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The best camping near Don Carter State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Don Carter adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

This park’s cool and calm waters provide an ideal setting for swimmers, boaters, and paddlers.  

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Community favorites near Don Carter State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Don Carter State Park

98%
(25)

Castleberry Bridge

10 sites ¡ Tents40 acres ¡ Dahlonega, GA
Castleberry Bridge Camping Guess what? We're open again, just in time for Labor Day! Come join us at this unforgettable camping spot and learn about the history of the Etowah River. Our motto is "Thanks for keeping it clean," so help us spread the word and keep it true! Look for the gate after the bridge, and then follow the trail to the right. There's a sign that shows where you may camp. Remember, your phone might not work near the river. If you need help, you might have to drive a little up the road to call us. here's so much fun waiting for you to explore! Imagine climbing onto a tube and floating down the river for a whole 15 minutes. And guess what? You can start this awesome ride right from the camp! If you're feeling extra adventurous, there are rope swings that let you swing over the river, and there are super cool places to splash around and swim in the Etowah river too. When your tummy starts rumbling, don't worry. We've got you covered with grills in public areas where you can cook delicious food. So you can have a tasty meal with the sound of the river flowing in the background. But wait, there's more excitement! If you're looking for an even bigger adventure, this is the perfect spot to begin an awesome kayaking trip. You can paddle down the river in a kayak and have a blast! So whether you want to float, swing, swim, or paddle, our camp is the place to be for all kinds of outdoor fun! Camping groups are limited to two adults. Kids camp free. For an additional fee you may add more adults to your group. Amenities Restrooms Grills Fire Rings Tubes First Aid Kits Tube Pumping Station Trashcans Benches & Picnic Tables Grill Brushes
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(9)

Lula Disc House

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents125 acres ¡ Lula, GA
Hello Campers, We are a 125 acre property that has 36 holes of championship disc golf. The North Oconee River runs through our property as well as three ponds throughout. We have plenty of room to pitch your tents. It really depends on how far you would like to be from the bathhouse. We are 6 miles from Lake Lanier and the Chattahooce River, and a short drive to hiking/mountain biking trail heads.
from 
$36
 / night
98%
(32)

