Why Georgia State Parks Are Popular For Camping Trips
Georgia has it all for an outdoorsy adventure: state parks, beaches, and more! Come explore the beauty of the Peach State.
Ever wonder what kinds of adventures you can have in Georgia? Well, me too!
Georgia has some of the most beautiful outdoor locations in the USA. From camping in lush state parks to relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s something here that everyone can get excited about. Whether you’re looking for a tent or an RV campsite, we can provide tips on the best places to camp and visit while you are here. You’ll be able to explore unique wildlife as well as enjoy plenty of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and much more.
Get away from it all while enjoying stunning sunrises and sunsets over breathtaking landscapes. Or take part in adrenaline-pumping water sports like rafting or kayaking because either way, this could very well be the adventure of a lifetime.
Come on this little journey with us as we explore all The Peach State has to offer!
Georgia — A Brief History
First, let’s start with the basics: Georgia was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Creek, Cherokee, and Yuchi peoples. The first European explorers arrived in the area in the 16th century, and in 1732, the British created the colony of Georgia, naming it after King George II.
Over the years, Georgia played a significant role in many major events in American history. During the American Revolution, the state was the site of several important battles and was home to some of the war’s most famous figures, such as General James Oglethorpe and the legendary Swamp Fox, Francis Marion.
In the 19th century, Georgia was a major player in the cotton industry and the site of some of the most significant events in the Civil War. It was also the birthplace of prominent civil rights activists such as Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis, and played an important role in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s.
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
When it comes to the development of Georgia, USA, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in restoring and improving the natural resources of the state during the Great Depression.
Between 1933 and 1942, the CCC employed over 78,000 young men in around 200 camps throughout Georgia, who worked on various projects, including forest management, soil conservation, and agricultural development.
For instance, they planted millions of trees to reforest areas throughout the state, controlled forest fires and insect infestations, constructed numerous fire towers, and built trails, bridges, and roads to connect rural areas with the rest of the state. Additionally, the CCC also focused on improving farmland and building parks, dams, and public facilities.
The involvement of the CCC in Georgia not only brought young men back to work but also helped the state overcome the effects of the Great Depression and laid the foundations for long-term economic and environmental growth.
Current
Today, Georgia is home to many vibrant cities, including Atlanta, which is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its thriving economy. Despite its many ups and downs throughout history, Georgia remains a key player in the story of America and continues to be a beloved home for millions of people.
Georgia State Parks
Georgia State Parks offer a variety of recreational activities and sights to explore. With over 80 state parks and natural areas, visitors can find hiking trails, waterfalls, camping spots, museums, lakes, trailer and RV campsites and even picnic shelters.
Each park includes something unique for visitors to explore, from the abundant wildlife at Providence Canyon Conservation Park to historic sites like Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
Nature enthusiasts will have plenty to keep them occupied whether they’re looking for peaceful solitude or an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Georgia State Parks provide the perfect escape for people of all ages!
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Located in southeast Georgia, Cumberland Island offers visitors a chance to explore unspoiled beaches and maritime forests. There is a small visitor center on the mainland, with most amenities located on the island itself. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $10/person for day use, $30/site for camping. Tent camping is available with basic amenities, including fire rings and picnic tables. There are no RV sites on the island. Activities include hiking, biking, and beachcombing.
Providence Canyon State Park
Located in southwest Georgia, Providence Canyon is known as the “Little Grand Canyon” due to its colorful rock formations. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $25/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. There are no RV sites. Activities include hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
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Cloudland Canyon State Park
Located in northwest Georgia near Rising Fawn, Cloudland Canyon offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and deep canyons. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $30/site for camping. Tent camping is available at West Rim Campground with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, and geocaching.
Skidaway Island State Park
Located in southeast Georgia, Skidaway Island is a popular spot for bird watching and nature walks. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $27/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
Foster State Park
Located in south Georgia, Foster State Park is a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $24/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables, fire rings and flush toilets.
RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, fishing, and boating. A unique feature of this park is that it’s registered as a by the international dark sky association due to its low pollution and some of the darkest skies in the southeast.
Indian Springs State Park
Located in central Georgia, Indian Springs is known for its natural springs and historic buildings. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $30/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, fishing, and swimming.
Mistletoe State Park
Located in east Georgia, Mistletoe has a picturesque lake and plenty of hiking trails. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $28/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, fishing, and boating.
Lake Conasauga Campground
Located in north Georgia, Lake Conasauga is a high-elevation campground surrounded by forests and mountains. There is no visitor center on site. Peak season is May-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $20/site for camping. Tent camping is available with picnic tables and fire rings. There are no RV sites. Activities include hiking, fishing, and swimming.
