Best Camping near Athens, GA

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Athens, GA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Athens. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Athens, GA (116)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Yargo State Park Campground

    1.

    Fort Yargo State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    108 Photos
    179 Saves
    Winder, Georgia

    Nestled between Athens and Atlanta, Fort Yargo is a 1,816-acre park located in Georgia state. Its namesake comes from a log fort that was constructed by settlers who, at the time, built it to protect themselves against the Creek and Cherokee. Nowadays, visitors flock to this park to enjoy the variety of outdoor recreation and activities.

    Apart from all the recreation the park has to offer, it also provides some of the most gorgeous views in the Eastern region of the United States. Here, folks can enjoy over 20 miles of hiking and bike trails. Fort Yargo State Park is also a common location for outdoor weddings and other types of special events and celebrations.

    Those looking to stay overnight have an abundance of options to choose from. The park offers 12 walk-in campsites, 13 “adventure” cabins, 40 RV and tent campsites, group shelters, and even lakeside yurts for anyone wanting a true “glamping” experience. The fees for staying overnight range from $25-135, and do not include the ParkPass fee. The ParkPass fee is $5 per day for passenger vehicles carrying a maximum of 12 people, and for passenger vehicles with additional occupants the fee is $30 per day. Additionally, there is an annual option for $50-75 per year. Luckily, visitors are only required to pay for a ParkPass once during the entirety of their stay.

    The main attractions to this park are the variety of activities such as disc golf, mini golf, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, fishing, and geocaching. Disc golf has proven to be a challenge for many visitors, at least partly due to the fact that it's a densely wooded course. This park is also home to a gorgeous 260-acre lake with a seasonal beach. Visitors can enjoy a day at the lake on one of the two beach pavilions and fishing is a welcome activity as well.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $34 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground

    2.

    Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    80 Photos
    158 Saves
    Rutledge, Georgia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground

    3.

    Stone Mountain Park Campground

    88 Reviews
    259 Photos
    407 Saves
    Stone Mountain, Georgia

    Nestled among 3200 acres of natural beauty just outside of Atlanta, the Stone Mountain Park Campground features over 400 RV, Pop-up, and Tent sites as well as Yurt, Safari Tent, and RV Rentals. While Stone Mountain GA camping you'll also find a variety of recreational activities and family-friendly attractions and events available seasonally.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $44 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    4.

    Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    69 Photos
    60 Saves
    Carlton, Georgia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground

    5.

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    158 Photos
    178 Saves
    Lula, Georgia

    Don Carter is Georgia’s newest state park, as well as the first state park on 38,000 acre Lake Lanier. Situated on the north end of the reservoir, the park offers outstanding recreation for water lovers. Guests can stay cool at a large, sand swimming beach with bath house. Boat ramps provide quick access to the lake, while a multi-use trail welcomes hikers and bikers to explore the hardwood forest. This new park offers several choices for overnight getaways as well. Two-bedroom cabins are perched on wooded hillsides near the lake. One campground is designed specifically for RVs, while another primitive camping area is just for tents and hammocks. The campground and cottage loop is gated, providing access to overnight guests. The park is named in honor of real-estate executive Don Carter who served on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources board for 29 years and worked to establish Lake Lanier’s first state park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $1 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground

    6.

    Tugaloo State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    151 Photos
    181 Saves
    Fair Play, South Carolina

    Situated on a wooded peninsula, Tugaloo’s cottages and most campsites offer spectacular views of 55,590 acre Lake Hartwell in every direction. Some cottages even have private boat docks for overnight guests. Tent campers can choose between the developed campground or primitive sites located a short walk from the parking area. During summer, the lake is a popular destination for swimming, water skiing, sailing and boating. Both the Sassafras and Muscadine hiking trails wind through oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry trees. Tugaloo State Park boasts a six-lane mega ramp used for large fishing tournaments and easy lake access. Fishing is excellent year-round, and large-mouth bass are plentiful. The name “Tugaloo” comes from an Indian name for the river which once flowed freely prior to the construction of Hartwell Dam.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $5 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Victoria Bryant State Park Campground

    7.