7 springs

2 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents10 acres ¡ Dahlonega, GA
Miners Cabin: The miners cabin is located in between Dawsonville and Dahlonega Georgia in the heart of gold country. This unexpected gem has been our family’s oasis for the past 7 years and now, we are opening it up to share with others. Access to the cabin will be via our driveway and guests will not be allowed to drive directly to the cabin. There is a short walk from parking access to the cabin. This walk is on an incline and those who may have difficulties walking up or down an incline or on uneven surfaces should consider this walk when planning your trip. Due to access limitations, we ask that you not bring more than two vehicles, We have additional parking at another property if needed but please let us know in advance. The Cabin sits on a grassy meadow a stones throw from cane branch stream. In the morning and afternoon you should expect to see or hear all types of wildlife. We have a family of raccoons that come around in the summer months and will eat just 5 foot from the porch. In the winter we have several deer that access the creekbed. The wildlife is fed often by our family and has been for the past seven years. Hummingbirds, woodpeckers, whippoorwills, crows, and even goldfish call this oasis home. At night our kids love to hunt for small crawfish in the creek with a flashlight. While bears are always something to watch for, we don’t typically see them on the property. A few miles of walking paths have been meticulously cared for and created by my father Mike. The mossy stone paths look like something out of a story book in the spring. Along the trails you will find benches and hammocks to lounge on and if you look close enough you may find some crystals that were placed for others to find from some of our many mineral digs over the years. There are two bridges that cross the stream along the paths and an old water wheel from way back that was used in the gold mining process in the creek. Vegetation on the property includes a variety of chantrell and coral mushrooms. If Mushrooming is your thing we have a good stash of chicken of the woods and if it’s fruiting you are welcome to pick it. Mountain laurels line the creek and bloom beautiful pink blossoms in the spring and summer. Cane creek branch is a quiet and beautiful stream. The water only gets about waist high at the deepest point making it perfect for kids or dogs to splash around in. Inside the cabin you will find a few gold pans if you would like to try your luck. We have found gold in the creek along with garnets and a few flashes of platinum. This property used to be the site for a long abandoned gold mine and an old metal water wheel still sits on the creek bank. The water wheel is locked but will still turn and at over 8 ft high it is a sight to see in itself. You will find a few small fish but nothing to shake a pole at. The cabin itself is nothing fancy and we like to keep it that way. It is as primitive as you would expect from the title. Only one electrical outlet is currently in the cabin. There is no running water but there is a water basin for brushing your teeth and washing small items. The bathroom is behind the cabin in a separate facility. This outhouse is unlike anything you have seen and has all of the comforts of home. Sleeping arrangements include a king size bed on a solid frame and a small sofa. You are welcome to pitch a tent or hammock outside as well. In the winter the cabin gets cold, we will provide an electric heater but you should know that it may still get cold inside. The porch looks over the creek and makes a great spot for bird watching. Amenities include a charcoal grill and a fire pit for cooking. The fire pit has several stable adirondack chairs circling it. We have a throwing board on the property however you will need to rent the throwing items from us and sign a waiver. We also have a small swing by our goldfish pond just across the creek. Things to do near us. Kayaking and tubing are just 7 miles down the road. You can rent a kayak from us or from the outfitters. We have 4 sit on top kayaks for adults 2 for children under 100 lbs and several whitewater kayaks are available for rent if you have prior experience. We also will guide you down the river as an additional service. See our price list. Our local outfitter Chestatee River Adventures is typically 30.00 for each kayak and 10.00 for tubing. The trip is 6 miles and can take anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on the water level. Please note that the outfitter is only open during the spring and summer. Our family will take you out no matter the time of year. Fishing on the Chestatee, Etowah, or lake lanier are also great activities and all can be accessed with a short 10 minute drive. Lake Zwerner is a local fishing hot spot great for grabbing a kayak or canoe and spending the day on the water. Gold Mining: Dahlonega is the gold city! Only 15 minutes away you will find Consolidated Gold Mine – Underground Gold Mine Tours. Here you can do some gold and gem mining as part of the tour. The gold museum in scenic dahlonega is close by as well.If you are looking for something more my dad offers trips and will show you the basics or can take you out for an all day dredging experience. You keep whatever you find! Hiking: The area hikes include the start of the great Appalachian (Apple-atch-an) trail. This is amicalola state park a 25 minute drive from the property. If you are brave enough, the copper mine cave is a quick 10 minute drive and is a sight to see. There is no cost to hike in however the parking and walk in are not easily accessible. From this quick hike you will be able to see copermines falls a great class 3 + rapid that local kayakers run. We also have a short walk on the etowah river that is well maintained. The Edge of the world trail is another must see.
from 
$20
 / night
85%
(13)

Three Falls Treehouse

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Dahlonega, GA
Discover an escape at our riverside glamping treehouse nestled by the Chestatee River. Perfect for families or friends seeking adventure and relaxation, this thoughtfully designed space accommodates up to 5 guests. The cozy yet spacious layout features a luxurious queen bed and three twin beds, ensuring everyone enjoys a restful stay. Cast your line for a fishing session or take a refreshing dip in the river's cool waters. As the sun sets, the magic continues as you gather around the fire pit by the water's edge, sharing stories and laughter under the starlit sky. Unwind in nature's embrace without compromising comfort.
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$50
 / night
99%
(210)

White Dog Farm camping

11 sites ¡ RVs, Tents11 acres ¡ Cleveland, GA
I have been a equestrian for 40+ years and horses are my passion. Recently purchased this beautiful , peaceful property one and half years ago and have had to think outside the box to continue to care for my wonderful animals as when I moved from urban environment to rural , my income has been challenging to teach enough horseback lessons to survive. This made me consider sharing this wonderful place. We have a White Dog Farm fan page :Facebook, Instagram: WHITE.DOG.FARM , can show our horse activities and more photos
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$40
 / night
98%
(60)

