The best camping near Columbus with wildlife watching

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Columbus is set right along the Alabama-Georgia border with the Chattahoochee River and Lake Oliver marking its northwestern border. Camping here means quick access to national forests, fishing lakes, and endless hiking trails. Less than an hour away, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is Georgia’s largest state park, with well-appointed, year-round campgrounds that include restrooms and showers. Meanwhile, RV campsites with full hookups (and access to amazing bass fishing!) are available in Florence Marina State Park. A little farther off the beaten path, try primitive hunting campsites in Tuskegee National Forest. Near Columbus, serene escape into the American South awaits every type of Hipcamper.

96% (325)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus

2. Blackbird Farm

96%
(49)
15mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a working aquaponics farm, located in Marion Co Georgia. From maps it shows that we are about 13 miles straight line distance from Columbus Georgia. That would be true if you could drive through Fort Moore. You cannot so we are actually about 35 mins or 23 miles from Columbus. The drive is pleasant with very little traffic. Our campsite sits beyond the gate in front of our small farm/general store. There are rustic bathrooms with hot water, free WiFi and plenty to do! We encourage you to hike, bike, and explore. ** We are in rattlesnake and copperhead season. (SEP - OCT) Please be mindful hiking on warms days and evenings towards dusk. ** The store is not open at this time, and the Greenhouse is available by request. Deer, coyotes, wild hogs, and other creatures roam freely. Any pets must stay fully leashed at all times (see below). Our day starts early in the summer as we harvest for market. We make every effort to be very quiet, but the field crops are close to your camp site. We will never run a tractor until after 11am. You may hear the greenhouse fans kick on starting around 9am when the system starts warming up. Pets - Are welcome if contained on a leash at all times. Bathrooms - are located next to the store and a short walk from your tent site. Site - Is on level ground for tents campers RV vans and more. There is a fire pit, picnic table and water spigot. The water is not well water and comes from the county main water line. There is a main highway leading up to our gate so you do not have to off road to get to the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night

8. 20 acres for Private RV Camping

100%
(14)
22mi from Columbus · 1 site · RV
20 acres, mostly wooded, for your private camping escape in a quiet, rural setting. The level site is beside a charming, old stone house on about 2 cleared acres. Full RV hookups: city water, 30 amp & 50 amp electric, and sewer are beside the vacant stone house. Trash pickup is provided. Nice "yard" area for the RV. The RV space is very close to level. Many great spaces for tent camping and hiking. Bring your camp chairs to sit around the small firepit (just a circle of rocks, really). The property is very dark at night so if you arrive after dark, you will want to have a good flashlight. Pets are allowed. Please pick up after your dog(s). Near FD Roosevelt State Park (15 min drive) and Callaway Gardens (20 minute drive). There is an additional set of full RV hookups available but it will not be occupied unless both sites are rented as a bundle. Two RVs can park and hookup, one behind the other, in the long driveway. Learn more about this land: Private, secluded campsites on 20 acre property. Full hookups include city water, 50/30 amp electric, sewer, and trash pickup on dirt/gravel driveway that can accommodate 40+ foot diesel pusher or smaller rigs. The site is beside a vacant stone house with well kept yard and 18 acres of natural wooded property. Easily accessible on a paved road. Covered parking for your tow vehicle. There are 2 sites available. The 2nd site is available only as an add-on to rental of this site. 20 minutes from Pine Mountain GA and Callaway Gardens, 30 minutes from Columbus, GA, 15 minutes from FDR State Park, 15 Minutes from Warm Springs, GA and the Little White House, close to Flint River.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$70
 / night