    Victoria Bryant State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    59 Photos
    70 Saves
    Royston, Georgia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

  • 8.

    North Shore Landing

    14 Reviews
    42 Photos
    38 Saves
    Greensboro, Georgia

    We are proud to present our North Landing Beach camp resort & campground offering the perfect combination of amenities and rustic camping.

    A playful railroad theme is just a hint of all the fun you will have at this one-of-a-kind resort. Offering full hook-up RV Sites, Cabin Rentals, and Tent Sites. The campground is full of authentic railroad boxcars, club cars, and cabooses – and you can spend the night in one! Situated on 55 acres on the enchanted Lake Oconee, North Shore Landing is a pure natural beauty. Its majestic location, located outside Atlanta, makes it one of our most enjoyable and wonderful RV camping properties. Lake Oconee not only provides a movie like background but the many recreational activities you will enjoy will keep your interest in hours. Fishing, boating or just wandering on the shoreline, it truly is an amazing spot. Plus, its proximity to the lovely town of Greensboro will be a destination you will love to explore!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $80 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Lake RV Campground

    9.

    Pine Lake RV Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    36 Saves
    Bishop, Georgia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal

    10.

    Old Federal

    18 Reviews
    60 Photos
    147 Saves
    Oakwood, Georgia

    Overview

    Old Federal Campground lies on the eastern banks of Lake Sidney Lanier in Northern Georgia. Popular for its aqua-blue waters and spectacular scenery, Lake Sidney Lanier hosts over 11 million visitors annually for fantastic fishing and boating opportunities.

    Recreation

    Old Federal Campground offers many outdoor recreation opportunities including fishing, swimming, picnicking and bike riding. On the lake there are opportunities for wake boarding, kayaking, boating and much more. There's also a swimming beach and boat ramp available for campers.

    Facilities

    Old Federal Campground offers many outdoor recreation opportunities including fishing, swimming, picnicking and bike riding. On the lake there are opportunities for wake boarding, kayaking, boating and much more. There's also a swimming beach and boat ramp available for campers.

    Natural Features

    Lake Sidney Lanier is nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake features 692 miles of shoreline and spans 38,000 surface water acres and 17,000 acres of lush terrain. The reservoir was created in 1956 with teh completion of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lake Lanier Islands as well as other nearby Army Corps and county parks provide may different recreation opportunities at the lake. The nearby city of Gainesville provides many opportunities for those looking to explore the local area.

    contact_info

    This location is staffed. Please call (470) 774-7881 to speak with local staff.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations must be made via the online/phone reservation system or in person at the gatehouse. Cancellation calls to the gatehouse will not be honored.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $26 - $36 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 116 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Athens

Recent Reviews In Athens

673 Reviews of 116 Athens Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Parks Ferry Campground
    September 4, 2024

    Parks Ferry Campground

    Will not go back

    While the camp hosts were very nice and the bathrooms were clean, that’s where the good ends. The sites are on top of each other in the inner loop and very much out of level. There is no place to dump trash in the campground. The only places were at the boat ramp and beach. Worst of all was the dump station was overflowing and could not be used when we were leaving.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    August 26, 2024

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Only a few campsites near the water

    Site 7 is separate from the others and has the whole point except there is a trail behind the site. No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Duckett Mill
    August 18, 2024

    Duckett Mill

    Nice and Quiet

    Nice campsites with water and electricity. Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bolding Mill
    August 12, 2024

    Bolding Mill

    Nice place to stay

    We stayed in site 7 and we really enjoyed it. The site was clean and the pad was very level.

    We had a minor issue popping the 30amp breaker but switched over to the 50 amp adapter and all worked fine.

    Didn’t use the bath house but I did go check them out and they looked clean.

    I would caution big rigs on the first loop (sites 2 - 9) the loop at the back is pretty tight. We did fine with our 28’ TT but anyone over 30’ might want to consider the other loops.