Unicoi State Park
Located in north Georgia, Unicoi offers stunning mountain views and plenty of outdoor activities. There is a visitor center on site. Peak season is March-October. Fees are $5/person for day use, $30/site for camping. Tent camping is available with water and electric hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. RV sites are also available with full hookups. Activities include hiking, fishing, zip-lining and a rather unique feature in platform camping.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Located in Northeast Georgia and famous for its stunning gorge and impressive waterfalls, the park has a visitor center that provides information about the park and its history. The peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking. There is a $5 per vehicle fee to enter the park. The tent camping sites have access to water, restrooms, and hot showers, while RV camping sites have full hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Situated in the North Georgia Mountains and featuring a 729-foot waterfall, The park has a visitor center that offers information about the park and natural wonders, including trail maps and wildlife exhibits. The peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and zip-lining. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites are equipped with water, restrooms, hot showers, and fire pits, while RV campsites have full hookups and picnic tables.
Fort Yargo State Park
Located in Winder, Georgia, it offers lakefront camping and many outdoor activities. The park has a visitor center that offers information about the park, historical exhibits, and rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing equipment. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and biking. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have water and restrooms, while tent trailer and RV campsites have full hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Mountain State Park
Situated amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northern Georgia, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park does not have a visitor center, as it focuses on providing a natural and rustic experience. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing. There is a $5 per vehicle fee to enter the park. Tent camping sites offer access to water and restrooms, while RV camping is not allowed.
Smith State Park
In southeast Georgia, this park boasts the largest natural stand of flagpole pines in the world. The park does not have a visitor center, but there are pamphlets available with information about the park’s history and geography. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have access to water and restrooms, while RV camping is not allowed.
Elijah Clark State Park
Located on the western shore of Clarks Hill Lake in Georgia, this park is surrounded by abundant oak trees and wildlife. The park has a visitor center and offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, and fishing equipment. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and hiking. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have water and restrooms, while RV camping sites have full hookups and picnic tables.
High Falls State Park
This park is situated in central Georgia and is home to a 135-foot waterfall. The park has a visitor center and offers rentals for boats and fishing equipment. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and fishing. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have access to water and restrooms, while RV camping sites have full hookups and picnic tables.
Vogel State Park
Located in the North Georgia Mountains, it is known for its serene lake and beautiful hiking trails. The park has a visitor center that offers information about the park’s history and wildlife. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy paddling, fishing, and hiking. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have water and restrooms, while RV camping sites have full hookups and picnic tables.
Tugaloo State Park
Situated on the shores of Lake Hartwell in Georgia, this park is an ideal destination for water activities. The park has a visitor center that provides information about the park and offers rentals for boats and fishing equipment. Peak season is from March to November, and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent camping sites have water and restrooms, while RV camping sites have full hookups and picnic tables.
Panola Mountain State Park
Panola Mountain State Park sits in the heart of the Piedmont geographic region. Visitors to the park can take advantage of the state-of-the-art Nature Center, which houses interpretive exhibits and displays local wildlife for visitors to take in. Peak season typically takes place from March to November, when the park is open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset. Admission fees range from $5 for parking to $25 for large group rates. Tent and RV camping sites are also available within the park, each providing various amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. For those who prefer RV camping, there are over twenty sites to choose from, each with easy access to electricity and water hookups. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities from hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching to more adventurous activities such as archery and geocaching.
Backcountry / Primitive Campsites
Backcountry campsites are available in some of the state parks, which offer a more secluded and natural camping experience. These campsites may require permits or reservations and have limited amenities, such as pit toilets and water sources but that is what primitive camping is all about.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing while camping at these sites. Be sure and check with the respective park for any additional permitting require.
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RV Camping
Georgia is a popular RV camping destination for those looking for outdoor adventure and breathtaking natural scenery. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top RV parks in Georgia, each with its unique features and amenities.
Creekwood Resort RV Park, Sautee Nacoochee
Located in the gorgeous Northeast Georgia Mountains, Creekwood Resort RV Park offers both full-hookup RV sites and tent camping. The daily rates for RV sites range from $37 to $46 depending on the season, with weekly and monthly options available at discounted rates. The park is pet-friendly, with a dog park, playground, and outdoor games.
Pine Mountain RV Resort, Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain RV Resort is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, encompassing 200 acres of natural beauty. The RV sites range from standard back-in sites to deluxe pull-throughs, with prices starting at $48 per night. The park features an indoor/outdoor pool, fishing lake, mini-golf course, and even a driving range.
Stone Mountain Park Campground, Stone Mountain
Adjacent to the iconic Stone Mountain, this campground offers full hook-up RV sites, tent camping, and yurt rentals. Prices start at $50 per night for RV camping, with group camping areas available. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing, and access to the Stone Mountain Park attractions, including a laser show and cable car ride.