Yellow Chestnut Mtn

1 site ¡ RV, Tent3 acres ¡ Blairsville, GA
This site is our best work ever! 4wd or Awd required...know your vehicle please. Elevation is 2800ft, 220 degree view of 4 states. Close to everything the North GA Mountains has to offer. 5 minutes to Vogel State Park, 15 min to Brasstown Bald, or Helton Creek Falls, and 25 minutes to Helen. You will not be disappointed. This is one site only. I try to have firewood on site, but please always bring some. Tents and car camping are welcomed. Great cell service. Hiking trails everywhere. Property borders 87,000 acres of USFS. Please be aware of vehicle and trailer requirements, 4WD or AWD is Required. Please leave campsite exactly the way you found it. If you have to move the picnic table or campsite log seating during your stay, that's fine.....but please put it back exactly how you found it. Thanks
from 
$100
 / night
95%
(40)

Big Idea Homestead

3 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents1 acre ¡ Jefferson, GA
Recently purchased property. Wanting to turn into a tiny house community with a goat farm. But, for now, it has three empty tiny cabins, one with power, 2 that are primitive, and lots of area for tent camping. Also, have a completely refinished RV set up to use too. Great for a romantic stay for two.
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$25
 / night
96%
(14)

Hemlock Cottage

3 sites ¡ Lodging5 acres ¡ Suches, GA
There are 3 treehouses present on these 5 acres of land tucked into the National Forest. A stream runs past 2 of the treehouses down to a pasture with a small assortment of animals. The property includes friendly outdoor cats that will likely keep you company during your stay. While on your glamping trip there are several places nerby to hiking, fishing, swimming, and if you're brave enough, even biking the ups and downs of the mountain roads.
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$100
 / night
100%
(2)

Possum Holler 353 RV

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Demorest, GA
This is not a commercial resort type camping area. This area is for quiet enjoyment of nature. Located just a little more than an hour north of Atlanta, and a half hour north of Gainesville in Habersham County Georgia, this private wooded park has the look of the Appalachia Mountain Foothills without traveling hours farther North. This property is known to the area's old timers as "Possum Holler" consists of 10 acres of woodland bordered by more woodland. There are Possum, Fox, and Deer here, Hawks, and Owls. Hikers, if quiet, may catch a glimpse of a wading Blue Heron in the creek or a fox. Spotting deer are more likely. There are woods roads and paths to explore, practice woodcraft skills, look for animal tracks and search the trees for Hawks and Owls. There aren't miles long trails for true hikers but enough changes in elevation for a work out for us older folks. Bring your water shoes and wade the creek, for the brave, swim in the old swimming hole... it only feels cold for the first few seconds. In July the creek was 70 degrees. For the not so brave there is the pleasure of throwing bread to the small fish. The creek is spring fed so it doesn't get as warm as a lake. Real refreshing on a hot day. One is unlikely to see the possum the area is noted for as they are only active at night. Don't leave food out when you turn in for the night. RVer's and campers can stay for a day, a weekend, or a week to enjoy the 353RV property or use as a base camp for exploring North GA , or just an easy weekend getaway out of the Atlanta area. This location is only a couple miles off the Piedmont College highway exit. There are actually two neighboring property's. One 10 acre property for campers and one 3 acre property for RV's. There is only one site for RV's that rely on solar power while leaves are on the trees. There are three sites with 120V 30 amp power and fresh water hook up. Access is easy in and out with no backing into a site necessary. A gray water dump site is possible for long term stays. Visitors at the 3 acre property can also walk over and enjoy the 10 acre property with the trails and creek. No problem getting camping gear down to the creek. It's a bit of work on foot but only a 4wheel ride away in our Jeep. There is a separate entrance for the other side of the creek drive-able to the edge of the creek. There is a lot of room for tent camping along the creek on this side. There are no toilet facilities for the tent camping areas, or near the creek and no potable water at this time. City water supply can be obtained outside the shop building at the top of the creek trail. Tent camping is primitive, find a spot and make your camp. Pick a spot and make your campsite. Become a regular and we will keep your spot reserved. At Possum Holler, there is enough space to not have another camp site in view from yours. Another more private option is along "The South Fork" road higher up away from the creek which also has 4wheel jeep access. For a more complete description of this offering copy and paste https://www.leathergoodsconnection.com/353rvpark.html into your browser. This RV park seems like it's in the Joyce Kilmer Forest, but just two miles away is the strip of the usual fast food restaurants at the highway exit. Super Walmart, Lowes, Plumbing and Electric, Tractor Supply, Bank with ATM, Auto Parts. Race Track Gas, etc. There is sidewalk from the Holly St. entrance to Post Office and Piedmont University. For local attractions check Google, Chamber of Commerce, exploregeorgia.org and others. This location is situated a short drive from all their suggestions. In season there are events at the university, free baseball games, tennis matches, plays, and concerts. Consult the university schedule of events. Don't forget the Demorest 4th of July celebration. There are two special times of the year on the property, they only last a few weeks. The most spectacular is in the spring when the Mountain Laurel blossoms. There is a lot of Mountain Laurel on the Possum Holler Property on trails and along the creek. Blossoming time varies by a few weeks every year. If you wish to be notified in order to plan a visit contact us through our website. The other time is the fall Leaf Season. If you wish to be notified in order to plan a visit contact us through this website, our webpage, or Google Maps.
from 
$40
 / night
98%
(453)

Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside

18 sites ¡ RVs, Tents198 acres ¡ Long Creek, SC
Chattooga Belle Farm – They Built It! By Tracy McCoy I wonder if when standing on the sprawling in upstate South Carolina, just a short hour trip from Greenville, Ed and Kitty Land heard a small still voice say, “if you build it, they will come.” While there isn't a baseball field on the property, that's about all that is lacking. Chattooga Belle Farm began as an event building set on 138 acres with a small seasonal retail store. Soon people found their way to the soon-to-be full-fledged farm and they felt it; that feeling that you've found a very special place. Peaceful, majestic and unlike any other, Chattooga Belle Farm is quite possibly the perfect place for any event and most certainly an ideal place to pledge your heart and life to another. Since the Lands opened their doors in 2010 they have come. There have been families, couples, groups, the media and fruit pickers who have all visited the farm; and they return year after year. Having been written up countless times across the southeast, US and more recently featured on The Today Show, the farm just keeps growing and getting better. With a history of growing sweet juicy apples, the soil in this part of the world has proven to be excellent for peaches, muscadines, scuppernongs, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries. The farm also grows exotic fruits like persimmons, paw paws, Asian pears, figs, and more! Today, the farm offers tours for visitors which offer incredible views and a visit to their horseshoe lake. Educational in nature, the tours leave guests more in love with the land than when they arrived. The landscape is picturesque and the mountain views are truly breathtaking in every direction. The farm hosts farm to table dinners that sell out year after year. Their U-Pick fruit opportunities evolve throughout the season with something always coming in from early summer through fall. A list of available fruit is updated often on their website as is farm tour info, upcoming events and information about cabin rentals on Horseshoe Lake. The recent addition of a distillery on the farm means the fruit is grown, fermented, distilled and bottled on the farm. The distillery is open year round Monday – Saturday. Brandies, Bourbons and Whiskeys are aged in oak barrels and aged to produce some of the finest liquors made in these mountains. The farm also boasts a challenging 18-hole Disc Golf course. The course is open to the public and the cost is $3 per game or an annual pass offering unlimited games is available for only $25. The holes are placed throughout the farm enabling play even when private events are taking place on the property. The farm store is complete with fresh produce (in season), canned jams, jellies and bottled ciders. Grass-fed, natural, antibiotic-free Black Angus beef is sold in the store. The cattle are raised on pasture which produces some of the healthiest beef you can buy. Using only natural, humane and environmentally sustainable practices, the Lands and their staff raise beef as nature intended. Bringing the best to your family has never been easier. Beef is offered in a variety of cuts boxed ahead for you when you call to order. A complete list of options is offered on their website with ordering instructions. Belle's Bistro at Chattooga Belle Farm serves salads, sandwiches, burgers and soups made with the freshest ingredients possible. The bistro is open for lunch Tuesday – Sunday from April – October. Their menu includes Certified South Carolina Grown food which makes for an outstanding menu, also which can be viewed on chattoogabellefarm.com. When it comes to weddings, Chattooga Belle Farm has it all! With all-inclusive packages that offer rental items, catering, a wedding coordinator, the minister or officiant, photographer, flowers, music, bar service and even the wedding cake. The couple can customize a package or choose from their Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum packages. Getting married has never been this easy, you bring the dress and your partner and you enjoy the day! Some of the area's loveliest weddings have happened in this remarkable place! The 2017 Eclipse Festival event planned on the farm August 21 will include music, camping, great food, distillery and farm tours, craft vendors and astrology talks and it will be unforgettable. Get your tickets today at SolarEclipseFest2017.com. Ed and Kitty and the outstanding farm team welcome you and we guarantee that if you come, you'll find that you want to stay forever! Plan your visit: Chattooga Belle Farm is located at 454 Damascus Church Road, Long Creek, South Carolina 29658. Information is abundant online.
from 
$30
 / night
96%
(554)

