Best Camping in Georgia: Top 10 Places to Go

Georgia is the perfect playground for those who enjoy a range of camping excursions. Numerous additional campgrounds and attractions provide cozy settings for spending the night under the stars, and Georgia's state park system offers comfort, regularity, and hospitality throughout the state.

The largest swamp in North America, the birthplace of Coca-Cola, and the source of the world's tastiest onions are all found in Georgia. Georgia offers a fun and distinctive camping experience. From this article, you may learn about the best camping in Georgia and what to pack for your camping trip. Remember to use a Jackery Solar Generator to charge your camping appliances with solar energy.

Top 10 Places to Camp in Georgia

Georgia is a surprising contender regarding picturesque campgrounds, with its 50 distinctive state parks offering some of the best camping in the country. In Georgia, spring, summer, and fall are excellent months to go camping, especially if you enjoy being outside and away from the stresses of city life.

Deciding where to go camping on your next trip can be challenging because Georgia is lucky to have so many amazing state parks. State-wide parks offer outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and boating. Here are the best camping in Georgia that you must visit!

1. Cloudland Canyon State Park

Location: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738

Phone: 706-657-4050

Website: Cloudland Canyon State Park  

When to Visit: Spring, Summer and Fall

Best Campsites: 13 Backcountry Campsites, 4 Pioneer Campsites

One of the state's biggest and most beautiful parks is Cloudland Canyon, situated on the western slope of Lookout Mountain. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities due to its thousand-foot-deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caverns, waterfalls, cascading creeks, lush forests, and plentiful wildlife.

The picnic area offers the best vantage point for viewing the canyon, but hikers can also explore the rim route or descend to the canyon bottom via a set of stairs. Influenced by recent rainfall, two waterfalls descend over sandstone and shale layers into pools below.

Tent camping is available near the West Rim Loop Trail at the Cloudland's West Rim walk-in campsites. The campgrounds are dispersed along a mile-long path through the flat forest, and the best sites are separated from the others far enough to provide seclusion.

"This is an amazing place to visit. The views are simply stunning. The trails are well signposted and easy to follow."

2. Mistletoe State Park

Location: 3725 Mistletoe Rd, Appling, GA 30802

Phone: 706-541-0321

Website: Mistletoe State Park  

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites: 4 Walk-In Campsites, 3 Backcountry Campsites, 1 Pioneer Campground

On the southern coast of Lake Strom Thurmond, in Columbia County, Georgia, you'll find Mistletoe State Park. The park is one of several recreational sites at the J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir, commonly known as Clarks Hill Lake, and is home to Hamilton Branch State Park.  

This park, one of the country's best places for bass fishing, is on the 71,100-acre Clarks Hill Lake close to Augusta. One of the largest lakes in the Southeast is accessible by boat from ramps. Visitors can cool off in the summer on kilometers of shady nature walks or at the sandy beach. Numerous events, including astronomy classes, concerts, and nature walks, are held annually.

Ten completely furnished cottages on the lake are available at Mistletoe State Park, five of which are log cabins. The campground's location on a peninsula provides breathtaking views of the open lake at sunrise and dusk. The lake is seen from a four-bed tent cabin with water and power.

"One of the best parks we have ever camped in. Sites are roomy and spaced far enough apart that you have some level of privacy."

3. Stephen C Foster State Park

Location: 17515 GA-177, Fargo, GA 31631

Phone: 912-637-5274

Website: Stephen C Foster State Park  

When to Visit: Any time of year

Best Campsites: 63 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 1 Pioneer Campground

This secluded park is the main entrance to the fabled Okefenokee Swamp, the most extensive wetland in the South and one of Georgia's seven natural wonders. The black swamp waters mirror the Spanish moss-covered trees, and cypress knees sprout upward from the glass-like surface.

Paddlers and photographers may take in the stunning landscape and many species. The 402,000-acre refuge is home to various animals, including alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, red-cockaded woodpeckers, and others.

Reservations for the renowned swamp's guided boat tours should be made as soon as possible. Tours at dusk and night might be offered. More daring visitors can visit historic Billy's Island by renting canoes and kayaks to explore the marsh further.

"One of the best parks we have ever camped in. Sites are roomy and spaced far enough apart that you have some level of privacy."