9. Circle E Ranch and Funny Farm

90%
(5)
48mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Ten acres of quiet hills, young pines, and big sky—just outside Oglethorpe, GA. Park your rig, light a fire, and listen to the woods breathe. It’s simple, peaceful, and off the beaten path—primitive tent sites coming soon. Just outside the small town of Oglethorpe, this peaceful RV site offers a private, laid-back escape for travelers who appreciate nature, stars, and space to roam. What’s here now: One easy-access RV site with plenty of room Fire ring for cooking, storytelling, or just watching the flames Horseshoe pit for laid-back fun Swing set and playhouse to keep the little ones happy Wildlife sightings—deer, raccoons, opossums, foxes, and more And don’t mind Chewy, our dog and on-site welcome wagon—he’s friendly, curious, and always happy to say hello Just minutes from gas, groceries, and local food in Oglethorpe Local highlights (within 10–30 minutes): Andersonville National Historic Site – a moving Civil War memorial and POW museum Plains, Georgia – hometown of President Jimmy Carter, full of history and small-town charm Worth the drive (about 1–1.5 hours): Robins Air Force Base Museum of Aviation – one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S. National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning – powerful, immersive military history experience National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, GA – focused on naval warfare and Civil War history Coming later this year: We’re adding 2 - pioneer-style tent sites for campers who like it quiet, rustic, and real. Whether you’re here for a night or a few, this is your basecamp for calm, countryside, and classic Southern sights.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night

13. The West Point Lake House

100%
(3)
45mi from Columbus · 1 site · Lodging
This lake House is on mostly wooded lot with full 30/50 Amp RV hookups. The covered dock sits on 8 feet of water on West Point Lake. Renovated in 2022. house has 2 full bathrooms and washer and dryer. A Finished basement with walk out patio and a separate Bunk house. (Kids love it) Bring your boat! Can sleep 8. Large deck with grill, fire pits, kayaks and smore... I mean more. Cleaning fee is $225 added to stay Near Downtown LaGrange for Shopping and Dining. Beautiful Nutwood winery is about a 25 min drive away. The Oar House is a unique, fun, and tranquil lake front cabin with room for the whole family. Spacious enough to sleep 8 people, and cozy enough for 2. You will enjoy deer, turkey or maybe a fox meandering across the trail to the boat dock as you sit on the upper deck sipping your morning coffee. Hook up your camper and sit by the fire pits. One is by the cabin, and another is lakeside for a tranquil evening. 3 night minimum stay Be sure to check out our Condo on the West end of Panama City Beach, Sandy Dreams! https://www.vrbo.com/2795925?unitId=3367889
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$135
 / night

15. Branching Pines RV Park

17mi from Columbus · 3 sites
Branching Pines RV Park stands out as a serene retreat, uniquely situated among towering trees along the picturesque banks of Uchee Creek. This tranquil location offers guests a peaceful escape while being conveniently located just four minutes from the back gate of Fort Benning, GA, making it an ideal choice for military personnel and visitors alike. At Branching Pines, you will find a clean and quiet environment that is perfect for both short visits and long-term stays. The park features full-service hookups, including both 30 and 50 amp service, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. The well-maintained community fosters a welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their surroundings. In addition to its excellent amenities, Branching Pines RV Park is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities. Guests can explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and recreational areas, making it a great base for adventure. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a longer-term home, Branching Pines RV Park is the perfect destination.

Columbus is set right along the Alabama-Georgia border with the Chattahoochee River and Lake Oliver marking its northwestern border. Camping here means quick access to national forests, fishing lakes, and endless hiking trails. Less than an hour away, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is Georgia’s largest state park, with well-appointed, year-round campgrounds that include restrooms and showers. Meanwhile, RV campsites with full hookups (and access to amazing bass fishing!) are available in Florence Marina State Park. A little farther off the beaten path, try primitive hunting campsites in Tuskegee National Forest. Near Columbus, serene escape into the American South awaits every type of Hipcamper.