    Driving through and looking at the other sites some of the picnic areas need to be reworked or at the very least mowed and weeded. If it wasn’t for that sort of stuff I would give it 5 stars.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY
    July 23, 2024

    Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY

    toccoa falls college rv park

    Nestled in a scenic area, it provides a supportive community atmosphere conducive to both study and relaxation. The park’s amenities and proximity to campus make it an ideal choice for those looking to balance academics with a bit of adventure. For students seeking to manage their time effectively and focus on studies, utilizing services that allow you to https://ca.papersowl.com/pay-for-essay can be a practical solution, ensuring high-quality academic work while enjoying the RV park lifestyle.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    July 11, 2024

    Stone Mountain Park Campground

    Safari tent

    Tons of things to do train rides, gondola ride to the top, hiking and fireworks. Stayed in a safari tent a little worn down with duck tape on the screen. However, clean bathroom/showers and fun pool. A couple of crazy squirrels visit us every morning.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    July 3, 2024

    Tugaloo State Park Campground

    Georgia is a great state

    We live in NC and have camped all over the eastern US. By far Georgia is a state with some of the very best infrastructure. Roads are great. State Parks are some of the best and we’ve camped at many. Tugaloo State Park is a nice park. Right on the lake. Lots of lake related activities. This area of the campground (sites 73-105) has a unique layout in that a large number of sites are pull through and arranged sideways along the access roads. This makes the sites long and narrow and results in close neighbors. The elongated sites mean the picnic table and fire pit are at far end and feel disconnected from the site. Roads are well maintained and sites all seemed pretty level. We were in site 97 with W/E. The bathhouse was very close, but we did not use it. We were a few rows back from the lake but had a view of the lake through the tall pines that provided some shade. We’ve camped here a couple of other times and would come back again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY
    July 1, 2024

    Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY

    Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY

    Looking for a unique living experience while attending Toccoa Falls College? The Toccoa Falls College RV Park offers a fantastic opportunity for students to enjoy the beauty of nature right on campus. This student-only RV park provides a peaceful, community-oriented environment perfect for studying and relaxing. With convenient access to campus facilities and the stunning Toccoa Falls just a short walk away, it's an ideal option for those who love the great outdoors. leon s kennedy leather jacket Whether you're a full-time RV dweller or just looking for a temporary spot, the Toccoa Falls College RV Park has you covered!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Old Salem Park Campground
    June 24, 2024

    Old Salem Park Campground

    Great Place for Campers/Boaters

    Camp host Bobby was pleasant and helpful,  Sites were a good size and spaced well. Georgia Power has some of the nicest campgrounds and this one is a gem. Great place for boating and fishing and kiddos will love the beach, not many trails to hike and very Dog Friendly (a must for us)  Bath house and latrines were absolutely stellar and very clean, laundry area as well.  Spray WELL for ants as they are abundant we had no issues but our neighbors needed some assistance in mitigation.  Close drive to town for additional supplies and a Publix supermarket is about 2 miles away.  final words... Great place for kids and boating if you're looking for wilderness trails this is not the place.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lawrence Shoals Campground
    June 22, 2024

    Lawrence Shoals Campground

    Shhhh,,, Don’t Tell Anyone

    I was debating on whether or not to leave this stellar review, knowing that once the word was out, the crowds would come.  This park operated by Georgia power and light is one of the nicest cleanest and well cared for parks. I’ve been in.  Most state parks could take a lesson from the operators of these parks.  First off the RV sites are large and spaced out enough so that your neighbors are not in your backyard.  Plenty of trees and Flora  To keep the park looking natural.  If you like trails, there is an abundance and some are multi use so bring your mountain bike..  They have some black diamond mountain bike trails as well for the more experienced.  Some of the walking trails have  signs along them for historical markers, or just descriptions of the local flora and fauna.  All of the roads are paved and access for my 30 foot RV were easily negotiated.,  The lake is very large and welcomes boaters of any kind, including jet skis.  There is a small swimming beach, of course no dogs allowed but if you walk around the edge of the lake, you can find plenty of spots to take a splash with your pup..  joe is the park host along with his wife and I’ve been there for 11 years super nice fellow very accommodating. The showers and restroom facilities are the cleanest I’ve ever experienced, hot water was abundant. The only thing that may be lacking or hooks to hang your towels.. If I could give it 10 stars, I would,

