Georgia RV & Camping: Time, Dates & Rules (With Examples)

The United States is a large country with many beautiful natural outdoor sights.

These natural attractions include hiking or biking trails, waterfalls, beaches, undisturbed forests, and scenic views.

But what is the best time to camp in the state of Georgia?

Peak Camping Times in Georgia:

Peak camping times in Georgia can include the seasons of Spring, Summer, and Fall.

If you are from a northern state, you might not consider camping in the winter, but this is not a problem in Georgia.

Can You Go RVing in Georgia Outside these Dates?

Georgia, being a southern state, does not experience a harsh winter like the states in the north of the country.

Camping in Georgia could be all year long, allowing campers to enjoy both the sights and the sites whenever the mood strikes.

One thing to note, when camping out of season, is that you will want to call ahead to determine if all the amenities are still operational, or if some services are not offered during certain times of the year, such as electricity, water, or waste removal sites.

Things to keep in mind while camping in Georgia in the off-season include:

Weather

Weather is a big part of camping, no matter where you are going or when you intend to go there. Even in the most pleasant months, you can still experience rain or other inclement weather that can put a halt on your outdoor adventures.

When camping in Georgia in the summer, you can expect hot and humid temperatures.

In the winter, however, it will not be as warm. Unlike the northern states, though, winter does not last long in Georgia, and average temperatures range from a low of 50 degrees F to a high in the ’60s.

Snow

Additionally, if you intend to camp somewhere with the risk of snow, there are things to keep in mind.

Georgia does see snow in the winter in the northern part of the state.

Camping in a winter wonderland might seem intimidating, but some tricks will get you through it and will make a memorable experience that might have you coming back again and again.

Tips for surviving in the snow while camping include:

1. Wear layers. This might seem obvious, but a good base layer and proper gloves will make all the difference in winter camping.
2. Get a good sleeping bag. Again, obvious, but keeping warm is essential to the enjoyment of your trip.
3. Keep a fire going at all times. This makes it easier to stay warm at all times instead of trying to warm back up.
4. Keep your gear in your tent or RV. This keeps your items warm, like your boots, and won’t require you to put on cold items in the morning.
5. Bring warm beverages. Coffee, hot chocolate, and ciders are not only festive this time of year but will do a great job of keeping you warm inside as well as out.

Elevation

Elevation can be a tricky thing. Georgia is no stranger to different elevations and has a mountain range that can cause different temperatures at different elevations in the mountains.

If you intend to camp, or hike around, in these mountains, make sure you prepare for multiple types of weather depending on your location. It is always a good idea to do research first, so you are always prepared for what you can expect.

Winter Special Rates

Because it is less likely for people to want to camp in the off-season, some places to camp in Georgia will offer deals or rate specials.

If you are a bargain lover, this might be the perfect time to take the family out for a great and less expensive vacation.

Where Can you Camp for Free in Georgia?

If you are looking for a free camping experience in Georgia, there are some options out there for you.

These options include:

Out in the Wild

Camping in nature instead of a campsite can mean a lack of the amenities you are used to but can be unbeatable in terms of views and overall experience.

Wildlife Management Areas

Some Wildlife Management areas in Georgia offer free campsites that you can use.

There will be slightly more amenities at these sites, but you might want to be prepared for a non-electric or minimal amenity site if you have an RV.

State Parks

Similar to other states, State Parks in Georgia often offer free camping.

This can be a great way to take advantage of nature and explore all that Georgia offers.

Can You Camp on Public Hunting Land in Georgia?

If you enjoy camping and hunting, camping on public hunting land can seem like the best situation.

That leaves the question: Can you camp on public hunting land in Georgia?

The short answer is yes, but are rules that you need to be aware of if you intend to camp on public hunting grounds in the state of Georgia.

These rules include:

1. Camping must be done in a designated campground unless alternative rules are posted at the check-in station.
2. Campfires must also be in designated campground areas only unless otherwise stated.
3. Camping is limited to a maximum of 14 days. When 14 days are complete, you must remove all personal property. Afterward, you cannot reestablish a campsite until 7 days have passed. This includes the same site or anywhere within a one-mile radius of the original site.
4. DNR-managed campsites might come with a fee or require reservations.
5. Quiet hours begin at 10 pm.
6. Loaded firearms are prohibited in camping areas unless you have a Weapons Carry License.
7. No carving, cutting, or damaging of live trees. Dead or fallen trees may be used for firewood.
8. Don’t camp in areas that are indicated to be off-limits.
9. It is encouraged that you wear orange during hunting season if you intend to hike or walk outside designated camping areas.
10. Motor vehicles are only to be used on roads that are open for vehicle access.

State Park Regulations in Georgia

When camping in a Georgia State Park, you will want to be sure to follow all listed rules and regulations.

These can vary state to state, but the ones to note that are specific to Georgia are as follows:

1. No Smoking in any enclosed facility.
2. All pets must be leashed (6 feet or shorter).
3. Pets must be cleaned up after.
4. Pets are not allowed in State Park Buildings.
5. Firewood from other states is not allowed to contain invasive pests.
6. Loaded Weapons are prohibited unless the owner is properly licensed.
7. Don’t remove natural or unnatural items from the park.
8. Painting, carving, or otherwise vandalizing rocks, wood, or other resources is not allowed.
9. Quiet Hours are between 10 pm, and 7 am.
10. Visitors must leave before closing and must not exceed stated capacity at any time.
11. Drone operation is prohibited in Georgia’s State Parks and other Historic Sites.

Sources:

GA Department of Natural Resources | GA State Parks

7 CAN’T-MISS GEORGIA STATE PARKS FOR YOUR BUCKET LIST