4. Skidaway Island State Park

Location: 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31411

Phone: 912-598-2300

Website: Skidaway Island State Park  

When to Visit: Early April to late May

Best Campsites: 87 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 3 Pioneer Campgrounds

One of the most pristine recreational locations in southeast Georgia is the small, 558-acre Skidaway Island State Park. The park is situated on a barrier island along the Skidaway Narrows, a picturesque waterway in the state, only 15 miles from downtown Savannah.

Some RV sites at this picturesque campsite offer sewer hookups behind live oaks and Spanish moss. Pets on leashes are welcome. Private pioneer campgrounds are available for groups. Popular locations for gatherings, including parties, reunions, and other celebrations, include open-air picnic shelters and an enclosed group shelter.

The camper cabins in the park feature screened porches, air conditioning, a bathroom with a shower, a kitchen, a main bedroom, and a loft with bunk beds for children. Visitors can use the fire ring, grill, and picnic table outside. Pets are permitted on campgrounds but not in camper cabins.     

"Beautiful, clean campground with amiable staff. We enjoyed the different options for hiking trails. We had our two dogs with us, and site #56 was spacious enough for us all."

5. Vogel State Park

Location: 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512

Phone: 706-745-2628

Website: Vogel State Park  

When to Visit: Fall

Best Campsites: 90 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 18 Walk-In Campsites, 1 Pioneer Campground

The second-oldest state park in Georgia is Vogel State Park, which opened in 1931. At 2500 feet above sea level, Vogel is encircled by Chattahoochee National Forest and is situated at Blood Mountain, the highest summit on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

Vogel is especially well-liked when the Blue Ridge Mountains turn into a rolling carpet of red, yellow, and gold leaves in the fall. Visitors from the South pass through Neel Gap, a stunning mountain pass close to Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest point.

Several overnight accommodations include cottages, campgrounds, and rustic hiking sites. Non-motorized boats are permitted on the 22-acre lake in the park, and in the summer, guests can cool down at the beach with mountain views. Vogel offers one pioneer campground, 18 walk-in campsites solely suitable for tents, and 85 campsites with electricity hookups.       

"Just Beautiful! We try to come every year! There is a nice walk to some waterfalls. Lovely town as well."

6. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Location: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573

Phone: 706-754-7981

Website: Tallulah Gorge State Park  

When to Visit: March to June, September to November

Best Campsites: 50 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 1 Pioneer Campground, Terrora Campground

Tallulah Gorge is a two-mile-long canyon almost 1,000 feet deep and one of the most breathtaking in the eastern United States. A permit is required to go to the gorge floor, but visitors can hike rim trails to several views instead. An 80-foot-high suspension bridge swings over the rocky ground, offering breathtaking views of the river and waterfalls. The exhibits of the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center highlight the area's rocky landscape, peaceful environment, and rich past as a Victorian resort town. The green salamander, monkey-face orchid, and persistent trillium are protected species that can be found in the gorge.

Visitors can still see the towers Karl Wallenda used, and tightrope walkers have traversed the gorge twice. Mountain bikers can try their talents on a challenging 10-mile course while strollers and bicycles can travel along a paved path that follows an old railroad bed. Knowledgeable park rangers provide a variety of events throughout the year, including guided walks, paddle tours, astronomy nights, Junior Ranger camps, Women's Wilderness Weekends, and holiday festivities. The park has 50 sites with hot showers and electric and water hookups, and it is where campers can stay.

"Never stop in this town. It's worth it to go around. They use cameras for speed traps to access tourist money because they cannot operate a budget."

7. Chattahoochee Bend State Park

Location: 425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA 30263

Phone: 770-254-7271

Website: Chattahoochee Bend State Park  

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites: 37 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 12 Tent Walk-In Campsites, 8 Platform Campsites, 8 Backcountry/Paddle-In Campsites, 1 Adirondack Group Campsite

In the northwest of Coweta County, Chattahoochee Bend State Park shows a magnificent area of nature. The park, situated in a lovely bend of the Chattahoochee River, is a refuge for campers, fishermen, and paddlers.

While more than six miles of forested paths are accessible for hiking and wildlife photography, a boat ramp makes it simple to get on the lake. An observation platform provides lovely views of the river and woodland.

