A Guide to Camping in North Georgia
North Georgia is known for its mountains, rivers, and rural beauty. A fantastic location for outdoor activities, camping in North Georgia is a fun and convenient way to be close to all that this region has to offer.
The Best Time to Go Camping in North Georgia
The peak camping season in Georgia runs from spring through fall. Summers can be hot and humid – so if you are sensitive to the heat or plan on doing a lot of strenuous hiking, you may want to avoid this time of year. On the other hand, if watersports are a key part of your vacation plans, a trip in July might be just what the doctor ordered.
Camping in North Georgia during the fall can be particularly pleasant, as the temperatures begin to dip and the foliage changes color. The best time for leaf-peeping in North Georgia usually comes between the end of October and beginning of November. While Georgia’s mild winters allow for camping during the wintertime, it’s best to check ahead to make sure that local attractions are open, as this is usually a very slow time of year and many businesses may be closed.
Things to know about Camping in North Georgia
Keep these tips in mind when planning your trip.
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Reserve Your Site Well Ahead of Time
Camping is a popular activity in North Georgia – particularly in the fall. Be sure to reserve as soon as possible. This is especially true if you are interested in booking a limited inventory accommodation such as a cottage, as these are sometimes booked close to a year in advance.
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Sun Protection and Bug Spray are Your Friends
With a little bit of prep, you can ensure your skin has as much fun as you do.
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Research What Amenities are Offered
Depending on where you book, campgrounds can offer a wide range of different services – some locations are more no-frills, while others feature conveniences like wifi or an onsite store. The Reserve America website is a great resource for learning more about the amenities provided at specific campgrounds in North GA.
The Best Campgrounds in North Georgia
Here are some of the great locations that you’ll want to consider when camping in North Georgia. From campgrounds in Helen, GA to camping areas spread across the full northern portion of the state, you’ll have plenty of satisfying options to choose from.
Campgrounds in Helen, GA
Known for its vineyards and Bavarian charm, the village of Helen, Georgia is a popular northern destination for campers. The beauty of Helen, GA camping is that it provides you with easy access to the creature comforts of civilization but allows you to remain close to nature. While Vogel State Park, Moccasin Creek State Park, and Black Rock Mountain State Park are all options for camping near Helen, GA, you can also opt to stay even closer – just a few miles from the town center at Smithgall Woods. A 7 minute drive from downtown Helen, Smithgall Woods is a popular destination for trout fishing.
Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park was established in 1931, making it the second oldest state park in all of Georgia. The park is situated in the Chattahoochee National Forest and is most popular during the fall months when the leaves begin to change color.
A longtime favorite destination for camping in North Georgia, Vogel State Park offers direct access to many great hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to challenging. Lake Trahlyta is located within the park – it’s open to non-motorized boats as well as swimming in the summertime, and provides a beautiful, mountain view backdrop that you can enjoy from shore. When taking a break from all of the outdoor action, be sure to check out the park museum where you can learn about Vogel’s history and construction.
The park provides a wide range of amenities including onsite washers and dryers, a dump station, restrooms, and showers. After a day on the trail, you can unwind with a game of miniature golf, some time on a rented pedal boat, or maybe even a bit of entertainment at the park’s amphitheater.
Moccasin Creek State Park
While it’s the smallest state park in Georgia, Moccasin Creek has plenty to offer visitors. Situated on the western shore of Lake Burton, the park provides easy access to the water. This includes a fully-accessible fishing pier that is only open to adults age 65 and older, children 11 age and under, and individuals of all ages who have a Georgia disability fishing license. Canoe, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available during the warm part of the year, allowing you to explore the lake.
While the park area itself is relatively flat, it’s surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing walking path or a more vertical hike, Moccasin Park’s 3 miles of trails will have you immersed in nature.
The park is ADA accessible and its amenities include restrooms, showers, onsite laundry, a boat launch ramp, and a fish cleaning station. If you’re interested in visiting Helen, GA, camping in Moccasin Creek means you’ll be just a 30 minute drive away from the village’s center.
Black Rock Mountain State Park
Sitting 3,640 feet above sea level, Black Rock Mountain State Park is the highest state park in Georgia. Its unique location offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the park’s high elevation also means that its weather conditions tend to stay cooler than other campgrounds near Helen, GA. The park provides access to four hiking trails. Additionally, you can fish in the local lake or go for a relaxing walk on the path that runs along its shore.
Black Rock Mountain State Park provides a variety of different accommodations – you can enjoy the privacy of a walk-in campsite, or indulge in the creature comforts of a cottage and cable hook-up. Onsite restrooms, showers, grills, and laundry all ensure that you’ll have a comfortable stay. Located approximately an hour from Helen, GA, camping in Black Rock Mountain State Park allows you to spend time on a lofty perch while staying within touching distance of civilization.
Soap Creek Marina and Resort
Located in historic Lincolnton, GA, Soap Creek Marina was established in 1954 and is a popular destination for boaters and campers. The property is situated right at the edge of the water and provides access to over 71,000 acres of water. Their boat launch and mooring options allow you to easily get your boat in and out of the water.
The marina offers camping and cabin rentals, with both options giving you 24/7 access to a private beach. A gas dock and convenience store are both onsite, ensuring that you and your boat both stay well-fueled during your stay. Pontoon and fishing boats are available for full or half day rental.
Atlanta Marietta RV Resort
Atlanta Marietta RV Park is located 13 miles away from the Atlanta metro area, putting a whole host of activities within easy reach. While you have convenient access to shopping and nightlife, the campground itself is nestled in a comfortable, wooded setting that allows plenty of room to relax.
Marietta is an RV-only park, and all sites are equipped with electric service, water, and sewer hookups. Enjoy the convenience of onsite shower suites, paved roads, and free wifi. And when you’re ready to explore the surrounding area, you’ll have to choose from a variety of great options – including White Water Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Atlanta Zoo.
It’s Time to Go Camping!
Ready to go camping in North Georgia? Then there’s no time like the present! ReserveAmerica is a fantastic resource for researching and booking your perfect camping getaway. Whether you’re looking to spend time out on the water, exploring winding trails, or simply relaxing in a peaceful natural environment, we’ll help you book the perfect trip.