Sweetwater Creek State Park
00 review1750 Mt Vernon Rd, LITHIA SPRINGS, Georgia, 30122, United States
Sweetwater Creek State Park
$3.75 - $70.00 / 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
ParkPass required for all vehicles. Prices range from $5/day for 1-12 passenger vehicles to $70/day for 31+ passenger vehicles. Discounts for Georgia active duty military/veterans ($3.75/day). Annual ParkPasses range from $50 to $250.
About this campground
Just minutes from Atlanta's bustling downtown, Sweetwater Creek State Park offers an unexpected wilderness escape where ancient forests meet modern adventure. Here, winding trails lead past the haunting ruins of a Civil War-era mill, while the pristine 215-acre George Sparks Reservoir reflects towering hardwoods and provides a tranquil backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solace from city life.
Sweetwater Creek State Park features various camping options including tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. Primitive camping is not offered.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time among the moss-covered ruins of New Manchester Manufacturing Company, where brick walls and stone foundations tell silent stories of Georgia's textile heritage and Civil War devastation. These evocative remnants, destroyed during Sherman's March to the Sea, now serve as powerful reminders of the past. Join park rangers on interpretive hikes that bring history to life, revealing tales of the mill workers who once called this place home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that paint the park in ever-changing colors. Winter brings crisp mornings averaging 37-53°F, perfect for invigorating hikes through bare-branched forests. Spring awakens the landscape with comfortable 52-68°F days and blooming wildflowers, while autumn mirrors these ideal temperatures with spectacular foliage displays. Summer invites water activities with warm 70-88°F weather, though early morning adventures offer the most pleasant conditions.
ElevationNestled within Georgia's rolling Piedmont region, the park's gentle hills and moderate elevations create an accessible outdoor playground. The terrain offers just enough variation to keep trails interesting while remaining suitable for hikers of all skill levels, with scenic overlooks providing rewarding vistas without demanding mountainous climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds at every turn, from dramatic rocky bluffs that tower above churning creek waters to serene hardwood forests carpeted in native ferns. Spring brings explosions of pink and white as azaleas and magnolias bloom throughout the understory. Watch for curious chipmunks darting across trails, majestic Canada geese gliding across the reservoir, and the occasional black snake sunning on warm rocks—all part of the park's vibrant ecosystem.
Geological RegionThe park showcases the best of Georgia's Piedmont landscape, where ancient granite outcroppings meet cascading streams in a geological dance millions of years in the making. Rocky bluffs carved by Sweetwater Creek create dramatic vantage points, while surrounding hardwood forests thrive in the region's characteristic red clay soil. Native flora including lush ferns, stately magnolias, and vibrant azaleas flourish in this diverse terrain, creating a botanical wonderland that changes with each season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGate access requires a keypad code, which adds a sense of security. Some paths leading to campsites may be challenging. "The campsite was great, getting to it was the hard part," said a reviewer, noting an uphill walk to some sites.
Sites SizeSites accommodate tents, RVs, and yurts. Specific site sizes are not detailed but are described as clean and functional.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some tent sites are close together, as one reviewer noted, "The campsites were a little close together for me and my dad's tastes." Yurts, however, are described as quieter and more secluded.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent sites #1 and #2 recommended for less incline and easier access. Visitors should bring extra padding for hard ground and a wagon for transporting supplies to tent sites.
Best CampsitesTent campsite #01 is highly rated for its proximity to water and cleanliness. Yurt sites are praised for waterfront views and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
9:00 AM
Check-out
5:00 PM
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTent sites are located a short walk from parking areas and include water/electric hookups, picnic tables, fire pits, and grills. Yurts are set apart with waterfront views.
