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Take an overnight or weekend long trip just 30 minutes outside of Atlanta and discover one of Georgia's best camping spots. Surrounded by emerald-colored Lake Allatoona, miles of great trails, and awesome facilities, this spot has quickly become one of my favorite local getaways.
Red Top Mountain State Park finds itself just 30 minutes up I-75 from the urban sprawl of Atlanta, and it is surprising how quickly you can forget exactly how close you are to the city with just one night of camping here.  The State Park has a range of activities to offer, so there is bound to be something that will make for a great camping experience for your friends and family.
With over 90 campsites and 18 fully furnished cottages, choosing your camping accommodation could not be easier.  Many of the camp sites have beautiful views of Lake Allatoona, so you can hardly go wrong no matter where you end up!  Out of the tent sites, some have electric outlets and water spouts and others do without those luxuries.  However, all campsites have a fire ring with an adjustable grill, a picnic table, and a pole to hang your waste bags.   All they are missing is a couple chairs, a tent, and some tasty camp food!   Firewood and ice are sold at the park office.  In the campground you will also find multiple 'comfort stations' which have well maintained bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
When it comes to things to do in the park, the possibilities are as close to endless as it gets in Georgia.  The lake provides opportunities for great bass and catfish fishing, boating, and paddling.  There are even a couple small beaches near the campsites and along the trails if you want to get your tan on and go swimming in the summer!
On top of that, the park has over 15 miles of hiking trails to set foot on.  All of the hiking trails are short to moderate in length, the longest being the Homestead Loop, which I recorded at being just under 6 miles, and the shortest being the half-mile White Tail Trail.  With that said, all of the trails are pretty easy and have mild elevation gains.  The 4 mile Iron Hill is a multi-purpose trail that is enjoyed by hikers and mountain bikers alike.  Since the park is surrounded by Lake Allatoona, the majority of the trails have great views and access to the lake, which can be awesome for both sunrise and sunset.  The trails and campsite alike are nestled amongst old-growth Longleaf Pine and Oak forests.
Oh, and the park has a mini-golf course! Mic drop...
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Camp at Red Top Mountain State Park
We’ve camped here twice and both times it’s been very pleasant. The Staff is always very helpful and it’s a gorgeous place to camp, there’s some camp sites right on the water.
Camp at Red Top Mountain State Park
Great place to visit just down from the house for my wife and I. Mostly built up around using the lake and having a boat though.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Hike and Swim at Red Top Mountain
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