Campers have various options for overnight lodging inside park limits, even though most of the park has been preserved in its natural state. The camping area's sunny pull-through and back-in sites are perfect for RV owners. Tent campers have a selection of walk-in sites, typically built campsites and riverfront platform sites.  

"I went with some friends and stayed at the cabin. Very nice and new. Some of the names of the trails are a bit concerning, like back in slavery, but for the most part, very nice and beautiful."

8. FD Roosevelt State Park

Location: 2970 GA-190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Phone: 706-663-4858

Website: FD Roosevelt State Park  

When to Visit: Any time of year

Best Campsites: 115 Tent, Trailer & RV Campsites, 16 Backcountry Campsites 

The largest state park in Georgia, at 9,049 acres, is a refuge for hikers and backpackers. Numerous routes totaling more than 40 miles, including the well-known Pine Mountain Trail's 23 miles, meander through hardwood and pine forests, cross creeks, and pass minor waterfalls—the undulating mountains 80 miles southwest of Atlanta surprise many visitors.

A wooded campground borders a tiny fishing lake, and nearby stables run by private businesses provide guided horseback rides. There are 140 campsites at the campground and a bathroom with hot showers.

FDR visited this region of Georgia in 1924 to swim in naturally warm springs that provided polio alleviation. Visitors can spend the night in the cabins or the campground to take advantage of everything the park offers. Some houses are perched on mountaintops, while others are beside a lake. All have kitchenware, fireplaces, and barbecues, as well as bedding.

"We enjoyed riding through the park in our little convertible! There were plenty of scenic spots where we could pull over to let faster cars pass."

9. Red Top Mountain State Park

Location: 50 Lodge Rd SE, Acworth, GA 30102

Phone: 770-975-4226

Website: Red Top Mountain State Park  

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites: 93 Tent, Trailer & RV Campites, 1 Pioneer Campground

Red Top Mountain, one of Georgia's most well-known state parks, is tucked away on one of the lake's substantial peninsulas that resemble fingers. The park's numerous fantastic hiking and running routes wind and meander across its gently undulating woodlands alongside Allatoona's iron-rich shoreline, covering several thousand acres.

The swimming, water skiing, and fishing are great at this well-liked park on Lake Allatoona. Boats can be brought by visitors or rented from local marinas. A cove with a swimming beach of sand encircled by trees makes a perfect place to cool yourself in the summer.

Visitors frequently spend the night in the park's yurt beside the lake, a large campground, or rental cottages. Red Top Mountain is a refuge for hikers even though the 12,000-acre lake is its most prominent feature.    

"I went hiking at Red Top Mountain State Park with my kids. We saw beautiful views and enjoyed hiking a long trail together. Also, go to this state park with your family because it is a great location."

10. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge 

Location: 4155 Suwannee Canal Road, Folkston, GA 31537

Phone: 912-496-7836

Website: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge  

When to Visit: Late Spring to early Summer

Best Campsites: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Campground, Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground

The Suwannee and St. Marys rivers originate at the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, protecting the Okefenokee Swamp's distinctive features. Along with many other animals, the refuge provides habitat for threatened and endangered species like the red-cockaded woodpecker, indigo snake, and wood stork.

It is well known worldwide for having populations of amphibians that serve as bioindicators of world health. More than 600 plant species have been documented on refuge lands. Visit the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to experience a distinct habitat with a rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife.

Visit the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to experience life in the wild! An ecological gem, this 680 square-mile wilderness is immaculate. A unique view of the marsh prairies and the Okefenokee Wilderness can be obtained by hiking the Chesser Island Boardwalk to the Owl's Roost Tower. The marsh interior offers canoe camping at two islands and seven overnight shelters.

"The Okefenokee Swamp Park was amazing! The boat captain, train conductor, and the show guy were all extremely knowledgeable about the swamps and animals there! I would recommend this to everyone!"

Jackery Solar Generators for Camping in Georgia

First-time campers should prepare with the necessary knowledge or gear. It might seem easy to go outside and enjoy nature. You get a cooler and a tent and go elsewhere. Everything is good, but you need a solid way to contact people back home or get help in an emergency.