Brooks Lake, a piece of Heaven

30 sites ¡ RVs, Tents56 acres ¡ Conyers, GA
Under new owners and new onsite managers. Privately owned Brooks Lake, located just 25 miles east of Atlanta and 5 miles North of I-20 in Conyers, Georgia. Brooks Lake is a peaceful retreat to the outdoors where you can meditate or be as active as you wish. 56 acres of rolling hills, shaded bluffs, grassy plains, and a 50 acre spring fed lake with serious fishing for Bass, Bream, Crappie, or Catfish. For the more active individual you can rent paddle boats, canoes or fishing boats. Complimenting Brooks Lake’s abundant green space, are its wonderful amenities such as: community fire pit, picnic pavilions, swimming, volleyball, horseshoes, softball, and basketball (All at your Own Risk; No Lifeguards on duty)! There are Restrooms available(no showers). We encourage everyone to continue using good social distancing for the safety of all.
from 
$60
 / night
100%
(5)

Matt's Front Porch

1 site ¡ RV6 acres ¡ Dawsonville, GA
Learn more about this land:Property is located 5 miles from outlet mall, 30 minutes from Apple and peach orchards. Nice mountain drive. Plenty of shopping 5 miles away. Property is wooded and away from traffic. I have only one RV space with 20 amp power and water. By Summer I should have another RV space. I'm also adding sewage this summer to both spaces.
from 
$15
 / night

The best camping near Don Carter State Park guide

Overview

About

Just an hour from Atlanta, Don Carter State Park is situated on the northern end of the 38,000-acre Lake Lanier and serves as the ideal setting for water activities. Visitors can enjoy a large, sandy beach with a bath house, boating, and swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding in the lake's calm waters. Back on land are more than 12 miles of hiking and biking trails that lead through the hardwood forest. The Don Carter State Park Campground has two areas: one designed specifically for RVs and another primitive camping area just for tents and hammocks.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations can be made at the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites website or by phone.
  2. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in summer. Reservations can be made 13 months ahead of time.
  3. Campsites that have not been reserved are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

When to go

Don Carter State Park is open year-round. Summers are typically hot, and winters are relatively chilly. Summer is the peak visitor season here, with many Atlanta residents making the short trip to enjoy cooling off in the water—be sure to make reservations in advance. If you’re most interested in the trails, aim for a spring or fall visit to enjoy more comfortable temperatures.

Know before you go

  • You can rent a kayak or paddleboard in the park, but only during peak season from early March to late November.
  • Bringing your own firewood is prohibited, but you can pick some up at the main office in the park.
  • All pets must be on a six-foot leash and continuously attended to. Pets are not allowed in swimming areas or in any buildings. 

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