Have you ever wanted to experience an outdoor adventure where you can visit 3,712 acres of hardwood forests, scenic mountain views, historic structures, and a perfect getaway for outdoor recreational activities? If so, then you should add Fort Mountain State Park to your bucket list. 

Located at the southwestern end of the Cohutta Mountains in Northwest Georgia, Fort Mountain is a scenic wonderland rich in Georgian history and one where you can connect with nature in its purest form. 

The best way to experience this phenomenon is by RV camping near Fort Mountain State Park. This informative guide will cover everything you need for your first visit to this Georgian wonderland. These include Fort Mountain State Park facts, the best campgrounds around the area, the best time to visit, things to do in Fort Mountain State Park, and more!

Fort Mountain State Park Facts

Before heading out to your first RV camping Fort Mountain State Park trip, take some time to learn more about this park with these Fort Mountain State Park facts.
 

• Fort Mountain State Park officially opened in 1936.
• The park’s name originated from its ancient 885-foot long stone wall whose origins remain unknown.
• There is a stone fire tower on top of the mountain. Rangers use it to spot fires up to 40 miles away.
• It wasn’t until 2014 that the Georgia Department of Natural Resources restored the wooden cupola of the tower, which had burned in 1971.
• The Civilian Conservations Corps (CCC) built much of the park’s infrastructure (e.g., buildings, trails, and forestry management).

Now that you’re familiar with Fort Mountain State Park, let’s move on to the best RV campgrounds to stay in near Fort Mountain State Park.

Best Fort Mountain State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds

To help you make the most out of your Fort Mountain State Park RV camping trip, we selected five of the best RV parks near Fort Mountain State Park for your first visit.

Fort Mountain State Park Campground

Amenities: This campground is, without a doubt, one of the best RV campgrounds in Fort Mountain State Park. It’s an active campground where you get access to a multitude of outdoor activities. You can play miniature golf, hike, paddle board, and even go horseback riding. Not to mention, you also get access to cottages. Amenities include potable water, showers, and picnic tables.

Capacity: 28 RV sites

More Information: Fort Mountain State Park Campground

Camp Reggae Getaway

Amenities: Compared to other RV parks near Fort Mountain State Park, Camp Reggae is a real winner if you’re looking for a secluded area with beautiful natural scenery far from the hassles of city life. Don’t let the one-hour drive to Fort Mountain deter you from staying at this campground. You’re within walking distance of some striking natural features, including Turtletown Falls and the Ocoee River. Amenities include showers, picnic tables, trash bins, and Wi-Fi.

Capacity: 10 RV sites

More Information: Camp Reggae Getaway

411 River Rest Campground

Amenities: Located south of Chatsworth, Georgia on the Coosawattee River, 411 River Rest provides a “family-type” atmosphere with access to multiple recreational areas like golf courses. Best of all, you can also visit historical landmarks such as the God’s Acre and the Chief Vann House. If convenience and family-friendly settings are big priorities for you, then 411 River Rest is one of the best RV parks near Fort Mountain State Park.

Capacity: 65 RV sites

More Information: 411 River Rest Campground

Doll Mountain Campground

Amenities: Spend a couple of days at the Northern Georgia Mountains right by the Caters Lake by staying at the Doll Mountain Campground. There’s no shortage of fun at this campground since visitors can engage in multiple water sports, including boating, swimming, and fishing. After the sun has set and you and your family have settled down, make sure you take full advantage of the grill, BBQ, and fire pit at your site.

Capacity: 51 RV sites

More Information: Doll Mountain Campground

Diamond Lure Campground & RV Resort

Amenities: No guide to RV parks near Fort Mountain State Park would be complete without mentioning Diamond Lure. Often referred to as “the best-kept secret in North Georgia,” this campground is situated in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Spend a day hiking in the wilderness areas, or better yet, enjoy some fishing in their private 15-acre spring-fed lake. Visitors get access to showers, restrooms, full hookups, and Wi-Fi.

