Trenton, Georgia sits at the base of Lookout Mountain in the northwestern corner of the state. The area features elevations ranging from 700 to over 2,000 feet above sea level with a temperate climate that makes glamping close to Trenton, Georgia possible year-round. Winter lows rarely drop below 30°F, while summer highs typically remain under 90°F, creating favorable conditions for outdoor accommodations throughout most seasons.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, the strenuous path to Cherokee Falls rewards visitors with swimming opportunities. "This is a workout for sure wear your good shoes, A LOT of metal grate steps to get down to the falls! We went right at the next intersection and continued down to Hemlock Falls. A very picturesque and cool area," notes Shelly S.
Lake activities: Paddle boats and fishing are available at Fort Mountain State Park Campground, which centers around a 17-acre spring-fed lake. One camper mentioned, "The lake area - a small 17 acre spring fed lake is here for your fishing, paddling and swimming pleasure. The area also has putt putt, the only playground, seasonal concession and rentals, beach area."
Tennessee Wall climbing: Rock climbing options exist at Tennessee Wall Camp, a dispersed camping area with fire pits. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing," reports Suzie K.
What campers like
Private platform sites: Fort Mountain State Park offers unique elevated sleeping platforms located away from the main campground. "I've never slept outside of a tent. I've always wanted to, but never had the guts to do it. The site itself was in a beautiful location, had a hand pump on site, and also had a shared bear proof storage box," shared Miranda H. about her first platform camping experience.
West Rim camping area: Cloudland Canyon's West Rim section provides more seclusion than other areas. "The West Rim camping loop has a total of 48 tent/RV sites with 30 or 50A hookups, water, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. This loop is far more wooded and offers a greater variety of site size and privacy," explains Stephanie J.
Tent-only walk-in sites: Chester Frost Park offers lakeside camping with dedicated areas for different camping styles. "Sites near the lake have easy access to the water," says Laura C., while another visitor mentioned, "Wonderful camping spot. Definitely would recommend to a friend."
What you should know
Steep terrain challenges: The mountainous geography creates steeply graded campsites at several locations. The Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA presents navigation difficulties for larger RVs. "Takes a while to get back to this campground, as it's a little remote, but it's a pretty location nestled in the foothills of the mountains. Some of the roads and RV sites are a little difficult to get into," explains Jason B.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active in the mountain areas. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," reports Shelly C. at Fort Mountain State Park, while another camper noted that "Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here."
Varying site privacy: Site selection significantly impacts camping experience. "Loop #1 does not have any lakefront sites, and is closed to drive-thru traffic without reservations. Loop #2 is wooded and shady, though smaller than the sites in loop #1," notes one Fort Mountain visitor. At Cloudland Canyon, "Sites 4-9 are well spaced from each other and great for tent campers and families who want their kids to have room to play."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Marion County Park offers family-friendly water activities close to Trenton. "Swimming, soccer, baseball, boating, disc golf, para course all right here. Water and electric at site and dump site. At $20 it was a nice stop for a night," mentions Cori H.
Kid-friendly campground amenities: Several campsites feature dedicated recreation areas. At Lookout Mountain KOA, "Kids loved the pool and jumping pillow," says Jill P., while another visitor mentions, "Huge jumping pad they have... an amazing addition, especially for families who may be staying here long-term and need a way for their kids to get some energy out!"
Advance planning for yurt stays: Luxury glamping accommodations near Trenton, Georgia fill quickly, especially at Skyland Ridge Yurt Vacation Rental. "This property offers 2 Yurts, surrounded by nature and mountains," notes Ashley F., making it ideal for families seeking more comfortable accommodations without bringing extensive gear.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully based on size and terrain. At Fort Mountain, "Several of the sites have 'patios' with gravel on hard packed dirt, NOT conducive for stakes! I noticed several sites had areas off to the side where people had set up tents near the fire rings," explains one camper.
Full-service options: Some campgrounds offer extensive hookup options. "All sites are 30/50 amp with water. Grey water drains are located around the campground. There is a dump station. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring too," notes a reviewer about Fort Mountain State Park.
Cell service limitations: Mountain terrain impacts connectivity. At Fort Mountain, "We had inconsistent cell coverage even with a Winegard booster with AT&T and Verizon. Mornings were best reception and evening were not so good," reports one camper, which requires advance planning for remote work needs or emergency communications.
