Where to Park, Sleep, and Explore in the Peach State
Georgia might be known for peaches and southern charm, but if you’re living the van life, this state is packed with natural beauty, diverse terrain, and plenty of legal, safe spots to park your home on wheels. From Blue Ridge mountain views to swampy bayous and barrier islands, Georgia has it all—especially if you’re into variety, solitude, and adventure.
After plenty of miles and a few mosquito bites, here are my 10 favorite car camping and van life spots across Georgia, from the peaceful backroads to the popular parks.
1. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests (Dispersed Camping)
Region: North Georgia Mountains
Type: Free dispersed camping
Hands down, this is one of the best areas in the state for van lifers and boondockers. The forest is vast, with winding roads leading to tucked-away campsites along creeks and ridgelines.
🌲 Check out Dicks Creek Gap or West Armuchee Road—quiet, scenic, and van-accessible with basic clearance.
🛑 Always follow Leave No Trace principles and forest camping regulations.
2. Vogel State Park
Region: Near Blairsville (North Georgia)
Type: Developed campground
Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain, Vogel is a gem. It has van-accessible campsites with hookups, lake access, and proximity to the Appalachian Trail. Great for a reset day when you want bathrooms and hot showers.
🛶 Enjoy paddleboat rentals and hiking up to gorgeous waterfalls nearby.
3. Tallulah Gorge State Park
Region: Northeastern Georgia
Type: Paid campground
This dramatic canyon is one of Georgia’s most stunning natural wonders. The campground is peaceful, wooded, and great for vans or small rigs. You can hike the rim or get a permit to descend to the gorge floor.
⛰️ Epic views and starry nights—just book early during fall foliage season.
4. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (Stephen C. Foster State Park)
Region: South Georgia
Type: Primitive camping with amenities
For swamp lovers and wildlife watchers, this is a magical stop. Think gators, cypress trees, and misty mornings. The campground is quiet and remote—perfect for unplugging.
🐊 Bring bug spray and a camera—you’ll see plenty of creatures here.
5. Skidaway Island State Park
Region: Near Savannah
Type: Developed campground
If you want to explore Savannah but prefer a peaceful sleep spot, Skidaway Island is perfect. Shady campsites, Spanish moss, and lots of coastal trails make it a relaxing coastal retreat.
🌴 A short drive to downtown Savannah for food and history—but way more serene.
6. Fort Mountain State Park
Region: North Georgia (Cohutta Mountains)
Type: Developed campground
This park feels wild and remote, with lush mountain views and trails to ancient stone ruins. The sites are spacious and van-friendly, and the vibe is laid-back.
🧭 Great for hiking, biking, and quiet nights under the stars.
7. Jacks River Fields Campground
Region: Chattahoochee National Forest
Type: Primitive paid campground
For a mix of boondocking and structure, this small campground is a solid choice. It’s quiet, rustic, and near trails and river access, but still has vault toilets and picnic tables.
💧 Bring your own water and cash—no reservations here.
8. Don Carter State Park
Region: Lake Lanier, North Georgia
Type: Developed campground
Want lakefront living for a few nights? Don Carter offers that with showers, electric hookups, and kayak rentals. It’s cleaner and calmer than some other Lake Lanier parks.
🚐 Good cell signal and close to Gainesville if you need a supply run.
9. Tybee Island (Overnight Options)
Region: Coastal Georgia
Type: Paid campgrounds and urban overnight
While stealth camping is tough on the island, there are a few RV parks and campgrounds that accept vans. It’s worth a visit for the beach, lighthouse, and laid-back energy.
🌊 Try River’s End Campground for safe, legal overnight parking near the shore.
10. Walmart, Cracker Barrel & Truck Stops (Urban Overnight Options)
Region: Statewide
For quick overnights in cities like Atlanta, Augusta, or Macon, a few well-placed Walmarts or Pilot truck stops can be a lifesaver. Always ask for permission, stay respectful, and arrive late/leave early.
🛻 Some Cracker Barrels in smaller towns are especially friendly to vanlifers.
🔑 Georgia Van Life Tips:
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Black bears are common in North Georgia—store food properly when boondocking.
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Weather can flip fast—be prepared for pop-up storms, especially in summer.
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State parks are high quality and van-friendly, with good amenities for the price.
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Southern hospitality is real—locals are often curious and kind when you’re respectful.
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Fall is prime time—colorful leaves, fewer bugs, and great temps make October magical.
Whether you're craving mountaintop views or want to wake up beside a cypress swamp, Georgia offers surprisingly diverse options for van life. With a blend of wild spaces and charming towns, it’s one of the most underrated states for road living.
Got a secret Georgia spot I should check out? Drop a comment—I’m always chasing the next perfect overnight.
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