The lake campgrounds near Sparta, Georgia span a 30-mile radius with many sites situated on peninsulas extending into water bodies. Most camping areas feature 30-50 amp electrical hookups and water access, with sites ranging from secluded forest settings to open waterfront locations. Winter temperatures typically remain moderate enough for year-round camping at several locations, though summer humidity requires preparation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hamburg State Park Campground, nearly every site offers direct water access. "All most all sites are literally right on the lake. Extremely quite and literally in the middle of nowhere. If you want to rest and relax in solitude, this is you place," notes David Glenn M. The fishing is particularly good, with one camper mentioning "great fishing, and new clean bathrooms."
Historical exploration: A. H. Stephens State Park Campground offers unique historical attractions alongside camping. "The park is the home of the VP of the Confederacy and features his home and Civil War artifacts (check for open hours)," reports Norris K. The park also features "this large primitive area that we used" according to another camper, providing different camping experiences from the lakefront sites common elsewhere.
Water recreation: Lawrence Shoals Campground provides extensive water recreation beyond just fishing. "There is a boat ramp, several docks, pavilions, and a beach," notes Josh W. The campground features "some very well maintained trails that catered to both hikers and bikers" according to Everette G., offering land-based activities as alternatives to lake recreation.
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Hamburg State Park receives consistent praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "Great get away for nothing but quietness. No internet, no nothing. Just a peaceful lake escaping reality," says Todd L. This contrasts with busier campgrounds in the region.
Clean facilities: Mistletoe State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Great shower houses and beautiful place to stay," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Everything in the park was very clean and well-maintained," highlighting the park's attention to maintenance.
Lake views: Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings across all campgrounds. "Sites 4-19 have sunrise views. Site 20 sits on the point by itself but has no shade... Sites 21-30 have sunset views. Sites 4-30 have direct water access," explains Cathy C., providing specific information about site selection at Hamburg State Park.
Spacious campsites: A. H. Stephens State Park offers ample space between sites. "We really like campgrounds that have a lot of room, space between each site and easy sites to get in to. AH Stephen's fits that bill!" reports Debbie K., suggesting this park for those seeking more privacy.
What you should know
Ant problems: Old Salem Park Campground has significant ant issues requiring preparation. "Spray WELL for ants as they are abundant," advises Mike B. Another camper noted, "Went to the local Home Depot and got spray and that slowed them down but effectively trapped the ones already there and they began to come inside at that point."
Limited tent options: Some campgrounds primarily cater to RVs with fewer accommodations for tent campers. "This would be a nice park if you have an RV. We, however, were staying in a tent... the sites are long and narrow and close together," reports Nicole R. about A.H. Stephens State Park.
Remote locations: Many campgrounds are far from supplies. "The park located in small town. It is very quite, nothing is nearby. Walmart is 33 miles away, so you should stock up before camping there," advises Luan N. about A.H. Stephens State Park.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels vary significantly by season. "The water level was also extremely low when I was there so some of those rocks are probably covered by water earlier in the year," notes Andy S. about Mistletoe State Park, affecting both water access and aesthetics.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Scenic Mountain RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "We did notice a playground, in ground pool, club house and the office has a few necessities--the staff was fabulous!" reports Kelly W. Another camper noted "great lil hidden gem in the middle of Georgia! very nice pool and playground and tons of fishing."
Beach activities: Old Salem Park has designated swimming areas for children. "This area is clean well kept and child friendly. Bathrooms/showers are clean. Playground area is nicely kept and safe," reports Leigh R., making it suitable for families with young children.
Fishing programs: Mistletoe State Park offers fishing programs specifically for children. "Free fishing pole for kids," notes Amy C., providing an activity that doesn't require families to bring all their own equipment.
Holiday events: A.H. Stephens State Park hosts seasonal events. "The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen," shares Mary G., offering added value for families camping during holiday periods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should consider specific site attributes at Lawrence Shoals Campground. "RV sites are large and spaced out enough so that your neighbors are not in your backyard," notes Mike B., emphasizing the importance of selecting the right site for comfort.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have limited maneuverability. "Very large sites. Very quiet. All but 3 sites are on the lake. Sites 1 and 2 are primitive - water, electric and no water view," explains Cathy C. about Hamburg State Park, helping RVers understand which sites might work best.
Hookup options: Most campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, with some providing sewer connections. "Nice place, kept neat and clean. Several spaces though fairly close together water and electricity, dependable small dump station easily accessible as well," reports david S. about Hamburg State Park.
