Mckinney Campground
Best time of ma life
I had one of tha best times at McKinney campground.. tha water is perfect and its so pretty .. the people that runs it also was very polite and very kind.. I highly recommend this locations
273 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The northern Georgia landscape surrounding Milton offers a mix of established campgrounds and recreational areas within an hour's drive. Red Top Mountain State Park, located about 30 miles northwest near Acworth, provides year-round camping with options for tents, RVs, cabins, and yurts. Lake Allatoona serves as the backdrop for several Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds including McKinney, Victoria, and Payne, which typically operate from March through October. Closer to Milton, Shady Grove and Bald Ridge Creek campgrounds on Lake Lanier provide seasonal camping with varying levels of amenities. Stone Mountain Park, approximately 40 miles southeast, offers a comprehensive camping experience with boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access.
Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the region, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. Many sites require advance booking through recreation.gov or the Georgia State Parks reservation system. Cell service varies significantly across the area, with some campgrounds reporting limited or no coverage in certain sections. As one camper noted, "There is no cell service in many areas. You can drive up the road about a mile to a cell tower to get service." Summer humidity and heat can be challenging, especially at lower elevations. According to another visitor, "Fort Mountain is usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia's summer heat much more enjoyable."
Lakefront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, though they typically book months in advance. The topography around many lakes creates unique camping experiences, with some sites featuring significant elevation changes. One reviewer at Doll Mountain described how "most sites will not offer beach-style walk-in access to the lake due to the park being higher in elevation with more cliff-like edges." Wildlife encounters, including bears, are reported at several campgrounds, particularly those at higher elevations or near forest boundaries. Campers frequently mention the quality of hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and water recreation as highlights. When searching for campgrounds near Milton, you'll find facilities vary widely, with state parks generally offering more amenities like showers and laundry, while Corps of Engineers sites may have more basic services but often feature more spacious sites.
"I stayed at the walk- in campsites with waterfront view and access to walk down to the water. There is no electric at site and water didn’t work."
"Many were positioned right on the lake. The trails in the park were great for hiking and running. We enjoyed visiting the Qualusi Winery that was nearby."
from $40 - $275 / night
Check Availability"These are two completely different parks in two completely different parts of Georgia. SCofA does not have a mill, ruins, river or mountain trails. It does have a lake. Allatoona Lake."
"Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc."
from $24 - $290 / night
Check Availability"Lived in Georgia my whole life and yet my first time to Stone Mountain was literally three years ago. Now we have an annual pass and go all the time."
"One of the best camping areas in Georgia."
from $44 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Site 10 (on water) and 38 (next to playground."
"Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"
from $26 - $36 / night
Check Availability"This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."
"If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."
from $20 - $240 / night
Check Availability"This campground is full of beautiful lakeside sites! Many are well-spaced, but some are close together. We camped with our van in one of the tent sites because the rv sites were full."
"I didn't get a chance to snap pictures or videos but it is nestled along the shore of Lake Allatoona."
from $24 - $68 / night
Check Availability"The offices closes at 6:30, but if you don’t get there on time like we did they leave your reservation info outside the door."
"There was a nice flat area to set up food, bonfire, chairs, games and to lounge around with family and the dogs. Bathrooms were nice and close to campground, within walking distance."
"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."
"Lots of sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet."
"Wanted to know every detail of everyone in our party, and my husband came late and I have to give notice for him to join us ( the campground is gated) Now the positives- It’s right on beautiful lake Allatoona"
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"Georgia Veteran’s Memorial State Park, McKinney Campground on Allatoona Lake (north of Atlanta; a Corp of Engineer park) - very woodsy and a nice lake. Hiking, rafting/etc, and walking all around."
"Campground Review: This campground is an excellent place to stay not far outside of the bustling metropolis of Atlanta."
from $30 - $34 / night
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I had one of tha best times at McKinney campground.. tha water is perfect and its so pretty .. the people that runs it also was very polite and very kind.. I highly recommend this locations
Great location small river but absolutely NO Cell service of any kind.
They have plenty of pads for pull behinds or the fancy RV. Plenty of hookups for all your needs. 2 pools, weight room, live music, restaurant, bar, dog park, dog bath, and close to all local stores.
We had a wonderful 2-night stay at Timberline Glamping River Forks! The tent was clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully set up with everything we needed. Being right on Lake Lanier made the experience even more special, with easy lake access for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the beautiful views. The peaceful atmosphere was perfect for relaxing and unwinding while still enjoying outdoor adventures. The hosts were friendly, responsive, and made everything easy from start to finish. If you’re looking for a unique glamping experience with comfort, nature, and lake activities all in one place, Timberline Glamping River Forks is a great choice. We can’t wait to visit again!
Clean and well maintained, staff is friendly and helpful. Some spaces are on grade so leveling can be a bit of a challenge.
We have been here twice. Site 10 (on water) and 38 (next to playground. The sites are huge, everything is clean, hot steady flow water can be tricky but as a mom of 7, I love that it feels secluded but is close to target and Publix! Love this place and it is our go to when we visit the North Georgia Revival. Highly recommend!
We have now been to this campground three times - twice in the fall and now this last time in the spring. The fall foliage is beautiful and it's fun to get apples and such in Ellijay.