How to solve it? Get a small solar generator to keep your essential things charged. Why use a solar generator? Solar generators are cheaper, lighter, and easier to move around than other types. It also doesn't make any noise or give off any fumes. Jackery Solar Generators are always reliable when camping, anywhere, or anytime you go.

The parts that make up a Jackery Solar Generator are solar panels and a portable power station. The Portable Power Station can be recharged in several ways, including solar panels, AC outlets, and carports. This means that power can be made even at night or when it's raining. Jackery Solar Panels entirely use sun energy with a conversion rate of over 25%. We will discuss the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus and 500 for camping in Georgia.

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

There is a portable solar generator on the market called the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus, which is very small and looks good. It has a capacity of 288Wh and a power output of 300W, thanks to the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station and the SolarSaga 40W solar panels.

With two PD ports that can output up to 100W of power each, it lets you charge multiple devices quickly simultaneously. For instance, it can charge a portable fan and a projector at once, making your camping trip more fun.   

It only weighs 11 lbs, which makes the Explorer 300 Plus easy to take on any outdoor journey, like camping, climbing, or wildlife spotting. The SolarSaga 40W is a small, movable option that can be used anywhere. The fact that it folds up makes it easy to store and move, and it fits perfectly in your bag.

The Explorer 300 Plus has a strong LiFePO4 battery that lasts long and a self-developed BMS that adds extra security. Our improved technology lets you charge efficiently, giving you faster charging times and longer battery life. Stay charged and linked, Whether at the campsite or on the go. You can count on the 300 Plus to power your outdoor activities because it has easy charge options.

Jackery Solar Generator 500

Jackery Solar Generator 500 is the small and easiest-to-carry lithium rechargeable battery generator. The Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station and the SolarSaga 100W solar panels are being sold together.

The Jackery Solar Generator 500 is a compact, highly portable lithium rechargeable battery generator. The Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station and the SolarSaga 100W solar panels are available as a bundle.

If you enjoy camping or staying at campsites without electricity, you'll likely need a reliable method for generating, storing, and utilizing electricity. These SolarSaga 100W solar panels efficiently convert solar energy into electricity, which can be conveniently stored in the Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station for future use. This solar generator provides a secure and environmentally friendly solution for accessing power during camping, RVing, or off-grid living.

The Jackery Explorer 500 comprises a lithium-ion battery, an MPPT solar regulator, and a pure sine wave inverter. The screen displays power input, output, and the state of charge with multiple charging ports. The unit is equipped with a convenient handle, allowing for easy mobility.

With an impressive 518Wh capacity, this device can efficiently charge various camping essentials such as phones, cameras, portable fans, and more. It comes equipped with a 500W PURE SINE WAVE AC plug capable of powering a wide range of AC-powered devices. It comes equipped with three USB ports, an AC outlet, a DC output, and a carport to conveniently charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Camping in Georgia Tips

There are many ways to camp in Georgia. From old-fashioned "sleeping bag under the stars" to complete luxury "glamping," there's a way for every type of person to enjoy the great outdoors for their version of a camping adventure. Here are some of the top tips:  

• Take advantage of the Georgia State Parks camping sites: Georgia has endless forests, lakes, rivers, and streams. Create a home base in one of the state's well-serviced sites, or travel around the state to check out Georgia's varied scenery and wilderness.

• Consider camping off-season: Summer camping crowds cramping your style? Why not book your camping trip in the fall or winter? You can even add one of our whitewater adventures down the Chattooga right into October, which you won't find with most other outfitters!

• Black Bears are a natural part of Georgia's environment and can sometimes be seen in State Parks. It is a memorable and rare experience to see these creatures, and they are most likely to be spotted in the north Georgia mountains or near the Okefenokee Swamp. Bears usually keep their distance from humans but sometimes come too close. Beware of bears!

Final Thoughts

Georgia has many recreational opportunities for fans of the great outdoors, including camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and more. More than 1 million acres of land are set aside for recreational use at state parks, historic sites, fishing areas, and wildlife management areas. In this post, you can find the best camping in Georgia and the tips or essentials you need.

When camping in Georgia, a portable generator is far more critical outside. The Jackery Solar Generator is an advanced generator that offers a dependable and eco-friendly power supply for your camping trip.