How much does camping cost at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Lake Russell Recreation Area range from $24-$48/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lake Russell Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Lake Russell Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lake Russell Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Lake Russell Recreation Area has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Lake Russell Recreation Area is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Yes, Lake Russell Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Lake Russell Recreation Area have?

Lake Russell Recreation Area has 42 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Pets are not allowed at Lake Russell Recreation Area. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Lake Russell Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Lake Russell Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Lake Russell Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Lake Russell Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Lake Russell Recreation Area: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.35

146 reviews

3059 Lake Russell Road

Summer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,099 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on USDA Forest Service, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,099 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on USDA Forest Service, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Russell Recreation Area

$24.00 - $48.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $48.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1-706-778-8427barbara.ramey@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

3059 Lake Russell Road

Lake Russell Recreation Area

3059 Lake Russell Road

Nearby places

Cornelia, GA (~10 miles, ~20 minutes)

Helen, GA (~23 miles, ~35 minutes)

Gainesville, GA (~34 miles, ~45 minutes)

Weather at Lake Russell Recreation Area

Current alerts(7)

14 day stay limit at all campsites. All parties must vacate the site to allow other visitors to enjoy camping on that site.
Campsites are available through reservation only. Check-out time is 12:01 pm and check-in time starts at 2:00 pm
Click here for more information on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Low Volume Generators may be used up to 4 hours per day between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Quiet hours are between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. If a generator is unreasonably disturbing to other campers you may be asked to turn it off.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Russell Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking combination of comfortable weather and peak southern Appalachian color — expect daytime highs around 55–70°F and crisp nights in the 35–50°F range in October. Leaf color usually peaks in mid-October through early November, making lakeside hikes and photography especially rewarding, while boating and shore fishing remain pleasant with fewer summer crowds. Weekends can be moderately busy, but weekday visits usually feel peaceful; be aware of local hunting seasons and, Peak months: October, November, May, September

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall called best season; peak leaf color mid-Oct and excellent lakeside hiking/photos.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Lake Russell Recreation Area

Lake Russell Recreation Area sits in the foothills of Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest near Mt. Airy, Georgia. This USDA Forest Service campground offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with access to hiking trails, fishing, and swimming. The facility includes showers, flush toilets, and a dump station, with camp hosts on-site during the seasonal operating period.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking combination of comfortable weather and peak southern Appalachian color — expect daytime highs around 55–70°F and crisp nights in the 35–50°F range in October. Leaf color usually peaks in mid-October through early November, making lakeside hikes and photography especially rewarding, while boating and shore fishing remain pleasant with fewer summer crowds. Weekends can be moderately busy, but weekday visits usually feel peaceful; be aware of local hunting seasons and, Peak months: October, November, May, September

Elevation1099 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe 100-acre lake reflects the surrounding southern Appalachian forest, creating what reviewers describe as a peaceful, scenic setting. Rhododendrons bloom along the hillsides, and sourwood trees add color in both spring and fall. The forest floor hides lady slippers and other native orchids. Wildlife includes turtles basking on logs and occasional black bear sightings. The lake's shoreline and forested loops create varied terrain, though some trail markings are inconsistent according to recent feedback.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or accommodations are available within the campground. Camping at Lake Russell Recreation Area is limited to tents and RVs, with no additional glamping or cabin options mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (website or app).

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.

Site 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.

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 SitesFor 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 a walk-in site with lake views and a quiet, scenic setting. Site 39 offers spaciousness and privacy. Sites 36 and 32 sit close to bathrooms and water spigots. Campers should note that privacy varies widely. Some sites provide excellent seclusion, while others sit close to neighbors. One reviewer mentioned spaces being 'tiny, with neighbors right on top of us,' so checking site maps before booking is worth the effort.

Need help booking Lake Russell Recreation Area?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Lake Russell Recreation Area offers a well-rounded set of amenities appealing to a diverse range of campers. Official information confirms that the campground has 42 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, though there are no electric or water hookups. Campsites come equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern hooks, with water available from hydrants distributed throughout the campground. Bathrooms feature flush toilets and showers, and additional facilities include a grass-covered beach with a swimming area, a picnic shelter, a dump station near Loop A, a boat launch, and a fishing dock. User reviews provide additional context about these amenities. One camper highlighted, 'There’s even a lake you can fish, swim, and kayak in.' Another praised the clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers, stating, 'The bath house was nice, kept clean during our stay.' However, some reviewers noted challenges, such as a bathroom near Campsite #25 that has been decommissioned and the need for better upkeep of certain structures like stairs at campsites.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Swimming

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & 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.'

Cell CoverageWhile no official details about cell phone service are available, user reviews note mixed experiences. One reviewer mentioned poor Verizon coverage, saying, 'Cell coverage (Verizon) was very poor,' cautioning campers to plan accordingly.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

146 reviews

Recommended

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 146 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 146 reviews.

Campsite 39Loved
For example, Campsite 39 is noted for its good location and cleanliness, while Campsite 25 is closer to bathroom facilities.
Campsite 32Issues noted
Campsite 32 is criticized for being small and crowded, but switching to Campsite 39 improved one camper’s experience.

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 146 reviews

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 146 reviews

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 146 reviews

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 146 reviews

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 146 reviews

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 146 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There are no specific mentions of pet policies or pet-related reviews in the source materials.

Based on 146 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a moderately priced lakeside base camp with showers and hiking trails in the southern Appalachian foothills.

Skip if

You need consistent facility maintenance or strict enforcement of quiet hours and campground rules.

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Panther Creek Recreation Area sits along the renowned Panther Creek Trail in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest near Turnerville. The campground offers RV sites for $4 per night and access to the area's main attraction: a waterfall trail through crystalline streams and hardwood forest. Recent hurricane damage has required restoration work, so check current trail conditions before visiting.