Lake Russell Recreation Area
4.3578 reviews3059 Lake Russell Road
Lake Russell Recreation Area
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric campsites range from $24 to $48 per night. Tent-Only Nonelectric sites are $24 per night. Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee online, $9 through the call center, or $3 in-person.
About this campground
Escape to Lake Russell Recreation Area, where 42 thoughtfully designed campsites await beneath the canopy of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, each site comes equipped with everything you need for the perfect outdoor experience – from crackling fire rings for evening gatherings to sturdy picnic tables and convenient lantern hooks. Beyond your campsite, adventure beckons at every turn: cast a line into the pristine waters, take a refreshing dip at the sandy swimming beach, launch your boat for a day of exploration, or hit the trails that wind through this mountain paradise. With dedicated picnic areas perfect for family gatherings and a well-maintained boat ramp providing easy lake access, Lake Russell transforms camping into an unforgettable journey.
Lake Russell Recreation Area offers campsites for tents and RVs, providing a traditional camping experience without modern hookups. The campground features 42 campsites, divided into two paved loops, and is well-suited for groups and families.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where natural wonders and human history intertwine beautifully. Just a short drive away, the historic Chenocetah Fire Tower stands as a sentinel over the forest, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's fire-watching heritage. The thundering cascade of Anna Ruby Falls, where two creeks unite in a spectacular 153-foot drop, has drawn visitors for generations and remains one of Georgia's most photographed natural attractions. These nearby treasures add layers of discovery to your camping experience, inviting you to explore the rich tapestry of stories woven throughout this mountain region.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect climate control in the mountains of North Georgia, where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool even when the valleys below swelter. The mountain air provides natural relief from the heat, though occasional humid days bring out the local insect population – a small price to pay for summer paradise. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of colors with crisp, comfortable days ideal for hiking. Winter brings a peaceful chill that turns morning coffee into a warming ritual, while spring awakens the forest with moderate temperatures perfect for witnessing wildflowers burst into bloom. Each season offers its own magic, creating year-round opportunities for outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched within the rolling peaks and valleys of North Georgia's mountainous terrain, Lake Russell sits at an elevation that delivers naturally cooler temperatures and breathtaking vistas. While specific elevation markers aren't posted, you'll feel the difference as you climb into this mountain refuge, where the air grows crisper and the views expand with each ascending mile. The campground's mountain setting creates its own microclimate, offering relief from summer heat and stunning seasonal changes that lowland locations simply can't match.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where the sparkling 100-acre Lake Russell reflects the surrounding forest like nature's mirror. Ancient rhododendrons burst with color in season, while sourwood trees paint the hillsides with their distinctive blooms and brilliant fall foliage. Keep your eyes peeled for delicate lady slippers hiding along the forest floor – these rare orchid beauties are just one of many botanical treasures waiting to be discovered. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent turtle sightings basking on sunny logs, while the occasional black bear sighting reminds visitors they're truly in the wild heart of Georgia. The marriage of water and forest creates endless photo opportunities and moments of pure natural wonder.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, where ancient mountains tell stories written in stone and stream. This corner of North Georgia showcases the southern Appalachian landscape at its finest – a geological wonderland where weathered peaks create natural air conditioning and crystal-clear streams carve their paths through valleys millions of years in the making. The mountainous terrain doesn't just provide stunning backdrops; it creates a unique ecosystem where northern and southern species mingle, making every hike a journey through diverse natural communities. Here, the very rocks beneath your feet speak of continental collisions and eons of patient erosion that sculpted this outdoor playground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative content, though flush toilets and paved loops are available, which may be beneficial for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some sites specifically noted for being spacious enough to accommodate multiple tents. For example, one reviewer described a campsite as having 'plenty of space for 2-2 people tents.'
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies. Some sites offer excellent seclusion and distance from neighbors, while others are closer together. A reviewer mentioned, 'Spaces are fairly well spread out with some privacy,' but another noted that some campsites are 'tiny, with neighbors right on top of us.'
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and lake views, select sites like #13 or #39. Sites close to amenities include #36 and #32. Avoid sites with maintenance issues (e.g., rotten stairs).
Best CampsitesSite #13 is noted for its peaceful and scenic lake view (walk-in site). Site #39 has spaciousness and privacy. Sites #36 and #32 are close to bathrooms and water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:01 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed per visit, with a total of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact limits on guests per site are not detailed, but user reviews suggest sites are spacious enough for small groups and families.
Groups
No specific information about designated group camping sites is available in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo paved loops (Loop A and Loop B) provide easy access to facilities. Sites vary in size and shade, with some closer to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round (January 1 - December 31). Reservation bookings operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (website or app).
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available by reservation only; no walk-up availability mentioned in authoritative sources.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the scheduled arrival date incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. No refunds for cancellations on check-in day.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Lake Russell Recreation Area offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. Official sources highlight activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The campground also has easy access to the adjacent Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area and its numerous trails, including the Lady Slipper Trail and the Lake Russell Foot Trail.
