March through October with tent pads and RV sites distributed across several loops. Many sites feature concrete pads that can be uneven depending on their proximity to the lake.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park offers extensive trail systems just 30 minutes from LaGrange. "Great hiking trails, very wooded and shaded. The visitor center has a real cool shop and the staff are always friendly and helpful," notes a camper at Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Shoreline exploration: When lake levels drop at R. Shaefer Heard Campground, visitors can explore exposed shorelines. "The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks," mentions one camper who stayed during winter months.
Wildlife observation: Amity Campground features dedicated wildlife viewing areas with observation platforms. "The Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail goes thru the park which is a great hike. Lots of wildlife to see," says a reviewer who spent two weeks at Amity Campground.
Nature walks: For families with small children, short walks at Blanton Creek Park provide easy access to nature. "The park is beautiful! It's a fairly small camp site compared to others. It is very well kept up and clean," reports a visitor at Blanton Creek.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campsites at R. Shaefer Heard Campground offer direct water access. "Most sites have woods in between so they are somewhat private. The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam," notes a recent visitor at R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the separation between sites at Chattahoochee Bend. "Spacious campsites... we loved our spot especially #103 in Campground 1, lots of privacy for our 21ft Lance TT," mentions a reviewer at Chattahoochee Bend State Park Campground.
Waterfront camping: Amity Campground features numerous lakeside sites with convenient water access. "Great sites a respectable distance apart. Nearly all on the lake. Not many amenities and closed in the fall/winter," explains a camper.
Affordable glamping options: For those seeking glamping close to LaGrange, Georgia, Blanton Creek offers waterfront sites with amenities at reasonable rates. "The campground is beautiful! It's a fairly small camp site compared to others. It is very well kept up and clean. Would definitely go back 10/10 expensive," states one reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds near LaGrange have limited operating seasons. "Amity is currently only open from April to Labor Day. We would love it even more if the Corps of Engineers would keep it open all year long," explains a frequent visitor.
Gate hours: R. Shaefer Heard enforces strict gate access hours that affect late arrivals and early departures. "The gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," cautions a recent visitor.
Boat noise: West Point Lake sees considerable watercraft activity that can affect the tranquility of glamping experiences near LaGrange, Georgia. "The lake sees constant activity: motorboats, water skiing, even boats creeping along at night. It's not peaceful water," notes a camper at Blanton Creek Campground.
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds have basic amenities that may not meet glamping expectations. "Facilities are very limited, and it's clear this campground wasn't designed with tent campers in mind. You'll wait in line for restrooms, and you won't enjoy it," warns a reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreational areas for easier access with children. "Check in was quick and easy. We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water. The nearby restroom was old but serviceable and the playground was small," shares a visitor at R. Shaefer Heard.
Family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds feature specific areas designed for families with children. "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing," says a camper at Franklin D Roosevelt State Park.
Water play opportunities: For luxury glamping near LaGrange, Georgia with children, seek sites with gentle water entry. "We were there back in June. We had spot 96 and we tent camped. The spot was recommended in another review and it was wonderful. Right beside the water so the kids were able to play in the water most of the time," recommends a family at Military Park Fort Benning Uchee Creek Army Campground and Marina.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings around campsites. "We saw all types of wild life, deer, boar, and a variety of birds," reports a first-time tent camper at Uchee Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully research site dimensions and terrain before booking. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake, please do like all campgrounds all sites are not created equal. Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," advises an experienced camper at R. Shaefer Heard.
Hookup limitations: Some campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "The 30 amp circuit was not adequate. The breaker continually tripped while using small kitchen appliances," warns a camper at Pine Mountain RV Resort.
Level concerns: Many waterfront sites require significant leveling for RVs. "Backing in was not difficult even though we had to raise the right tire 3" to be level," notes a visitor with a 21-foot trailer at Chattahoochee Bend.
Weather considerations: Summer heat affects glamping comfort near LaGrange, Georgia, particularly for RVers. "I will admit my review is tainted because we were here in July and it was HOT! The saving grace was the big tree in our campsite (116) and the ability to float in the water," shares a camper who stayed during peak summer months.
