Best Camping near Watkinsville, GA

Are you in need of a campground near Watkinsville, GA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Georgia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Watkinsville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Watkinsville, GA (105)

    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
    182 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
    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
    422 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
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing

    5. North Shore Landing

    14 Reviews
    42 Photos
    39 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 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

    6. Don Carter State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    158 Photos
    186 Saves
    Lula, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of Lake Sidney Lanier

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Cabins
    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

    7. Pine Lake RV Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    37 Saves
    Bishop, Georgia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    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

    8. Tugaloo State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    151 Photos
    182 Saves
    Fair Play, South Carolina

    This recreation area is part of Hartwell Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    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

    9. Victoria Bryant State Park Campground

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

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee River Campground

    10. Oconee River Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    53 Saves
    Maxeys, Georgia

    Located along the bank of the Oconee River, this recreation area offers camping, picnicking, hiking, boating and fishing. Five campsites with tables, tent pads and grills are available to campers. Main road through campground is paved. Some of the campsites are accessible to people with disabilities, as are the restrooms. Drinking water is not available at this time.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
Showing results 1-10 of 105 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Watkinsville

Recent Reviews in Watkinsville

656 Reviews of 105 Watkinsville Campgrounds


  • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panola Mountain State Park Campground
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Panola Mountain State Park Campground

    Everything as promised

    We did an overnighter to check this out after doing a separate hike on the primary trails from the other side of the park in the morning. 

    Getting to the campsite was simple enough and it is the quoted 3/4 mile walk in. It was great to see some families utilizing the space. There is good cell reception (T-Mobile)

    Very peaceful and even had the sounds of a vibrant coyote pack.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Lawrence Shoals Campground
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Lawrence Shoals Campground

    Stunning Views

    This is my second time here, first was a scouting trip and stayed only a few days.  This trip I brought my family and stayed 9 days.  Autumn is beautiful but we were probably a week or two early for the full color change of the trees.  The weather was a little warm for Oct./Nov. but we're from Florida and anything cooler and less humid is welcome.The trails have been maintained and new markers put in place.  Bath houses were clean and tidy and the camp crew kept everything neat , they even blew the leaves off of the road every morning.  Kudos to Georgia Power for keeping such a great campground with large spaces between campers and still remaining cozy.

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground

    Beautiful Trees with a cool breeze

    This place was great. We arrived after hours and spoke with the camp host he told us we can pay online or in the morning. We drove all day in the sun and due to hurricane Helene aftermath we were limited on where to stay. It was nice to pull in and it be nice and cool with the trees. The stars popped out at night and could be seen through the tree tops. Showers were hot.

  • Camen K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Campground
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Sunset Campground

    Unprofessional

    Very rude and unhelpful said he would call me back to let me know if there was any openings. He never called back.

  • Alexandra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Creek Campground
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Paynes Creek Campground

    Hidden gem!

    I loved everything about this campground. The sites all have beautiful views and lake access, they are decently apart from each other. And has great signal! I was getting consistent 5G 3 bars at least with Verizon. The bathrooms don't have showers so plan accordingly

  • Tamra J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tiny Cabin
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Tiny Cabin

    Comfortable and cozy

    Hosts were amazing and accommodating. We stayed for 2 nights for a soccer tournament and it was the perfect location. Not on the listing was an outdoor shower and my sweaty soccer son loved it. The ceiling fan and air conditioning unit do a great job of cooling in this GA heat. There was a small desk where I was able to do some work. Will definitely book again.

  • b
    Camper-submitted photo from Parks Ferry Campground
    Sep. 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.

  • Christine The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Aug. 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Duckett Mill
    Aug. 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.

  • Micah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tyler Hunt Camp
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Tyler Hunt Camp

    Secluded Until It Wasn’t

    I enjoyed my stay here during the day, but things changed after dark. There were old weedeaters scattered in the weeds, along with grills and other items that seemed to have been tossed into the woods. I initially brushed it off and didn't think much of it. I was the only one camping at this site. As night fell, I began preparing for bed, but I noticed vehicles coming and going—at least three within an hour. Around 10 PM, a few Mustangs pulled up and sat for about 45 minutes. Feeling uneasy about the situation, I decided to pack up and leave. After sharing my experience with a few friends, many of them expressed their own concerns about this location. I give it 3 stars for the beauty and peacefulness... until nightfall.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Aug. 12, 2024

    North Shore Landing

    Beautiful sunset over the lake easy to access love the train theme

    Beautiful location with a train themed well organized and super helpful staff. Tiered topography lends to beautiful lake and sunset views Used showers and laundry and both were great

  • Nik J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolding Mill
    Aug. 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.