Coastal Georgia RV Resort, Brunswick
Nestled on Georgia’s coast, this RV resort offers wooded sites with full hook-ups, along with nearby beach access. The daily rates range from $49 to $60, with weekly rates also available. Amenities include a pool, hot tub, playground, and coin laundry facilities.
Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
This state park features shaded RV sites with electric, water, and sewer hook-ups, along with tent camping and cabin rentals. Prices for RV sites start at $30 per night, with discounts for seniors and Georgia residents. The park boasts hiking trails, a fishing dock, and kayak rentals, as well as proximity to Savannah’s historic sites and attractions.
Other Points of Interest
Beyond the many state parks, there are many more opportunities for outdoor adventures in Georgia with its many lake and forests.
Lake Lanier
Lake Lanier, located in the northeastern part of the state, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The peak season is from late May through early September, when the water is warm and perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Fees vary depending on the time of year and the activities you plan to do. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as a fire ring, picnic tables, and access to hot showers and restrooms. RV pull thru sites have electrical and water hookups along with all the amenities provided for tent camping sites. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic surroundings.
Lake Allatoona
Lake Allatoona, located in northwestern Georgia, is another beautiful destination for outdoor activities. The peak season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with fees for day use and camping. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as a fire ring, picnic table, and easy access to restrooms and showers. RV camping sites have electric and water hookups, dump stations, and all the amenities provided for tent camping. Visitors can enjoy water sports, hiking, and fishing.
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain, GA, Pioneer Campsites located in the western part of Georgia is a beautiful place to camp in the fall. The peak season is from late September to November, with fees for day use and camping. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as a fire ring, picnic table, and access to showers and restrooms. RV camping sites have electrical and water hookups along with all the amenities provided in tent camping sites. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and exploring the picturesque natural surroundings.
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell, located in northeastern Georgia, is a great place to camp during the summer months. The peak season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with fees for day use and camping. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and easy access to restrooms and showers. RV camping sites have electric, water, and sewer hookups, along with all the amenities provided for tent camping. Visitors can enjoy water sports, fishing, and hiking.
Strom Thurmond Lake
Strom Thurmond Lake, located in eastern Georgia, also offers great camping opportunities. The peak season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with fees for day use and camping. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and access to showers and restrooms. RV camping sites have electrical and water hookups along with all the amenities provided for tent camping sites. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and exploring the scenic surroundings.
Cooper Creek
Cooper Creek is nestled in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in north Georgia. The peak season is from June to October, with fees for day use and camping. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and easy access to restrooms and showers. RV camping sites have electrical and water hookups along with all the amenities provided for tent camping sites. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and scenic drives in the Chattahoochee National Forest among other activities.
Georgia Coast
The Georgia Coast offers a range of stunning camping locations. The peak season varies depending on the location. Camping fees also vary depending on the location and time of year. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and access to showers and restrooms. RV camping sites have electric and water hookups, along with other amenities provided for tent camping sites. Visitors can enjoy water sports, hiking, and exploring the beaches.
Wildlife Observation Tower
Wildlife observation towers are located throughout Georgia and offer unique camping opportunities. The peak season varies depending on the location, and there are no fees for camping at these locations. Tent camping sites are available with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and access to restrooms. RV camping is not allowed at these locations. Visitors can enjoy wildlife observation, birdwatching, and exploring the natural surroundings.
Fishing in Georgia
Georgia is an angler’s paradise, with some of the best trout and finest bass fishing spots in the country. The Chattahoochee River offers excellent opportunities for catching both species, as do Lake Blue Ridge and Lake Burton. The Coosa River is also a top spot for trout fishing, while the Georgia coast provides plenty of options for bass fishermen.
Fly fishing enthusiasts can head to Amicalola Creek or Dukes Creek — both are great spots for rainbow and brown trout. Finally, Big Nance Creek is a great place to find smallmouth bass. Whatever kind of fisheries adventure you’re looking for, Georgia has something to offer!
Final Thoughts
Overall, camping in Georgia State Parks in Georgia, USA is an unforgettable and unique experience that everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. And, if you live nearby, well, you have no excuse for missing all the spectacular scenery! Whether you opt for a campsite nestled in the mountains or one located in the heart of the forest, there is something for you and everyone else in your family in this beautiful state.
The breathtaking scenery, an abundance of wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities make Georgia State Parks a priority on your list of ideal destinations for your next camping adventure. From swimming, fishing, and paddling in the serene lakes and rivers, to hiking and biking on the trails, Georgia State Parks have it all.
So if you’re looking for an adventure that combines relaxation, fun, and natural beauty, camping in Georgia State Parks is definitely the way to go. And if you want to stay updated on all the exciting adventures that I can dream up, be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more thrilling endeavors!
~Ron
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Originally published at https://www.outdoorverified.com on April 15, 2023.