  • Camper-submitted photo from Duckett Mill
    June 16, 2024

    Duckett Mill

    Beautiful camping

    My family and I camped here for the weekend. Our campsite was beautiful and level. We could easily accommodate our pop-up camper and a 4-person tent with room to spare! My son was able to play and explore. My only critic would be that we were a little let down at the condition of the beach and that there was no playground when there was one listed on the grounds map. We will definitely be returning nonetheless.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Carolina Landing
    June 11, 2024

    Thousand Trails Carolina Landing

    Average Park- Would return

    Cabin 3 stars- Older cabin, clean, spacious with very large living area, loft area small and a bit dingy, shared porch Campground 3 stars-wooded, shady, hilly Amenities 3 stars- a bit run down Staff 3 stars-average

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Creek Campground
    May 20, 2024

    Paynes Creek Campground

    Quaint and Beautiful

    Came here for the first time last year and I love that it’s in the middle of no where. We had a great place next to the beach and the gate workers were so sweet!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Old Federal
    May 20, 2024

    Old Federal

    Family getaway

    Been going here since I was a kid and now I take my kids every year. It’s quiet but it could use more campsites with a beach area and maybe updated bathrooms. Still love it though

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Russell Recreation Area
    April 22, 2024

    Lake Russell Recreation Area

    Natural beauty

    This was my second time here and I wasn’t a huge fan of this site. Otherwise, beautiful campground with lots of shade and plenty of trails. Limited to no service out here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    April 22, 2024

    Shady Grove Campground

    Deer everywhere!

    This is a very well maintained and popular campground on Lanier. I’ve come here since I was a kid. Tent sites are down some stairs, keep that in mind.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Russell Recreation Area
    April 22, 2024

    Lake Russell Recreation Area

    Disconnect for the weekend

    I love this campground! It feels pretty secluded from the city because of the long drive in. Beautiful sites and plenty of trails nearby. My friend and I brought our hammocks and enjoyed a very peaceful weekend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area
    April 17, 2024

    Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area

    Nice campsite

    CG Manager drove through periodically and was very friendly. I met him on the trail to the falls and took the time to explain the factory that used to be there. Very interesting. Most sites are on the water. Has toilets and showers. I stayed for 3 nights and had a great time.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shoal Creek Campground
    April 17, 2024

    Shoal Creek Campground

    Beautiful lake front AND lake view camping spots; friendly staff

    This was our first RV camping experience -- testing out a new pop-up camper during a two (2) night stay. Reservations were made through Campspot -- about $120 with fees. Communication with the main number for the campground went through the Margaritaville Campground nearby. Separate direct lines to the camp office and security were provided after arrival. Overall communication was good with both, and the staff were always polite.

    We skipped our first night reservation due to high winds. We had concerns about damaging the pop-up roof during first-time setup. We decided, instead, to visit the campsite we'd reserved and pick up our paperwork. Site 56 was our first choice, and we were NOT happy with it. I selected the wrong size on the Campspot website -- a 20' campsite. It was not big enough to park both the camper AND the tow vehicle, AND the camper would've been facing away from the lake anyway with water and electrical hookups.

    The next morning, we called to arrange for a different site. The camp office was very accommodating and blocked off four (4) available sites to choose from. We moved to site 55, which was a large circular pull through. Probably too big for our pop-up camper, but also probably too close to trees for a larger trailer or even a 5th wheel. The campsite was large, with the picnic table, fire ring and sand pit away from the camper. There was lots of room to set up and enjoy the beautiful lake views.

    Electric and water hookups worked just fine. The camp office lent a 50 amp to 30 amp adapter free of charge. We had no issues with either service. The showers and bathrooms were about 2-3 sites down and up the road from 55, and they were reasonably clean for what they were.

    I WAS disappointed that the main gate was broken, and the key code locks on the showers and bathrooms were duct taped shut. However, I did not feel that the campground was all that insecure, and there did not appear to be a lot of traffic coming through. Security DID come through overnight on Sunday morning -- probably due to some noise at 1-2 of the campsites across the cove from ours. Things quieted down after. The camp host was cleaning bathrooms on Sunday morning, and he was very polite when we talked. I saw him regularly coming through to check on campsites and clean up.

