Camping options near Union Point, Georgia range from lakeside getaways to forested retreats within a 30-mile radius of town. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round, though water levels at lake locations can vary seasonally, with September often showing lower levels in reservoirs and streams. Winter camping can provide more solitude with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: At A. H. Stephens State Park Campground, numerous hiking opportunities exist within the park. "We hiked from the campground to Lake Buncombe and also hiked from Sunset Drive trail to Lake Liberty and the office. Equestrian trails are closed to hiking during the weekend," reports one camper who enjoyed exploring the rolling terrain.
Mountain biking: Lawrence Shoals Campground features extensive trail systems designed for various skill levels. "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," notes a visitor who appreciated the well-maintained paths.
Historical exploration: The area offers significant historical sites, particularly at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground. The park includes newly renovated facilities and historical features. One visitor mentioned, "HLC features hiking trails, mini golf, newly 'renovated' campsites that include two BRAND new bathhouses (comfort stations)," making it suitable for history enthusiasts and outdoor recreationists alike.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes in the region provide excellent fishing conditions. At North Shore Landing, anglers find diverse fishing opportunities. "Located on Lake Oconee, North Shore Landing is a KOA/TRA campground. There is a dock to fish from, and a boat launch if you want to go out," a visitor explains, adding details about the catch: "There's also bass, blue gill and crappie."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area pride themselves on cleanliness. At Mistletoe State Park Campground, visitors consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were very clean and well-maintained, although when I was here in September (during the week), the whole place was basically deserted anyway," notes one reviewer about the off-season experience.
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out. "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! Comfort station was very clean, hosts available if needed and the campground wasn't overly packed with campers on top of each other," a visitor observed.
Lake access: Direct water access ranks high for campers in the region. One visitor to Old Salem Park Campground shared their experience: "This campground is all about the lake. Not just because its on a lake, but because with no real trails or other sites to see in the near by area its definitely this parks main focus. Situated on a little peninsula on Lake Oconnee in Georgia, this Georgia Power owned campground has 83 car sites and 8 tent sites."
Winter experiences: Some parks offer special seasonal activities. "We stopped here for one night in December, passing through. The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen," reported a winter visitor to A.H. Stephens State Park, highlighting off-season opportunities.
What you should know
Ant issues: Some lakeside properties report significant ant problems during summer months. "This is a beautiful campground right on the water but they have a very serious ant infestation. When I say they are everywhere I mean OMG they are literally everywhere in swarms and now including all in our camper," warned one visitor to North Shore Landing.
Water levels fluctuate: The region's lakes and streams can have dramatically different water levels depending on season. A visitor to Oconee River Campground noted, "This trail was supposed to involve several water crossings, but when I was here in September, the water level was extremely low and nothing was flowing beyond a trickle. Water in the streams was mostly still and quite murky."
Highway noise: Proximity to interstate highways affects some camping experiences. "The noise from I20, which is very close, comes over the weekend after to flood the campground with truck and traffic sound 24 hours," reported a camper at North Shore Landing, suggesting midweek stays for those seeking quiet.
Varying cell service: Connectivity differs widely across the best places to camp near Union Point, Georgia. "Cell phone service is very spotty in the park but that is alright with us, camping is about getting AWAY and enjoying the outdoors, not staring at your electronic devices!" mentioned a visitor to Hard Labor Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach swimming areas: Several parks offer designated swimming areas ideal for children. "The park had a beautiful little beach, boat slips which you can rent for your boat, a lots of fun for the kids," noted a visitor to North Shore Landing who camped during Memorial Day weekend.
Kid-friendly fishing: BoMax Ranch and Retreat provides accessible fishing for younger anglers. "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids," shared one parent about their experience at a nearby lake access point, making it one of the top family camping spots near Union Point.
Playgrounds and activities: Family-centered amenities exist throughout the region's campgrounds. "There is a pool, clubhouse and 24 hour laundry that's $3 per load, w&d. There's a dog park, basketball and cornhole," reported a visitor to North Shore Landing, highlighting multiple activities for children.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer learning experiences alongside recreation. "We loved the historical museum there too," commented a visitor to A.H. Stephens State Park, noting the educational value for families camping with school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend researching specific sites before booking. At Hard Labor Creek State Park, a camper advised, "The weekend nights were so crowded with cars spilling into the camp roads, loads of large groups at each site. Felt very claustrophobic. On weekdays the park became a (lovely) ghost town," suggesting timing visits strategically.
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary significantly across campgrounds near Union Point. One RVer at Lawrence Shoals noted, "My wife and I booked site 1 after there was nothing else available, literally, in the entire state. We arrived Friday afternoon, first impression is that the park is extremely well maintained. The hosts were very friendly, and very accommodating after learning that our site actually wasn't suitable for our tent."
Low bridge warnings: Access routes can present challenges for larger rigs. A visitor to North Shore Landing cautioned, "Depending on the road you take in watch for a low train bridge that appears tall but the road goes up on the other side and it will get you," highlighting the need to plan travel routes carefully when bringing larger RVs to the best camping areas near Union Point, Georgia.
