Richard B Russell State Park
00 review2650 RUSSELL STATE PARK DRIVE, ELBERTON, Georgia, 30635, United States
Richard B Russell State Park
$5.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees range from $5 per day for 1-12 passenger vehicles (ParkPass) to $250 annually for larger vehicles. Georgia active duty military/veterans receive discounted rates. Overnight guests pay only one ParkPass fee for their stay.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of its namesake lake, Richard B. Russell State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with an irresistible blend of waterfront adventures and peaceful forest retreats. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring scenic hiking trails, or perfecting your swing on the golf course, this lakeside haven offers something for every member of the family. Choose from thoughtfully positioned campsites or cozy cottages, many just steps from the water's edge, where the gentle lapping of waves provides nature's perfect soundtrack to your getaway.
The park offers options for tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Specific group camping details are not provided.
Historical SignificanceBeneath the tranquil waters of Lake Richard B. Russell lies a remarkable secret: Rucker's Bottom, an archaeological treasure that whispers tales of Paleo-Indian life from over 10,000 years ago. This submerged time capsule connects modern visitors to ancient peoples who once called this land home, adding a profound layer of historical depth to your camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full splendor of Georgia's changing seasons at Richard B. Russell, where crisp winter mornings hover around 40°F—perfect for fireside gatherings—and summer days warm to a pleasant 90°F, ideal for swimming and water sports. The climate shifts from refreshingly dry to comfortably humid throughout the year, while gentle, moderate rainfall keeps the landscape lush and green. Each season paints the park in new colors, from spring's vibrant blooms to autumn's golden canopy.
ElevationPerfectly positioned at a gentle elevation along the shores of Lake Richard B. Russell, the campground offers easy access to both waterfront activities and comfortable camping conditions, creating an ideal basecamp for your outdoor adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering hardwoods mingle with stately pines, creating a natural cathedral around the sparkling waters of Lake Richard B. Russell. The park's commitment to accessibility shines through in its thoughtfully designed trails, featuring innovative recycled tire mulch and smooth pea gravel surfaces that invite everyone to explore this scenic wonderland. Each turn reveals new vistas of forest and lake, painting an ever-changing portrait of Georgia's natural beauty.
Geological RegionDiscover the heart of Georgia's Region 2, where 26,650 acres of Lake Richard B. Russell create a vast aquatic playground surrounded by dense forests of hardwood and pine. Adventure awaits along trails that wind through this diverse ecosystem, leading explorers to fascinating historical landmarks like preserved steel-pin bridges—silent witnesses to the area's rich past. This unique geological tapestry offers endless opportunities for discovery and connection with the natural world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMost park facilities, including the swimming beach, are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious with a pea gravel base and railings around the edges. Some cabins and campsites have direct lake views.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some users noting seclusion while others describe sites as tightly packed. Site 13 provides easy lake access.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites closest to the lake (#13, #11) for better views. Larger rigs may find difficulty with smaller sites.
Best CampsitesSite #13 and #11 are noted for their proximity to the lake and easy access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 28 campsites spaced relatively close together with pea gravel bases and railings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via gastateparks.org or by calling 1-800-864-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not directly mentioned; however, user reviews suggest that some sites may be first-come-first-served.
Cancellation PolicyRules and regulations are posted at site offices and must be observed by all guests and visitors.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, disc golf, traditional golf, hiking, biking, and swimming. Seasonal amenities also include canoe and kayak rentals. Wildlife viewing and geocaching are other popular activities.
Hiking
Approximately 6 miles of well-marked trails with varying terrain are available. The Blackwell Bridge Trail features recycled tire mulch for a softer walk. However, some users reported cobwebs on less-used trails.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with many campers praising the lake for its opportunities. A fishing pier is available near the campsites, and users enjoyed fishing from docks as well.Swimming
The park features a lake swimming area with a beach, picnic tables, grills, and covered pavilions. The swimming area is seasonal.Biking
The park includes biking trails as part of its 6 miles of pathways. Trails are well-marked and well-maintained.Boating
Boating is widely enjoyed with boat ramps, docks, and rentals available. Canoe and kayak rentals are seasonal. Some users noted issues with wake zones near cabins.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is described as peaceful, with abundant sightings of local fauna. Ospreys nest on the old iron bridge, providing a highlight for bird enthusiasts.Beach activities
The beach area features picnic tables, grills, and concessions. It is a hub for family activities, with a bathhouse and food and drinks available.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the park is open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are popular, with rentals available seasonally.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies are mentioned; however, grills and fire pits are available at picnic sites.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include limited cellular service, fallen trees (as reported in cabins), and wildlife like cockroaches and spiders in cabins.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 and emergency services are located in Elberton, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesDates for peak season pricing are not specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Some reviewers mentioned active camp hosts who help maintain cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLake Richard B. Russell borders the camping area, offering boat docks, fishing piers, and swimming beaches.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor Wi-Fi connectivity, tight RV campsite spacing, cabin maintenance issues like cockroaches and malfunctioning fixtures, and neglect of certain park features.
HostCamp hosts are noted for being friendly and attentive, often driving around to check on guests.
Campground Map
2650 RUSSELL STATE PARK DRIVE, ELBERTON, Georgia, 30635, United States
Driving directionsFrom Elberton: Take Hwy 77 north to Ruckersville Road (approx. 2 miles). Turn Right onto Ruckersville Road. (Church will be on your left), proceed 8 miles to park entrance on right.
The park is accessible via paved roads leading directly to campsites. Roads are generally well-maintained and wheelchair-accessible; however, some curves are reported as tight for larger RVs.Nearby places
Elberton (approx. 10 miles), Athens (approx. 35 miles), Augusta (approx. 75 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery and supply store is Ingles in Elberton, approximately a 15-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Richard B Russell State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Richard B. Russell State Park receives mixed reviews. Positive comments highlight the park's beauty, cleanliness, and range of activities, while complaints focus on limited cell service, maintenance issues, and overcrowded sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the well-maintained trails, clean facilities, and family-friendly activities. Cabins with lake views and docks were particularly praised. The staff's friendliness and the park's...
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Common Concerns
Some users mentioned issues with cabin cleanliness, pests, and maintenance. Limited cell service and weak Wi-Fi connectivity were common concerns. Overcrowding and tightly packed campsites were noted...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own paper towels, quarters for laundry, and sticks for clearing trail cobwebs. Check tree conditions around cabins for safety.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention the high heat and crowded conditions, while fall and winter reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The trails are well-marked, but cobwebs on less-used paths were a challenge.' 2. 'Cabin 20 is very ugly, with pests inside.' 3. 'The staff is very friendly, and the park is a great retreat.' 4....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 is noted for its easy lake access, while site 11 is praised for its proximity to the lake. Cabins 7 and 17 offer accessible amenities, though 17 lacks a well-marked no-wake zone.
Accessibility Features
Most facilities, including the beach, are wheelchair accessible. Cabin 7 is highlighted for its accessibility features, making it suitable for disabled veterans.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but a pet fee of $50 applies for cabins. Reviews mention that the area is pet-friendly, with plenty of outdoor spaces suitable for dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025