    Overall, we liked this campground and will be going back. I will likely request to scout out some different sites in person before selecting one, as I don't want to be in a position to have to give up my spot when it's very busy.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Springfield - Hartwell Lake
    April 8, 2024

    Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    Great experience at springfield

    We had a great experience. Space was easy to get the camper backed into and spaces were far enough apart for small kids to have room to play without bothering other campers. Only concern was the spot we chose was on an exposed point on the lake and was very windy. Would probably be great on a 90 degree summer day but was very cold when the temps dropped into the 40s on our last day.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Russell Recreation Area
    April 3, 2024

    Lake Russell Recreation Area

    Quiet Easter Weekend

    We booked a last minute night here for Easter weekend to get out of the city. It one of the only places available due to our last minute decision. We stayed in Loop A. It’s smaller than Loop B. With plenty of trees for hammocks, we had plenty of room for both of our tents, 2 hammocks, and both cars. Loop A is in walking distance to the beach area/day use area. It was so peaceful! There’s one bathroom in Loop A. With 2 stalls and one shower in the women’s portion. I’m assuming then men’s is the same. I’d definitely stay here again! I have Verizon and I had one bar here. Enough to send/receive a text but that’s about it.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY
    March 30, 2024

    Toccoa Falls College RV Park - STUDENTS ONLY

    Review

    Exploring Toccoa Falls College RV Park sounds like a unique opportunity for alumni and current students' families to connect with nature while staying close to the campus community. It's wonderful how specific spots like this offer a tailored experience, much like how the follow link caters to students needing focused and personalized dissertation help. Whether you're an alum looking back on your academic journey or a parent supporting a current student, the challenges of dissertation writing are well understood. If you or someone you know is navigating the complex process of dissertation writing, the service provides comprehensive support to help reach academic goals with less stress. Their expert guidance can make all the difference.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Wesley Oaks RV Park
    March 28, 2024

    Wesley Oaks RV Park

    Expensive + additonal fees

    925 per month regardless of class size. 400 dollar security deposit plus a 50 dollar pet rent every month. Apartments charge less for security deposits+ pet rent (especially this high!) is something I’ve yet to hear of for an RV park. For a small 30 amp camper van, it’s just not justifiable to pay the same price as a big rig.



Guide to Athens

Camping near Athens, Georgia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground, have stunning trails. One visitor mentioned, "Nice trails with beautiful scenery, the hike to the base of the Gorge is strenuous with LOTS of stair steps back up but if you can do it certainly worth it."
  • Water Activities: At Mistletoe State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking and fishing. A camper shared, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!"
  • Family Fun: Fort Yargo State Park Campground has playgrounds and trails. One family said, "We played putt-putt golf, walked along the dam, and played on the playgrounds."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to."
  • Additional Fees: Be prepared for extra costs, like parking fees at certain parks. One camper at Stone Mountain Park Campground noted, "On top of the $70 a night you must pay a $20 parking fee."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell pointed out, "The bathrooms were dated and dirty with poor lighting."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. One family at Indian Springs State Park Campground enjoyed, "There were lots of other kids there to play with during our 3-night stay."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Fort Yargo State Park Campground mentioned, "We took to the pathways with our dog and enjoyed the many animals roaming through the woods."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at Mistletoe State Park Campground said, "This place has everything, even cheap laundry!"

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tugaloo State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads were a little narrow for larger rigs but look to be well maintained."
  • Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with the dump station locations. A visitor at Don Carter State Park Campground noted, "Dump station is on the way out."
  • Reserve Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Unicoi State Park & Lodge advised, "Not paying $75 a night for a campsite. This place has gone downhill since the private company took it over!"

Camping around Athens, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Athens, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Athens, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 116 campgrounds and RV parks near Athens, GA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Athens, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Athens, GA is Fort Yargo State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 40 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Athens, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Athens, GA.

  • What parks are near Athens, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Athens, GA that allow camping, notably Lake Sidney Lanier and Hartwell Lake.