  • Angela B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone Mountain Park Campground
    Jul. 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.

  • Kevin A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Landing
    Jul. 3, 2024

    North Shore Landing

    Camground is now a KOA

    On my way back from Florida to the NC mountains, I spent a night at the KOA campground on Lake Oconee in Greensboro, GA. I was in a full hook-up pull-through site#44. As you can see from the photos, the campground is right on the lake and has many campsites. The campground staff was accommodating during check-in and when getting to my site. However, the campground itself is pretty worn. Roads are poor. Decking at sites needs repair. At $108.90, for one night, there is little reinvestment in the campground grounds and facilities. The local area is proliferating with many upscale homes and businesses. I expected a more updated set of facilities. Site#44 has a lake view, which is nice, but it is one of 3 sites butted up end to end on the side of the road, with the site to my left currently unusable with some repair work going on. The site has a sizeable two-tier deck, grill, and firepit, but it had not been cleaned off in some time, with chairs and tree debris strewn around. I would skip this campground if I were back in the area.

  • Kevin A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tugaloo State Park Campground
    Jul. 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.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Salem Park Campground
    Jun. 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.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Lawrence Shoals Campground
    Jun. 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,

  • Katrina P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Duckett Mill
    Jun. 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.

  • ERIC G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Atlanta Glamping
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Atlanta Glamping

    Gem so close to Atlanta

    Lots of quality quiet time short walk to Arabia Mountain part hiking fishing and bike riding saw people roller skating also. Very unique place I’ve visited to many times to list for extended periods it’s my get away from the crazy city place

  • L
    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!

  • L
    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

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Russell Recreation Area
    Apr. 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.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Grove Campground
    Apr. 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.



Guide to Watkinsville

Camping near Watkinsville, Georgia, offers a variety of beautiful spots to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground, have stunning trails. One visitor mentioned, "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."
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Mistletoe State Park Campground, you can find great fishing spots and places to launch kayaks. A camper shared, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!"
  • Family Activities: Many parks host seasonal events. One reviewer at Stone Mountain Park Campground noted, "In October, there are different activities for the kids, like Fall fest and Halloween parade."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at High Falls State Park Campground said, "The amenities were clean."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Don Carter State Park Campground remarked, "Clean and well-maintained including the facilities."
  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Tugaloo State Park Campground offer beautiful lake views. A camper noted, "We had a view of the lake through the tall pines that provided some shade."

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper 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. A visitor at Stone Mountain Park Campground pointed out, "On top of the $70 a night, you must pay a $20 parking fee."
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at High Falls State Park Campground noted, "There is very little cell phone service—AT&T has none."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. One camper at Mistletoe State Park Campground said, "A nice sensory playground right across from site 24."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check the campground's schedule for family events. A visitor at Stone Mountain Park Campground mentioned, "Tons of things to do train rides, gondola ride to the top, hiking and fireworks."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring items that make camping easier for kids, like portable games or outdoor toys. A camper at Fort Yargo State Park Campground noted, "We took to the pathways with our dog and enjoyed the many animals roaming through the woods."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at High Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are not large but adequate."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, check for campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Don Carter State Park Campground appreciated the "grey tank hookup which is nice."
  • Be Mindful of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A visitor at Tugaloo State Park Campground noted, "The roads in the campground are steep and hilly."

Camping near Watkinsville, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the friendly atmosphere at these campgrounds!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Watkinsville, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Watkinsville, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 105 campgrounds and RV parks near Watkinsville, GA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

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

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

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Watkinsville, GA.

  • What parks are near Watkinsville, GA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Watkinsville, GA that allow camping, notably Lake Sidney Lanier and Hartwell Lake.