Whether you and Gizmo have Georgia on your mind or you're residents of The Big Peach, Atlanta is home to more dog-friendly places than you can shake your buddy's favorite stick at. Coffee connoisseurs and their canines are taken care of here with dozens of dog-friendly coffee shops and cafes. Several dog parks are also scattered throughout the city where you can sniff out some new four-legged friends.
Sure, there are plenty of dog-friendly hotels in Atlanta where you can spend a night or three. On the other paw, dog-friendly campgrounds near Atlanta are a "grrreat" budget-friendly option that allows you and your fur-baby to trade the busy city streets for an adventure down by the lake or up in the mountains. Scroll down to discover the top dog campgrounds in Atlanta. Once you've picked a favorite, all you need to do is pack up the car and hit the road!
If you really want to escape civilization for a weekend, make the half-hour drive to Sweetwater Creek State Park. The park's primitive campground offers just 5 tent sites, so be sure to snag one in advance. This serene spot is a haven for paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers. Fido's favorite attraction will surely be the trail network, which winds through meadows and forests, along the creek, and past the ruins of a historic mill.
Stone Mountain State Park is situated 27 miles east of downtown has plenty of room for your crew, and that includes the canines! Choose from more than 400 sites for tents and RVs complete with all the trimmings, including full hookups, clean bathhouses, and complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV. Leashed, well-behaved doggos are welcome. Don't forget to check the event schedule — there's always something fun happening at Stone Mountain Park!
Nestled on Lake Allatoona, McKinney Campground is the most "pawpular" dog-friendly Corps of Engineers campground near Atlanta. Pitch the tent or park the RV at one of 150 lakeview sites boasting electric and water hookups, then leash up and get ready for all the fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching you can handle. Up to three of your best furry friends are welcome to tag along.
Steal away to Duckett Mill Campground and lounge by Lake Lanier with Lassie. Just over 55 miles northeast of Atlanta, Duckett Mill has more than 100 dog-friendly campsites complete with all the creature comforts of home, like restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Once you're feeling refreshed, head down to the fishing jetty and cast a line for bream, bass, and catfish. Your favorite fishing companion can join you as long as they're on-leash.
Cedar Creek Park combines the conveniences of a privately owned RV park with the outdoor activities of a state park. Snag a full-hookup site or set up your tent, then venture down to Cedar Creek for a little fly fishing. As long as your canine camping companion stays leashed and doesn't bark excessively, they're welcome to join in the family-friendly fun. Cedar Creek is 85 miles west of Atlanta in Cave Spring.
A seventh heaven for hound-dog hikers, this "furrific" state park in Acworth boasts a 15-mile trail system that caters to all fitness levels. Wander past a restored homestead from the mid-1800s and get a glimpse of the area's wildlife. After your hike, rest up at one of 92 campsites, some of which offer hookups and beautiful views of Lake Allatoona. Or, stay in style in one of the park's pet-friendly cabins.
Don't let the name fool you: this park is a tranquil tract that delivers peace and quiet in spades. Located an hour east of Atlanta in Rutledge, Hard Labor Creek comes complete with over 50 campsites, a handful of which feature full hookups. Three of the cottages are also pet-friendly if you prefer your creature comforts. Get settled, then gear up to explore the hiking trails and the popular golf course.
This small, county-managed park located an hour west of Atlanta in Carrollton is the "pawfect" place to camp out with the family — fur-children included! Book one of the park's 30 campsites for tents and RVs and get ready to have a ball. (A tennis ball, that is.) Take a stroll on the nature trail, play some putt-putt or volleyball, cast a line in the lake, or paddle out onto the water.
Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Lanier, Van Pugh South Campground is "ruffly" 55 miles northeast of urban Atlanta. Van Pugh's 37 RV sites come equipped with electric and water hookups, while an additional 18 tent sites offer a back-to-nature experience. Thanks to the clean restroom and shower facilities, past patrons give this canine-friendly campground four paws up! This spot is particularly popular with stand-up paddleboarders, kayakers, and anglers.
Located 106 miles north in Hiawassee, Enota Mountain Retreat is the best dog-friendly campground near Atlanta for a weekend getaway in the North Georgia Mountains. Tent sites, RV spaces, cabins, motel rooms: you name it, Enota has it. This eco-conscious estate even boasts its own biodiverse farm and garden, plus a fishing hole. The kids are sure to love the trampolines. Your favorite camping companion is welcome to join you for an extra fee.