User reviews elaborate on these activities. One camper noted, 'Great for beginner paddlers and very peaceful,' while another reviewer appreciated the hiking trails, commenting, 'The hiking was wonderful, even the rain didn’t ruin the trip.' However, some issues with trail maintenance were expressed, such as 'trails also need some attention.'
Hiking
Multiple trails are available within the Lake Russell Recreation Area, including the Lady Slipper Trail, Lake Russell Foot Trail, and Rhododendron Trail. User experiences with the trails vary. One camper found the trails 'relatively easy,' though some parts required walking their bike. Another reviewer mentioned, 'The Lake Russell Loop Trail is not well marked,' which led to confusion and longer hikes.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the lake. One user review describes the area as 'a great lake for fishing,' with the serene environment enhancing the experience.Swimming
Swimming is available in a designated, roped-off area near the grass-covered beach. Some users found the grassy beach preferable to sandy beaches as it minimized sand-related mess, but the slippery stairs to the swimming area were noted as a hazard.Biking
Biking is available on several trails, which users have described as 'relatively easy' with occasional challenging sections. One camper shared, 'The trail that loops around the lake was pretty awesome. Most parts were relatively easy; some parts were a bit tough.'Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp available on-site. Non-motorized boats such as kayaks and canoes are commonly used, as highlighted by one reviewer who said, 'Lake Russell is a quiet, peaceful place with no generators running or power boats making waves.'Wildlife viewing
Visitors commonly report opportunities to observe wildlife in the area. One camper remarked, 'The area was very scenic, and we saw some wildlife.' Another noted, 'This place is full of turtles.'Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around a grassy beach area with a roped-off swimming section. User reviews often appreciate the unique grass-covered beach, though slippery stairs to the water were noted as a common issue.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as skiing or ice fishing are mentioned in the source material.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Lake Russell, with the calm lake environment being ideal for these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to use on-site firewood to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include occasional bear sightings, rotting railroad ties at some sites, and slippery stairs at the beach area. User reviews note trash and debris at certain sites.
Active alertsBathroom near site #25 has been decommissioned. Some roads may be locked periodically by the National Forest Service.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Habersham Medical Center (~10 miles, Cornelia, GA); ranger station contact: (706) 754-6221.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 01, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details regarding trash and recycling facilities are mentioned in the authoritative content. However, one user review noted issues with trash, stating, 'Lots of trash around: wrappers, debris, broken glass, beer cans, and bottles.'
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to 100-acre Lake Russell with a swimming beach, boating ramp, and fishing dock.
Common complaintsCommon issues include closed restrooms, maintenance backlogs (e.g., rotting stairs and railroad ties), and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours and smoking rules.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence. Hosts Sabrina and Rhonda specifically received positive mentions for their professionalism and helpfulness.
Campground Map
3059 Lake Russell Road
Driving directionsTake Ga 365/U.S. 23 North from Gainesville past Cornelia to Hwy 197. Turn right for approximately 3 miles until dead-end. Right on Dicks Hill Parkway for approx. 3/4 mile. Turn left onto the paved Lake Russell Road.
The roads leading to Lake Russell Recreation Area are paved and accessible year-round; however, some user reviews highlight narrow roads that may pose challenges for larger rigs.Nearby places
Cornelia, GA (~10 miles, ~20 minutes)
Helen, GA (~23 miles, ~35 minutes)
Gainesville, GA (~34 miles, ~45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest major grocery store is Ingles (~15 minutes away in Cornelia, GA)
Walmart is slightly farther but still accessible.
Camper Reviews
4.4
78 reviews
Lake Russell Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Russell Recreation Area are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.24 for campground-related experiences. Campers frequently praise the natural beauty, cleanliness, and the quiet, serene atmosphere. However, some concerns are raised about maintenance, trail markings, and the closure of certain restroom facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include clean facilities ('Bathrooms were clean and well-maintained'), friendly hosts ('Camp hosts were excellent'), and the variety of outdoor activities ('Great hiking,...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the decommissioning of certain restroom facilities, trail maintenance issues, and trash left by previous visitors. One user mentioned, 'The stairs at my site were rotten,...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend selecting campsites based on desired privacy, as some sites are more secluded than others. Bringing extra trash bags and avoiding areas with closed restrooms are also common...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight the lake’s cool mountain air and pleasant swimming conditions. Fall reviews emphasize the scenic beauty and hiking opportunities, while winter reviews are sparse due to...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Great for beginner paddlers and very peaceful.' - Paul C
'The bathrooms and showers were well-maintained.' - Michael L
'The hiking was wonderful, even the rain didn’t ruin the trip.' - Javier B
'The...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for specific campsites provide valuable insights. For example, Campsite 39 is noted for its good location and cleanliness, while Campsite 25 is closer to bathroom facilities. Campsite 32 is...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews are limited, but paved loops and proximity to restroom facilities are noted as positive features for individuals with mobility concerns.
Based on 78 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific mentions of pet policies or pet-related reviews in the source materials.
Based on 78 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025