Fort Yargo State Park Campground sits on the eastern edge of Winder at 210 S. Broad Street, providing several camping options across two distinct loops. Most sites feature water and electric hookups, with a centralized dump station for RV waste. Winter temperatures typically range from 32-55°F, while summer months bring highs between 85-95°F with high humidity. The camping area connects directly to the 260-acre lake via designated trails and access points.
What to do
Fishing from campsites: At Fort Yargo State Park Campground, lakeside sites offer direct water access for fishing. "Lakeside camping... I recently had a campsite right by the lake with a great view. It is dog friendly," notes Bob V., who found the fishing access convenient without needing to drive to a separate area.
Boat ramp access: Bald Ridge Creek campground includes a boat ramp with reasonably large parking area. "We like to kayak to islands, collect rocks and take lots of pictures. Water is warm, a little muddy by shore but clear as you get further out," says Christy C., highlighting the accessibility for water craft.
Mountain biking trails: Hard Labor Creek State Park features dedicated mountain biking paths separate from hiking trails. A visitor noted, "The park has hiking trails, mini golf, newly 'renovated' campsites that include two BRAND new bathhouses. Mini golf, newly renovated!" The mountain biking trails are well-maintained and clearly marked according to campers.
Wildlife viewing: Campers can spot deer and other wildlife throughout the day at most area campgrounds. "Set back in the woods on a beautiful pond. Deer roaming everywhere," reports Todd L. from his stay at Fort Yargo, where wildlife sightings are common in early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Walk-in sites: Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground offers walk-in campsites for those seeking more privacy. "The campground is not cramped at all and most of the sites are spread apart to provide privacy!" explains George & Patty C., who appreciate the secluded feeling compared to other campgrounds in the area.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds near Winder maintain exceptionally clean bathhouses. At Don Carter State Park, "The campground hosts were friendly and they kept the bath houses/laundry facilities spotless!" according to one visitor, while another noted "Bathhouse showers clean" as a key amenity.
Level camping pads: Stone Mountain Park Campground provides level campsites that require minimal setup effort. "Sites are nice and large, flat (we didn't even need to get out our levels). They are arranged in a way that you don't feel close to your neighbor," says Laura M., highlighting the ease of setup for both tents and RVs.
Laundry access: Several campgrounds offer on-site laundry facilities for longer stays. At Hard Labor Creek, "The bath houses/comfort stations are brand new (including laundry rooms) and the camp hosts keep them spotless!" allowing campers to refresh clothing during extended trips without leaving the park.
What you should know
No alcohol policies: Shady Grove Campground strictly enforces their no-alcohol policy. "If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here. Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00. No warning," warns Rick B., emphasizing the zero-tolerance approach.
Asphalt camping pads: Some newer campgrounds like Don Carter State Park feature paved sites rather than natural surfaces. "The RV campground features all paved campsites so it would be tough camping in a tent (no way to stake your tent)," points out a reviewer, noting this creates challenges for traditional tent campers who need to stake down.
Weekend crowds: Hard Labor Creek becomes significantly busier on weekends. A camper reported, "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."
Limited cell service: Fort Yargo and several surrounding campgrounds have spotty cell phone coverage. "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!" notes one visitor who appreciated the forced digital detox.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Don Carter State Park Campground offers a playground area convenient to camping loops. "We loved that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," Cameron G. explains, highlighting the kid-friendly amenities.
Beach swimming areas: Most lake campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with beach access. "Great swimming and hiking," Barbara C. says of Fort Yargo's beach facilities, which provide a safer alternative to swimming directly from campsites where underwater obstacles might be present.
Biking-friendly roads: Paved campground roads throughout the area create safe cycling spaces for children. "We had an amazing visit!! All the staff were extremely helpful and sweet. Shower house was clean, laser show fabulous and while hiking we saw a lot of beautiful wildlife!!!" mentions Jennifer T. about Stone Mountain, where families can bike throughout the camping loops.
Glamping options: For families new to camping, glamping in Winder, Georgia provides comfort without roughing it. At Margaritaville, "The campsite was perfect and clean. The staff was super friendly and helpful. The resort was immaculate," shares Brandi T., noting the amenities that make family stays easier.
Tips from RVers
Dump station lines: Weekend checkout times create bottlenecks at single dump stations. At Bald Ridge Creek, "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal," notes AR M., suggesting RVers plan accordingly or dump earlier when possible.
Off-season availability: Winter camping offers more solitude at popular glamping spots near Winder. "Nice to find a RV winter themed vacation spot," shares Alyson about Margaritaville, where amenities remain open year-round with fewer crowds during cooler months.
Grey water disposal: Some campgrounds provide convenient grey water dump facilities at individual sites. "Great campground, near shopping and restaurants. Great hiking trail around the lake. No FHU, but they do have grey water dumps in numerous places in campground," explains Judi P. about Fort Yargo's RV accommodations.
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require substantial leveling for larger rigs. "Our site was very level, and pull through," notes one Fort Yargo visitor, while others caution, "Only reason for the 4 stars is our site was not level, took some work to level our rig" at other locations like Shady Grove.