Open and Closed SeasonPark is open year-round but office hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. After-hours check-ins are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or visiting http://gastateparks.org/thingstoknow.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be walk-up/first-come-first-served, but the exact number and fill patterns are not specified.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled, but specific rules and deadlines for penalty-free cancellation are not detailed.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Sweetwater Creek State Park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, pedal boating, picnicking, geocaching, and ranger-led programs. The park is known for its 15 miles of hiking trails, historical sites like the New Manchester mill ruins, and opportunities for birding and wildlife observation.
Hiking
15 miles of hiking trails are available, ranging from wooded paths along the creek to trails leading to historic mill ruins. A user noted, "The trails looked safe," and another stated, "Trails are fun, especially with scenic views of the rapids."Fishing
The 215-acre George Sparks Reservoir is popular for fishing. Supplies are available at the bait shop. Only electric motors are allowed at the boat ramp.Boating
The park rents fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats during warmer months. Boating is popular, with options for guided programs.Wildlife viewing
Many visitors report abundant wildlife, including chipmunks, geese, and snakes. "Lots of wildlife including chipmunks, friendly geese, and even friendly snakes," said one reviewer.Cultural and Educational Programs
Park rangers lead informative hikes and interpretive programs covering the area's history, flora, and fauna.Winter Activities
The park does not officially list winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood can be purchased and delivered by host. Visitors advised to bring fire-starting tools due to challenges with burning logs.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky terrain, hard and gravelly ground at campsites, wildlife including snakes, and the occasional falling tree limbs in tent areas.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories are noted.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Lithia Springs, approximately 2 miles away. The park office can also assist with emergencies during office hours.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is not explicitly defined. Annual ParkPass suggests year-round visitation.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available on-site, ensuring cleanliness and waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the 215-acre George Sparks Reservoir, popular for fishing but no swimming allowed. Canoe and kayak rentals available seasonally.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from nearby roads, hard and uneven ground at tent sites, and occasional maintenance issues with yurts and bathrooms.
HostCampground host available to deliver firewood; described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
1750 Mt Vernon Rd, LITHIA SPRINGS, Georgia, 30122, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-20 exit #41 at Lee Road, follow the Sweetwater Creek State Park signs turn left onto Cedar Terrace Road. Go to Mount Vernon Road and turn right. Park entrance is on the left. Bait shop is straight across from Cedar Terrace Road.
The park is easily accessible from major roads, particularly I-20. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby places
Lithia Springs (approx. 2 miles), Atlanta (approx. 20 miles), Douglasville (approx. 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in nearby Lithia Springs, which is approximately 2 miles from the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sweetwater Creek State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Sweetwater Creek State Park receives mostly positive reviews, with many users praising the clean facilities, abundant wildlife, and range of activities. Some concerns include campsite proximity, uphill paths, and noise from nearby roads.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, well-maintained yurts, firewood delivery, scenic hiking trails, and friendly staff are frequently praised. "Bathrooms/showers are clean and heated," and "Lots of wildlife including...
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Common Concerns
Proximity of campsites, noise from nearby roads, uphill walks, and discomfort in yurts during summer due to lack of air conditioning are common complaints. "The campsites were a little close together...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a sleeping pad for tent sites as the ground is hard and gravelly. Opt for tent sites 1 or 2 for easier access. Carry bug spray for ants and mosquitoes.
Seasonal Insights
Summer can be uncomfortable in yurts due to heat, while fall and spring are preferred for cooler weather and better hiking conditions. Winter reviews mention the availability of heated yurts for a...
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Camper Quotes
"The yurt was reasonably priced and it was a great way to get away." "Bathrooms/showers are clean and heated." "Lots of wildlife including chipmunks, friendly geese, and even friendly snakes."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 01 is highlighted as "the best of the tent sites" due to its proximity to water. Yurts are frequently praised for their scenic location near the lake.
Accessibility Features
The gated campsite area provides a sense of security, but some paths to campsites can be challenging, especially uphill.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in yurts, which disappointed some users. "Only complaint is that it's not dog-friendly," noted one reviewer.
Last updated August 10, 2025