96% (325)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus

2. Blackbird Farm

96%
(49)
15mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a working aquaponics farm, located in Marion Co Georgia. From maps it shows that we are about 13 miles straight line distance from Columbus Georgia. That would be true if you could drive through Fort Moore. You cannot so we are actually about 35 mins or 23 miles from Columbus. The drive is pleasant with very little traffic. Our campsite sits beyond the gate in front of our small farm/general store. There are rustic bathrooms with hot water, free WiFi and plenty to do! We encourage you to hike, bike, and explore. ** We are in rattlesnake and copperhead season. (SEP - OCT) Please be mindful hiking on warms days and evenings towards dusk. ** The store is not open at this time, and the Greenhouse is available by request. Deer, coyotes, wild hogs, and other creatures roam freely. Any pets must stay fully leashed at all times (see below). Our day starts early in the summer as we harvest for market. We make every effort to be very quiet, but the field crops are close to your camp site. We will never run a tractor until after 11am. You may hear the greenhouse fans kick on starting around 9am when the system starts warming up. Pets - Are welcome if contained on a leash at all times. Bathrooms - are located next to the store and a short walk from your tent site. Site - Is on level ground for tents campers RV vans and more. There is a fire pit, picnic table and water spigot. The water is not well water and comes from the county main water line. There is a main highway leading up to our gate so you do not have to off road to get to the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night

8. 20 acres for Private RV Camping

100%
(14)
22mi from Columbus · 1 site · RV
20 acres, mostly wooded, for your private camping escape in a quiet, rural setting. The level site is beside a charming, old stone house on about 2 cleared acres. Full RV hookups: city water, 30 amp & 50 amp electric, and sewer are beside the vacant stone house. Trash pickup is provided. Nice "yard" area for the RV. The RV space is very close to level. Many great spaces for tent camping and hiking. Bring your camp chairs to sit around the small firepit (just a circle of rocks, really). The property is very dark at night so if you arrive after dark, you will want to have a good flashlight. Pets are allowed. Please pick up after your dog(s). Near FD Roosevelt State Park (15 min drive) and Callaway Gardens (20 minute drive). There is an additional set of full RV hookups available but it will not be occupied unless both sites are rented as a bundle. Two RVs can park and hookup, one behind the other, in the long driveway. Learn more about this land: Private, secluded campsites on 20 acre property. Full hookups include city water, 50/30 amp electric, sewer, and trash pickup on dirt/gravel driveway that can accommodate 40+ foot diesel pusher or smaller rigs. The site is beside a vacant stone house with well kept yard and 18 acres of natural wooded property. Easily accessible on a paved road. Covered parking for your tow vehicle. There are 2 sites available. The 2nd site is available only as an add-on to rental of this site. 20 minutes from Pine Mountain GA and Callaway Gardens, 30 minutes from Columbus, GA, 15 minutes from FDR State Park, 15 Minutes from Warm Springs, GA and the Little White House, close to Flint River.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$70
 / night

9. Circle E Ranch and Funny Farm

90%
(5)
48mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Ten acres of quiet hills, young pines, and big sky—just outside Oglethorpe, GA. Park your rig, light a fire, and listen to the woods breathe. It’s simple, peaceful, and off the beaten path—primitive tent sites coming soon. Just outside the small town of Oglethorpe, this peaceful RV site offers a private, laid-back escape for travelers who appreciate nature, stars, and space to roam. What’s here now: One easy-access RV site with plenty of room Fire ring for cooking, storytelling, or just watching the flames Horseshoe pit for laid-back fun Swing set and playhouse to keep the little ones happy Wildlife sightings—deer, raccoons, opossums, foxes, and more And don’t mind Chewy, our dog and on-site welcome wagon—he’s friendly, curious, and always happy to say hello Just minutes from gas, groceries, and local food in Oglethorpe Local highlights (within 10–30 minutes): Andersonville National Historic Site – a moving Civil War memorial and POW museum Plains, Georgia – hometown of President Jimmy Carter, full of history and small-town charm Worth the drive (about 1–1.5 hours): Robins Air Force Base Museum of Aviation – one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S. National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning – powerful, immersive military history experience National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, GA – focused on naval warfare and Civil War history Coming later this year: We’re adding 2 - pioneer-style tent sites for campers who like it quiet, rustic, and real. Whether you’re here for a night or a few, this is your basecamp for calm, countryside, and classic Southern sights.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night

