If you're in need of taking in some fresh air on sunny days and trying something new with your loved ones, camping in Georgia is your answer.
More on camping in Georgia:
5 places to go 'glamping' near Atlanta
The Peach State offers glamping as well as traditional sites and dozens of parks, but the common spots − Sweetwater Creek State Park, Stone Mountain and Red Top − get pretty busy. So, how about taking your next camping excursion at a hidden gem in Georgia.
Here's a look at some of the most often-overlooked campsites for cozying up under the stars:
17515 Highway 177, Fargo.
Just a four-hour drive from Atlanta, this park located in the Okefenokee Swamp is truly spectacular. So spectacular that the International Dark Sky Association has made the park Georgia's first "International Dark Sky Park." Outstanding views of the moon, stars and comets can be seen because the area isn't a highly polluted one. It offers cottages for rent as well as 60 campsites, including primitive and RV hookups.
Reserve your spot at this Georgia treasure.
Credit: alampasona
Credit: alampasona
6616 Blythe Island Highway, Brunswick.
Camp at this charming park in Brunswick for a simple escape. All sites have water, electric, sewer and cable. In addition to camping, the park offers a freshwater lake for swimming and fishing as well as hiking and biking trails. The park is surrounded by attractions such as Sea Island, St. Simons Island, great shopping and award-winning golf courses.
To make reservations, call Blythe Island Regional Park: 800-343-7855 or 912-279-2812.
52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah.
Located near historic Savannah, this park borders Skidaway narrows, a part of Georgia's Intracoastal Waterway. Camp at spacious sites under the Spanish moss and watch for deer, egrets and other wildlife. Skidaway is a wonderful getaway for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. If you need a cooldown from activity, check out the park's interpretive center, or find yourself on one of Tybee Island's beaches less than an hour away.
Check availability here.
405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville.
Camp along Wolf Creek and enjoy the babble of tumbling waters after exploring one of Georgia's oldest and most beloved state parks. It's located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest, providing exceptional views for visitors. The park's 22-acre lake is open to non-motorized boats, and when the weather's warm enough, cooling off at its mountain view beach is a must.
Book a campsite here.
2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge.
Panola Mountain State Park was created in the early 1970s to protect the delicate ecological features of this 100-acre granite monadnock. The mountain is similar to both Stone Mountain and Arabia Mountain but, unlike either, it has never been quarried. In addition to hiking, archery, geocaching and tree climbing are available.
Reserve a spot at Atlanta's crown jewel.
678 Lake Clark Road, Flovilla.
Located near Jackson and Flovilla, this park is named for its several springs, which the Creek Indians used to heal the sick. Visitors can still sample the water flowing inside the stone Spring House built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Enjoy wading in Sandy Creek, walking trails and historic views.
Check availability here.
8930 Canyon Road, Lumpkin.
Frequently referred to as Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon," this park is a testament to the power of man's influence on the land. Massive gullies as deep as 150 feet were caused by poor farming practices during the 1800s, yet today they make some of the prettiest photographs within the state. Find an abundance of colorful wildflowers and ample opportunities for stargazing during your stay.
Book a campsite here.
