Lake Allatoona provides the backdrop for most Waleska-area campgrounds, with water levels that fluctuate seasonally affecting shoreline access. The red clay soil characteristic of northwest Georgia can create challenges for tent stake placement at several campgrounds, especially after rainfall. Campgrounds around Lake Allatoona stay open seasonally with McKinney Campground being one of the few offering year-round availability.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Amicalola Falls State Park is home to Georgia's tallest waterfall at 730 feet. "This 730ft cascading waterfall is accessible by stairs and bridge from top to bottom. It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better," notes Fain H. of Amicalola Falls State Park Camping.
Fish for diverse species: Lake Allatoona offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for crappie. "We always stop here on our trips down to florida and we always stay a couple days as we love to get a waterfront site and they are nice, clean sites with lots of shade and pet friendly. We love to fish and we always catch several kinds but the crappie are so delicious," shares Robin M. about Mckinney Campground.
Explore historical sites: The area features Civil War-era landmarks accessible via hiking trails. "We also love the historical trails that lead to the old civil war mill. it's a great hike," mentions Elaine G. about Sweetwater Campground.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access from individual 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!" raves Cari H. about Sweetwater Campground.
Private, wooded settings: Sites at several campgrounds provide seclusion despite proximity to Atlanta. "Most sites are waterfront or has access to the lake, that is a plus. The lake area is tranquil and quiet. My site (53) had water, electricity, grill, firepit, a table, & access to the lake (10-steps-trail)," explains Adriana C. about Victoria Campground.
Accessibility for non-campers: Campgrounds accommodate both experienced campers and newcomers. "Sweetwater welcomed us to camping and made us campers for life!" shares Linda S., highlighting how dog-friendly campgrounds near Waleska can provide a gentle introduction to outdoor experiences.
What you should know
Train noise impacts some campgrounds: Railroad proximity affects sleep quality at certain locations. "If you are in a tent... you will hear I-75 traffic all night so keep in mind, that while it looks like country, you are not deep in nature... the drone of the highway will remind you. There is a train that blows its whistle that will wake you up 3 times each night," warns Jeff E. about Red Top Mountain State Park Campground.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have fewer bathhouses than expected given their size. "There is only one small restroom facility (men and women's divided) for 51 sites which is unusual for COE campgrounds," notes Annell N. about McKaskey Creek Campground.
Security concerns: Some campgrounds experience theft despite gated access. "After discussing the issue with the campground staff, we were informed that locals often come through the woods and even wade through the edge of the lake to steal from the campground," cautions Chris C. after an incident at Clark Creek North Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Great family campground. The attendant's are friendly and helpful. Lots of nearby things to do," mentions Malinda C. about the pet-friendly campground options near Waleska at Sweetwater.
Consider pool access: Some private campgrounds include swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. "The campground has a pool and 2 playgrounds. Great for kids," notes Brandi about Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing.
Look for insect exploration opportunities: The wooded environment provides educational wildlife viewing. "My teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth," shares Traci C. about her experience at Amicalola Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Check campground road conditions: Several campgrounds have narrow, potholed roads challenging for larger vehicles. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. 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," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Verify site leveling requirements: Sloped sites may require additional equipment. "We have a 27' airstream and there are a couple campsites that are hard to get into. Number 18 does not look hard, but the layout is very difficult to get into. The bend halfway into the campground would be extremely difficult with much bigger than 27' camper," advises Soren B. about the conditions at Amicalola Falls.
Watch for railroad crossing clearance: Low clearance at entrances can present challenges for larger rigs. "Notice - the campground entrance is located between 2 railroad crossings and each have low ground clearance and located in turns (the turns seemed to help a bit rather than a straight on approach)," cautions Logan about Marina Resort - Allatoona Landing.
