RV Resorts Near Atlanta, GA: Best Spots Within a Short Drive
If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and looking for an RV resort near the city, you don’t have to go far to find full hookups, scenic lakes, and easy access to local attractions. Whether you live in Atlanta and want a quick weekend escape or you’re visiting the city in your RV, there are several well-developed RV parks and resorts within about 1–1.5 hours of downtown.
Below is a practical guide to RV resorts near Atlanta, GA, what each area is known for, and how to choose the right spot for your trip.
Quick-Glance: Notable RV Resorts Near Atlanta
(Approximate drive times are from downtown Atlanta, traffic permitting.)
| RV Resort / Area | Approx. Distance & Direction | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Mountain Park Campground | ~30 min E | Lakeside sites, family activities, park attractions |
| Lake Lanier / Margaritaville area | ~45–60 min NE | Lake views, water activities, seasonal attractions |
| McKinney Campground (Allatoona) | ~45 min NW | Lakefront sites, wooded setting, COE campground |
| Red Top Mountain area (Allatoona) | ~45–60 min NW | Hiking, lake access, state park environment |
| Atlanta South RV Resort (McDonough) | ~30–40 min S | Easy I‑75 access, overnight and short stays |
| Sweetwater Creek area (Lithia Springs) | ~25–35 min W | Close-to-city escape, trails, river scenery |
| High Falls Lake area (High Falls) | ~50–70 min S | Quiet lake, more laid-back, easy from I‑75 |
1. Stone Mountain Park Campground (East of Atlanta)
Location:
Stone Mountain Park Campground
4003 Stonewall Jackson Dr
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Why it’s popular near Atlanta
For many Atlanta residents, Stone Mountain is the closest thing to a “classic” RV resort environment within a short commute:
- Full hookups available at many sites
- Mix of pull-through and back-in sites
- Wooded and lakeside campsites on Stone Mountain Lake
- Easy access to park attractions like walking trails, the walk-up trail, and seasonal events
This is a strong choice if you:
- Want to sightsee around Atlanta by day but sleep in your RV nearby
- Prefer a family-friendly setting with mini golf, playgrounds, and park amenities
- Don’t want to drive far from I‑285 or downtown
What to consider
- Stone Mountain is popular on weekends and holidays; advanced reservations are often needed.
- Entry to the park usually involves a separate daily parking or access fee, on top of camping costs.
- Expect a more active, busy atmosphere than a remote, quiet campground.
2. RV Resorts Near Lake Lanier (Northeast of Atlanta)
General area: Around Lake Lanier, northeast of Atlanta, in and near Buford, Gainesville, and Flowery Branch.
Lake Lanier is one of the most popular lake destinations for Atlanta residents, and several RV-friendly parks and private resorts are located around its shoreline. Some are closer to the entertainment areas near Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, while others are quieter and more residential.
Common features at RV resorts and campgrounds around Lake Lanier include:
- Full or partial hookups (water/electric, sometimes sewer)
- Sites near or directly on the lake
- Boat ramps, marinas, or nearby docks
- Access to beaches, swimming areas, or water sports
If you’re staying here while visiting Atlanta, you’re typically:
- About 45 minutes to 1 hour from downtown (longer in heavy traffic)
- Close to suburban shopping and dining in Buford and Gainesville
- Surrounded by lake and forest rather than urban scenery
Best for:
- RV travelers who want a “lake vacation” plus a city day trip into Atlanta
- Families interested in water activities and seasonal attractions
- Longer weekend stays where you balance relaxing at camp with occasional trips into the city
3. Lake Allatoona Area: McKinney and Red Top Mountain (Northwest)
Northwest of Atlanta along I‑75, the Lake Allatoona area has several RV-friendly campgrounds. Two of the most known to Atlanta locals are McKinney Campground and the area around Red Top Mountain.
McKinney Campground (Corps of Engineers)
Location:
McKinney Campground (COE)
6659 McKinney Campground Rd SE
Acworth, GA 30102
This is a Corps of Engineers (COE) campground right on Lake Allatoona, within easy driving distance of Atlanta.
Common features:
- Electric and water hookups at many sites
- Quite a few lakefront or lake-view sites
- Wooded setting with more “natural” feel than a typical urban RV park
- Boat ramp nearby and good fishing access
COE campgrounds like McKinney are well-known among RV owners for offering:
- Reasonable rates for the location and scenery
- Well-maintained bathhouses and grounds
- A quieter, more nature-focused atmosphere
If you live in Atlanta and want a quick “feel-like-you’re-away” weekend without driving too far, McKinney is often on the shortlist.
