Payne Campground

For Georgia families and outdoor enthusiasts yearning for a refreshing escape, Payne Campground, nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Allatoona in Acworth, offers a compelling destination. This campground provides a classic camping experience, blending the tranquility of nature with convenient access to a beautiful lake. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under the canopy of mature trees or set up your RV near the water, Payne Campground aims to provide a memorable stay for all who visit.

Praised for its spacious sites and the natural beauty of its surroundings, Payne Campground invites visitors to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy the many recreational opportunities that Lake Allatoona provides. While some aspects of its maintenance have been noted by past visitors, the fundamental appeal of its location and the potential for a great family getaway remain strong, making it a valuable option for Georgians seeking a blend of relaxation and lakeside adventure.

Payne Campground is situated at 2495 Kellogg Creek Rd, Acworth, GA 30102, USA. This location places it directly on Lake Allatoona, one of Georgia's most popular recreational lakes. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for locals across the state. Being just 35 miles from Atlanta, it offers a relatively short drive for those living in the bustling metro area, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips without extensive travel. The campground is also easily reachable from other major towns and cities in North Georgia.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward, though it's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned the parking at the registration desk being a few feet away, rather than a drive-through. However, this minor point is quickly offset by the ease of reaching the beautiful natural setting. The proximity to Lake Allatoona means campers have direct access to water activities, enhancing the overall experience. The surrounding area also offers convenient access to local amenities in Acworth and nearby Woodstock, including restaurants and shops, ensuring that campers have everything they need within a reasonable distance. This blend of natural seclusion and urban convenience makes Payne Campground a highly accessible and attractive choice for Georgia residents.

Services Offered:

• 60 Campsites: A variety of sites including 45 single sites, 10 sites without water or electric, 2 sites with full sewer hookups, and 3 double sites.
• Electrical Hookups: 50 amp service available at many sites, along with water hookups.
• Charcoal Grills and Picnic Tables: Provided at each campsite for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Shower House: Facilities with functional showers and toilets, along with available toilet paper and small soap dispensers.
• Coin Laundry: Available on-site for guest convenience.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swim area in a quiet cove on Lake Allatoona.
• Dump Station: Available for RV waste disposal.
• Boat Ramp: Provides easy access to Lake Allatoona for boating enthusiasts.
• On-Site Park Attendants: Available at the gatehouse for check-ins and assistance.
• Pet-Friendly: Allows two pets per campsite, though with specific rules regarding leashing and prohibited areas (e.g., no pets on swimming beaches or inside buildings).

Features / Highlights:

• Lake Allatoona Access: A major draw, the campground sits directly on the banks of Lake Allatoona, providing easy access to the water for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Many sites offer direct views of or access to the lake.
• Varied Campsite Options: With 60 sites, Payne Campground offers a range of choices, from primitive sites without hookups to those with water and 50-amp electricity, and even a couple of full hookup sites, catering to different camping preferences.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Multiple reviews highlight this as a "great campground for families," suggesting an atmosphere conducive to group enjoyment and activities. The swim beach and playground facilities (as per external info) contribute to this appeal.
• Spacious and Wooded Sites: While some sites are closer, many are described as "big and spread out" and "wooded," offering a good balance of privacy and connection to nature. Lot 40, for example, is noted for being nicely tucked in with great lake access.
• Responsive Staff: Visitors commend the staff, particularly the front desk lady, for being "friendly and helpful." Issues, such as non-working electricity, have been addressed "promptly" when notified.
• Essential Amenities Provided: The campground offers fundamental amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and functional restrooms with showers, ensuring a basic level of comfort for campers.

Contact Information:

Address: 2495 Kellogg Creek Rd, Acworth, GA 30102, USA

Phone: (678) 721-6700 (This is also the number for the Allatoona Lake Project Management Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 678-721-6700

Reservations can typically be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

For us Georgians, Payne Campground offers a convenient and appealing option for experiencing the beauty of Lake Allatoona. It’s particularly suitable for families seeking an accessible lakeside retreat without venturing too far from home. The generous size and wooded nature of many campsites provide that much-needed sense of getting away from it all, while still offering the convenience of essential amenities like electrical hookups and clean restrooms.

While some past feedback points to areas for maintenance improvement, the core strengths of Payne Campground—its prime lake access, diverse site options, and the welcoming nature of its staff—make it a solid choice. It presents an opportunity to create lasting memories by the water, whether you're swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying a campfire under the stars. For a classic, family-focused camping trip with the allure of Lake Allatoona, Payne Campground is a local gem worth exploring for your next outdoor adventure in Georgia.

You can see a video featuring Payne Campground at Allatoona Lake (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-ZqlCAG7oQ).

Payne Campground

2495 Kellogg Creek Rd, Acworth, GA 30102, USA