Tent campsites near West Point, Georgia provide additional options beyond the riverfront locations at Bush Head Shoals. The region sits along the Chattahoochee River watershed where Georgia meets Alabama, with elevations ranging from 600-700 feet. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F, making water access valuable for tent campers seeking relief from heat.
What to do
Hunting seasons awareness: At Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area, campers should check the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website before visiting. "Visitors should also be aware of the active hunting seasons, indicating times when the WMA is frequented by hunters," notes Lonnie B., emphasizing preparation and safety requirements.
Military history exploration: Tent camping at Kings Pond/Fort Benning provides access to historical military sites. "Although it's on post, and you can still hear training some nights, You feel as if you're a million miles away," writes Nikki W. Night camping includes occasional distant training sounds that add to the unique atmosphere.
Kayaking with rentals: Paddling opportunities extend beyond public boat launches, with rental options available. "We camped 3 nights and also rented a Kayak. The Chattahoochee Outdoors family are awesome. We floated and hiked and had an amazing time," reports Christy R. about her experience camping in the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Bush Head Shoals Park offers well-spaced tent camping areas. "The campground was clean, the sites were extremely spacious. You could easily fit two 6 person tents," Michael P. notes. Sites include ample room for gear organization without crowding neighboring campers.
Night sky viewing: The West Point area provides good stargazing conditions with limited light pollution. "We are normally private land secluded campers and avoid public campgrounds; however this one is so nice and spacious and CLEAN that we will definitely be back," writes Christy R. The clear night skies offer views of stars typically obscured near urban centers.
Wildlife observation: The woodlands around West Point contain diverse native species. "There is plenty of room for all my fishing tackle, coolers, and chairs in each spot. The area is very well kept and far out from large roads so it is always quiet enough to hear the birds," Justin K. comments on the natural environment.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal coverage varies significantly in camping areas around West Point. "No cell coverage, has fire pit, mostly tent and car campers," reports Lenear B. about Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area. Campers should download maps and information beforehand.
License requirements: Georgia Wildlife Management Areas have specific permit requirements. "Important to note is the requirement for a valid Georgia hunting or fishing license to camp, reflecting the area's primary use for hunting and fishing activities," Lonnie B. explains. Licenses can be purchased online or from local retailers.
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive tent camping sites may require preparation. "We found this campsite while looking for an overnighter while traveling. We are on a motorcycle so we checked with Raven to make sure we would be good. The roads are gravel but well maintained," notes Ron G. about conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate sites: When tent camping with children near West Point, some locations offer better facilities. "They have 6 camp sites that all have a picnic table, fire pit and a large fine gravel plot for a tent. All the components are extremely well kept," Julia M. shares about her experience with young children at Bush Head Shoals Park.
Self-contained preparation: Many sites lack facilities, requiring additional planning. "Must be self sufficient to stay here. Its free and at night can be noisy due to the boot camp training (you'll hear gunshots and artillery in the distance) but otherwise no one bothers you," Joshua B. advises about camping at Fort Benning.
Trail access for kids: Family-friendly hiking opportunities exist directly from campsites. "There is a nice hiking trail right across from site 1. There were plenty of trees around the sites to hang hammocks," explains Michael P. Short trails provide activity options without extensive travel.
Tips from RVers
Generator requirements: The primitive nature of most West Point area tent camping sites means power planning is essential. "I have a 5th wheel and its pretty flat gravel roads, no electric or sewage or water; only a pit toilet. We stayed with a generator and there is a gas station nearby (roughly 4-5 miles away)," reports Joshua B. from Kings Pond/Fort Benning.
Small trailer access: Some tent camping areas accommodate modest trailers. "I went with a travel trailer," Lenear B. mentions about camping at Joe Kurz Wildlife Management Area, though most visitors use tents or car camping setups.
Supply availability: Limited services near camping areas require advance stocking. "For the price, you won't find a better campground," notes Ron G., adding that campers should prepare without expectation of power or water hookups.