13. The West Point Lake House

100%
(3)
45mi from Columbus · 1 site · Lodging
This lake House is on mostly wooded lot with full 30/50 Amp RV hookups. The covered dock sits on 8 feet of water on West Point Lake. Renovated in 2022. house has 2 full bathrooms and washer and dryer. A Finished basement with walk out patio and a separate Bunk house. (Kids love it) Bring your boat! Can sleep 8. Large deck with grill, fire pits, kayaks and smore... I mean more. Cleaning fee is $225 added to stay Near Downtown LaGrange for Shopping and Dining. Beautiful Nutwood winery is about a 25 min drive away. The Oar House is a unique, fun, and tranquil lake front cabin with room for the whole family. Spacious enough to sleep 8 people, and cozy enough for 2. You will enjoy deer, turkey or maybe a fox meandering across the trail to the boat dock as you sit on the upper deck sipping your morning coffee. Hook up your camper and sit by the fire pits. One is by the cabin, and another is lakeside for a tranquil evening. 3 night minimum stay Be sure to check out our Condo on the West end of Panama City Beach, Sandy Dreams! https://www.vrbo.com/2795925?unitId=3367889
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$135
 / night

15. Branching Pines RV Park

17mi from Columbus · 3 sites
Branching Pines RV Park stands out as a serene retreat, uniquely situated among towering trees along the picturesque banks of Uchee Creek. This tranquil location offers guests a peaceful escape while being conveniently located just four minutes from the back gate of Fort Benning, GA, making it an ideal choice for military personnel and visitors alike. At Branching Pines, you will find a clean and quiet environment that is perfect for both short visits and long-term stays. The park features full-service hookups, including both 30 and 50 amp service, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. The well-maintained community fosters a welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their surroundings. In addition to its excellent amenities, Branching Pines RV Park is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities. Guests can explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and recreational areas, making it a great base for adventure. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a longer-term home, Branching Pines RV Park is the perfect destination.

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The best camping near Columbus with wildlife watching guide

Where to go

Florence Marina State Park

About 40 minutes south of Columbus, Florence Marina State Park offers terrific opportunities to fish for bass, bream, and catfish in Walter F. George Lake and Chattahoochee River. The accessible pier and boat ramp can accommodate anglers of all types who hit the bait shop in the visitor center from spring to fall. After a day on the water, spend the night glamping in a cottage, camping in a tent, or settling in at a back-in or pull-through RV campsite with full electricity and water hookups. Picnic tables, fire rings, and a children’s playground are among the amenities in this quiet Georgia park.

Tuskegee National Forest

Cross over to Alabama, less than an hour east of Columbus, to visit Tuskegee National Forest, home to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails that vary in difficulty. Check with the Tuskegee Ranger District office for camping permits at one of the year-round designated primitive campsites. For big-game hunters, Tuskegee is the only national forest in Alabama without a wildlife management area (WMA), but licenses are still required.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Less than an hour north of Columbus, near Pine Mountain, sits F.D. Roosevelt State Park—the largest state park in Georgia covering 9,000 acres. Hikers and backpackers can daytrip in or reserve a pet-friendly campsite next to a small fishing pond. Cast a line from the shore or head out in a kayak to catch catfish, bream, and largemouth bass. Back-in and pull-through RV campsites are open year-round with up to 50-amp electrical hookups, water hookups, picnic tables, and firepits. Shared amenities include laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers.

When to go

The hot and humid summer in Georgia is also the peak tourist season for campgrounds in Columbus. For a milder, quieter escape into nature, reserve a campsite in the spring or fall. In spring, daytime temperatures hover around 70°F. During this time, many campers hike among the blooming wildflowers. Fall temperatures are a bit chillier, around 60°F, with picturesque foliage creating a colorful backdrop for year-round hiking trails in the region. Spring and fall tend to be the best times for fishing near Columbus, as well, particularly for bass.