Capacity: 56 RV sites

More Information: Diamond Lure Campground & RV Resort 

Best Time to Visit Fort Mountain State Park for RV Camping

A Fort Mountain State Park RV camping trip is a unique experience. To help you decide on the best time to visit Fort Mountain State Park, continue reading to learn what visitors should expect each season.

Winter

During the peak of the winter season (mid-January), you can expect average daytime temperatures of 54 degrees Fahrenheit with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 29 degrees. You can also expect an average of six hours of sunshine throughout January. That said, if you enjoy camping in the winter, then winter might just be the best time to visit Fort Mountain State Park.

Spring

By mid-March, Fort Mountain reaches an average of 67 degrees Fahrenheit with an overnight low of 40 degrees, so be sure to pack a sweater and a jacket for those frigid nights. If you enjoy changing scenery, then consider hiking the Big Rock Nature Trail — a 0.75-mile loop where you’ll see an abundance of blooming wildflowers.

Summer

Summertime is considered the “peak season” for Fort Mountain. At the height of the season in July, visitors can expect daily highs of 90 degrees. That said, because of the park’s elevation at 2,850 feet above sea level, the humidity is low. On top of that, you can cool off at the park’s 17-acre lake by kayaking or paddle boarding. Do note that you might encounter a bear or two during this season.

Fall

By fall, Fort Mountain’s natural scenery changes. The leaves on the trees change colors, giving viewers a mesmerizing sight filled with yellow, red, and orange. It’s no wonder Fort Mountain was named one of the best Georgia State Parks to visit during the fall season. By October, the average maximum temperature will drop to 71 degrees, while the average minimum temperature will hover at around 48 degrees.

Things To Do in Fort Mountain State Park

To make sure you make the most out of your first adventure, here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Fort Mountain State Park.
 

• Hiking: You can explore several trails that take you through historical structures, gorgeous sunsets, and mountain overlooks. For an easy experience, hike the Big Rock Nature Trail, which takes you through several cascades and waterfalls. If you’re up for the challenge, take on the 8.7-mile loop Gahuti Trail. Be aware that this hike takes approximately five hours to complete.
• Biking: There are four loop trails that make up the biking trails: the Lake Loop Trail, the Goldmine Loop, the Cool Springs Loop, and the East-West Loop Trail. If you have some experience on the wheels, then you’ll certainly enjoy the East-West Loop as you’ll come across several hillsides and waterfalls.
• Fishing: For something more soothing, yet enjoyable, consider fishing on the park’s 17-acre lake. Fortunately, the lake is open to fishing all year during park hours so you won’t have to worry about making the trip during certain times of the year. Note that you are required to have a fishing license.
• Swimming: If you’re an avid swimmer, you’ll be happy to know that Fort Mountain offers several swimming locations. You can take a dip at the lakeside beach or the seven-acre lake close to Campground 1. However, there is no lifeguard present at these locations, so proceed with caution if you decide to swim.
• Horseback Riding: Horseback riders can ride across the park’s 25 miles of equestrian trails. You also have the option of renting a stall. If you do decide to bring your horse, keep in mind the following rules: You must present a negative Coggins test. Avoid riding on the roadways.

Tips on Visiting Fort Mountain State Park

Before getting into your RV rental Fort Mountain State Park needs, be sure to go through these tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
 

• Remember that, by law, children 15 years old and younger must wear a helmet while riding a bike. 
• For safety concerns, swimmers should stay in the roped-off areas at the lakeside beaches.
• Pets are not allowed on the beach.
• Remember that the beach closes by sundown.
• If you want to avoid large crowds, then consider visiting Fort Mountain in the fall.

RV Rental for Fort Mountain State Park

You have finally reached the end of this guide designed to enhance your Fort Mountain State Park RV camping experience! If you’re looking for an RV rental for your trip, consider getting an RV rental from Cruise America.

Their wide range of RVs each come equipped with multiple features, such as a shower, bedding, and seating space. Now you can make the journey as memorable as the destination.

Don’t delay visiting your dream destinations. Contact Cruise America, and reserve an RV rental Fort Mountain State Park vehicle today.