This time, there was definitely more boat and Jet Ski traffic, but did not take away from the beauty of the campground. The bathroom is older, but clean, and a bit of a hike down a hill and then back up the hill from the loop we were in, but not bad. We were glad to have a clean place to shower, nevertheless. There are lots of trees and the sites are rather spacious and nice, having water and electric hookups. Our site was lovely with a concrete pad and nice deck.
We have Verizon and had service at the site. We enjoyed our little mountain getaway very much!
I stayed at the walk- in campsites with waterfront view and access to walk down to the water. There is no electric at site and water didn’t work. The bathroom facilities are well maintained and whole place is really clean. This site was right next to parking other 3 are close but wagon recommended to haul items to other walk on sites.
Gorgeous campground on the lake with excellent facilities. Priority along the lake front is given to tent sites, which is nice. There's a mix of sizes for small campers and big RVs so it never feels crowded. Not a huge amount to do in the area except chill on the lake or at your site in the woods... which is fine by me. The one shortcoming was difficult lake access from the campground. There are plenty of beach areas when the lake is low but getting to them can be challenging. There's a public beach in another part of the park but we didn't go there.
Camping options near Milton, Georgia offer access to several lake-based outdoor settings with unique terrain characteristics. Sites range from 500-1100 feet in elevation, creating distinct microclimates across different campgrounds. Most campgrounds show seasonal operation patterns, with many Corps of Engineers sites closing between late September and mid-March, requiring advance planning for fall camping trips.
Fishing opportunities: Stone Mountain Park Campground provides year-round access to its lake with multiple fishing spots. "We loved these grounds. They were clean and there was easy access to bathrooms. The hike to the top was a challenge, but the views were worth it," notes camper Judy B.
Water recreation: Bald Ridge Creek features swim areas and boat launch points for lake activities. One camper reported, "The beach is nice for the kids. Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal."
Hiking trails: Victoria Campground offers walking paths that connect to lake access points. A visitor shared, "Quiet, refreshing, even the wooded sites off the lake rock." The campground includes areas for both active recreation and peaceful lake viewing.
Wildlife observation: Many campsites report regular deer sightings, particularly at dawn and dusk. "We saw a lot of beautiful wildlife!!!" one camper at Stone Mountain Park mentioned, making morning and evening hours prime wildlife viewing times.
Cooler temperatures: Sweetwater Campground offers significant shade coverage at many sites. "Beautiful area of camping spots around the lake. Very good infrastructure, showers, bathrooms, etc. For pad or by your car camping, easy access to the lake, and close to home around Canton Woodstock area YOU CAN'T BEAT IT!" reports Cari H.
Water access: Most popular campsites provide either direct water access or short trails to the shoreline. "We camped right next to the beach and the kids loved it. beautiful place," shared Rodney G. about Sweetwater Campground.
Campsite privacy: McKinney Campground receives high marks for site spacing. "Sites are large and well placed. Many aItea wIth lakevIew tI choose from. Always see deer and other wild life," notes Susan H.
Year-round options: While many campgrounds close seasonally, several remain open throughout winter. "We spent a weekend here in section O. It was a nice, spacious campsite with a nice picnic table and partial view of the lake even though we didn't have 'lake view' site," shared Tonya B. about Stone Mountain Park Campground.
Site elevation variations: Many campgrounds feature significant grade changes between sites. "Most sites will require some leveling. Our site needed a lot of leveling. But it was totally worth it," one visitor noted.
Reservation windows: Payne Campground fills quickly for summer weekends. "Great campground right on Lake Allatoona! Many lakefront sites available and all within a no wake zone on the lake. Great for swimming and non motorized water activities," Caitlin explains.
Shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The shower house was a little dirty, so that's why I gave 4 stars instead of 5," noted a camper at Stone Mountain Park.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms appear common in afternoon hours. One camper mentioned, "I had wonderful neighbors who showed me the trick. It was my first time, and my neighbors actually helped me with everything, including a fast exit due to impending really bad weather."
Accessible swimming areas: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming beaches for safer water entry. "This campground has a beautiful big beach! Boat ramps also," notes Lauren W. about Victoria Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There is a nice playground that is walking distance from our favorite camp sites that the kids really love," a Shady Grove visitor shared.
Kid-friendly camping: Twin Lakes RV Park offers easier camping for families new to outdoor recreation. "Great place to sit and relax at," says Amy B., making it suitable for families with young children not ready for more primitive sites.
Safety considerations: Water depth changes quickly at some lake access points. A visitor at Shoal Creek noted, "I would not recommend a few of these sites if you have trouble walking around without assistance. There are some inclines without adequate steps or hand holds."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling blocks or equipment. "Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in. Sites were very narrow," cautions Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Limited hookups: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer water and electric but lack sewer connections. "All sites have water and electric. A few have full hook ups. Sites are large and well placed," notes a McKinney Campground visitor.
Site selection strategy: When booking a campsite near Milton, Georgia, check maps carefully for approach angles. "Back in is not straight so it takes alittle bit of maneuvering (that maybe why it was one of the last few sites available a week out)," explains Kevin Z. about Bald Ridge Creek.
Dump station timing: Plan for Sunday morning congestion at dump stations. "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal," noted a camper at Bald Ridge Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Milton, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Milton, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 273 campgrounds and RV parks near Milton, GA and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Milton, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Milton, GA is Red Top Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 81 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Milton, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Milton, GA.
What parks are near Milton, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Milton, GA that allow camping, notably Lake Sidney Lanier and Allatoona Lake.
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