The best camping near Tugaloo State Park

Situated on a wooded peninsula on the shores of northeastern Georgia’s Lake Hartwell, Tugaloo takes its name from the Indigenous name for the river that (before the construction of a dam) flowed through it. The lake is a top spot for swimming, water skiing, sailing and boating: the park has a six-lane mega ramp used for large fishing tournaments and easy lake access. Hikers can follow two hiking trails that follow the lakeshore and wind through oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry tree-filled forests. RV and tent campers can choose between the developed campground’s 105 sites or 11 walk-in, primitive sites. 

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

Tugaloo State Park is open all year round and is at its most appealing in summer when you can cool off and splash around in the water. The lake is popular with swimmers and boaters during the warmer months, while the hiking trails see more traffic in the fall. Summer temperatures are typically between the low 80s to low 90s, dropping to the 60s and 70s in fall and spring and the mid-40s in winter. 

• As well as camping, accommodation options include cottages with private boat docks and a handful of yurts, which require reservations
• In the summer, canoes and kayaks can be rented in the park. 
• Deer are plentiful in the wooded park, so watch out for them on the roads.
• All pets must be on a six-foot leash and continuously attended. Pets are not allowed in swimming areas or in any buildings.