Red Top Mountain State Park Area
Park office:
Red Top Mountain State Park
50 Lodge Rd SE
Acworth, GA 30102
Red Top Mountain State Park has traditionally offered camping and is a popular day trip and overnight spot for metro Atlanta residents:
- Wooded, hilly terrain on a peninsula of Lake Allatoona
- Access to hiking trails, swimming beach, and picnic areas
- RV-capable sites (check max lengths and hookups before booking)
Best for:
- Campers who prioritize trails and nature over resort-style amenities
- A base camp that still keeps you less than an hour from the city
4. Atlanta South RV Resort (South of the City)
Location:
Atlanta South RV Resort
281 Mt Olive Rd
McDonough, GA 30253
Situated just off I‑75 in McDonough, Atlanta South RV Resort is geared toward people who:
- Need an easy on/off stop while passing through the Atlanta area
- Want an RV park within 30–40 minutes of downtown
- Prefer a setting with more typical RV park amenities instead of a rustic campground
Typical features include:
- Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Pull-through sites helpful for larger rigs
- Laundry, restrooms, and other traveler conveniences
Because of its location along I‑75, it’s a common choice for:
- Snowbirds and long-distance travelers who need a night or two near Atlanta
- Metro Atlanta residents looking for a short-distance practice run with a new RV
- Visitors who want a straight highway shot into the city for attractions, events, or medical appointments
5. Sweetwater Creek Area (West of Atlanta)
Reference point:
Sweetwater Creek State Park
1750 Mt Vernon Rd
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
On the west side of the metro, near I‑20, the Sweetwater Creek area provides a close-by nature escape. The state park itself is known for:
- Trails along Sweetwater Creek and the ruins of the New Manchester Mill
- Quiet woodlands and scenic river views
- Proximity to Atlanta (roughly 20–30 minutes from downtown, depending on traffic)
Some RV-compatible camping opportunities exist in and around this area, with:
- Sites that can handle smaller to mid-size RVs (exact sizes vary)
- A more “campground” than “resort” atmosphere
- Focus on hiking and nature instead of built-up entertainment
Best for:
- Atlanta residents looking for a quick overnight or weekend retreat without much driving
- Visitors who want easy access to both nature and central Atlanta
6. High Falls Lake Area (South Along I‑75)
Reference point:
High Falls State Park
76 High Falls Park Dr
Jackson, GA 30233
Further down I‑75 south from Atlanta, the High Falls area is a favorite between-Atlanta-and-Macon stop for RVers.
What you’ll usually find nearby:
- RV-friendly camping options around High Falls State Park
- Access to the Towaliga River, waterfalls, and lake
- More relaxed, less urban setting than parks closer to Atlanta
While this area is farther than some Atlanta-adjacent options, it’s still usually under one and a half hours from downtown, making it suitable for:
- Weekend or long-weekend stays for those living in the metro area
- Travelers who want a quieter park but still be within reach of Atlanta attractions
7. How to Choose the Right RV Resort Near Atlanta
When you’re deciding among RV resorts and campgrounds around Atlanta, a few practical points can help you narrow options quickly.
Distance vs. Experience
Ask yourself:
Do you want to spend most of your time in Atlanta and just sleep in your RV nearby?
- Consider Stone Mountain Park Campground or Atlanta South RV Resort for easier city access.
Do you want a nature or lake getaway first, and a city day trip second?
- Look at Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona (McKinney, Red Top), or High Falls.
Hookups and Site Size
Not all parks around Atlanta have the same level of RV support. Check:
- Whether they offer full hookups (water, electric, sewer) or only water/electric
- Amps (30/50) to match your RV
- Site length and width limits, especially if you have a large motorhome or fifth wheel
- Whether there are pull-through sites if you’re not comfortable backing in
Access and Driving Conditions
Greater Atlanta traffic can heavily impact your experience:
- Look at how the resort connects to I‑75, I‑85, I‑20, or I‑285.
- Estimate drive times during rush hour if you plan to drive into the city for Braves games, concerts, or appointments.
- If you’re new to driving an RV in traffic, consider resort locations that require minimal urban navigation.
Atmosphere: Resort vs. Rustic
Around Atlanta, you’ll find:
- Resort-style RV parks with more paved sites, amenities, and direct highway access.
- More natural campgrounds run by state parks or the Corps of Engineers, with trees, water views, and quieter nights.
Think about:
- Do you want pools, playgrounds, and organized activities?
- Or do you prefer trails, wildlife, and campfires with fewer frills?
8. Local Tips for RVers Staying Near Atlanta
A few practical Atlanta-specific pointers can make your stay smoother:
Plan your city driving times.
- Try to enter or exit the city outside of typical rush hours (roughly 6:30–9:00 a.m. and 3:30–7:00 p.m. on weekdays).
Check event calendars.
- Major events at venues like Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Truist Park, Fox Theatre, or State Farm Arena can spike traffic near downtown and on main interstates.
Consider parking options.
- Most RV travelers park their RV at the resort and take a tow vehicle or rideshare into the city. Large RV parking in central Atlanta can be limited, especially near popular attractions.
Book early for peak seasons.
- Around spring break, summer, and fall football weekends, campgrounds and RV resorts within driving distance often fill quickly.
Know where to find basic supplies.
- Most RV resorts near Atlanta are close to big-box stores and grocery chains along major corridors like I‑75, I‑85, and GA‑400.
- Keep a short list of nearby fuel stations that are easy for larger rigs to enter and exit.
9. Helpful Atlanta-Area Contact Points for RV Travelers
While these aren’t RV resorts themselves, they can be useful for planning and support when you’re staying near Atlanta:
Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites (for state park camping info)
Georgia Department of Natural Resources – Parks Division
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr SE, Suite 1252 East Tower
Atlanta, GA 30334
Main information lines can direct you to camping details, reservation systems, and park-specific questions.U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Allatoona Lake Project Management Office
(For Corps of Engineers campgrounds like McKinney)
1138 GA‑20 Spur
Cartersville, GA 30121Georgia Visitor Information Center – Atlanta Airport
Near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Helpful for regional brochures, maps, and general Atlanta travel information.
Staying at an RV resort near Atlanta, GA gives you the flexibility to enjoy big-city attractions and still come “home” to a campsite by the woods or water each night. Whether you prioritize quick access to downtown, lakeside relaxation, or a true campground atmosphere, there is a nearby option that fits an Atlanta-focused trip.