Panola Mountain State Park
00 review2620 HWY 155, SW, STOCKBRIDGE, Georgia, 30281, United States
Panola Mountain 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
Daily ParkPass fees range from $5 per day for 1-12 passenger vehicles to $70 per day for 31+ passenger vehicles. Georgia active duty military/veterans receive discounted rates ($3.75 per day). Annual passes are available, ranging from $37.50 to $250 depending on vehicle size.
About this campground
Just 18 miles from Atlanta's bustling cityscape lies a natural sanctuary where ancient granite peaks through emerald forests. Panola Mountain State Park beckons adventurers with miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking and biking, exceptional birding opportunities, and fascinating ranger-led expeditions to explore one of Georgia's most pristine granite outcrops. This protected ecosystem serves as both playground and classroom, where visitors discover rare plants and wildlife thriving on weathered stone that has stood sentinel for millions of years.
The park features primitive campsites accessible only by hiking. It caters to campers seeking a minimalistic experience.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of Native Americans who called this land home for thousands of years. The park's crown jewel—its magnificent granite outcrop—remains virtually unchanged from when indigenous peoples first gazed upon its weathered face. This careful preservation allows modern visitors to experience the same awe-inspiring landscape that has captivated humans throughout history, offering a rare glimpse into Georgia's pre-colonial natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that transform this granite wonderland throughout the year. Winter brings crisp mornings averaging 38°F, perfect for invigorating hikes without summer's humidity. As spring arrives, wildflowers paint the forest floor in vibrant hues while temperatures climb to comfortable levels. Summer peaks at a warm 88°F, ideal for early morning adventures and shaded forest exploration. Autumn steals the show with spectacular foliage displays as hardwoods burst into fiery reds and golds against the silver-gray granite backdrop.
ElevationThe park's dramatic granite outcrop creates a natural climbing experience, rising majestically above the surrounding forest floor. This ancient dome of exposed bedrock provides varying elevations throughout the park, offering both gentle slopes for casual walkers and more challenging terrain for those seeking elevated vistas of the Piedmont landscape stretching to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a 100-acre granite monadnock that harbors one of the Southeast's most extraordinary ecosystems. This exposed bedrock creates a unique habitat where rare and endemic plants cling to life in shallow soil pockets, while specialized wildlife has adapted to this distinctive environment. Beyond the outcrop, dense forests shelter winding creeks and peaceful lakes, creating a diverse tapestry of habitats that support everything from delicate wildflowers to soaring hawks.
Geological RegionNestled in Georgia's rolling Piedmont region, Panola Mountain showcases a geological masterpiece millions of years in the making. This granite outcrop, formed deep within the Earth's crust and gradually exposed through eons of erosion, represents one of the finest examples of a Piedmont monadnock. The pristine ecosystem that has evolved atop this ancient stone offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the fascinating interplay between geology and biology in one of the Southeast's most carefully protected natural areas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or reviews addressing accessibility are provided.
Sites SizeReviews mention primitive campsites with basic facilities; no specifics on site sizes.
Sites PrivacyPrimitive campsites are reviewed as not crowded, and some reviewers note a serene environment.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Campsites #1 and #2 for group camping and access to the lakeside view. Pack light due to the hike required to access sites.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest Campsites #1 and #2 are ideal for groups and offer lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not provided.
Check-out
Check-out times are not provided.
Stay Limit
Overnight guests pay one ParkPass fee for the duration of their stay. Specific duration limits are not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Overnight guests are permitted
- exact numbers per site are unclear.
Groups
No designated group sites are mentioned in the data.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPrimitive campsites are dispersed near a large pond and require a hike of 3/4 mile to 1.5 miles from parking areas.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round; specific seasonal closures are not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via call (1-800-864-7275) and the Georgia State Parks website (http://gastateparks.org/thingstoknow).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not clearly stated; user reviews emphasize advanced reservations and ranger-led programs.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled; specific penalties or deadlines are not outlined.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Panola Mountain State Park is a recreational haven with a wide range of outdoor activities, including archery, biking, hiking, fishing, birding, and more. The park also offers unique activities like geocaching, orienteering, and tree climbing. Guided hikes are available, showcasing the park's rare ecosystems.
Hiking
The park boasts 36 miles of hiking trails, including paved and forested trails. Ranger-led hikes require reservations and explore rare ecosystems.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the park's two lakes, although specific details about types of fish are not mentioned.Biking
Paved trails are available for biking and other activities such as rollerblading and jogging. Bike rentals are offered at the welcome center.Boating
Boat rentals are available, but further details about boating facilities or types of boats allowed are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes birding programs and opportunities to explore a pristine granite outcrop with rare plants and animals.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive programs and educational activities such as bird banding stations and tree-climbing programs.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; user reviews mention availability of wood supplied by the park.
- Quiet hours are not specifically mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, hiking terrain, and parking far from campsites (up to 1.5 miles).
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
The closest hospital and police services can be found in Stockbridge, Georgia. On-site, the Ranger Station provides emergency assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesExact peak season dates are not provided; user reviews suggest spring and summer are popular.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash or recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes two lakes, which are close to the campsites and popular among visitors.
Common complaintsVisitors frequently highlight the distance between parking and campsites, which requires a 3/4 to 1.5-mile hike. Noise from nearby highways and the airport is mentioned in some reviews.
HostRangers and park staff are described as helpful and knowledgeable. Guided hikes and educational programs are led by rangers.
Campground Map
2620 HWY 155, SW, STOCKBRIDGE, Georgia, 30281, United States
Driving directionsLocated 18 miles southeast of Atlanta on Georgia Highway 155 via I-20, exit #68.
Accessible via major highways, paved roads, and I-20. Road access is straightforward and suitable for vehicles of all types.Nearby places
Atlanta (18 miles, ~30 minutes), Stockbridge (Nearby, minimal travel time).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies such as groceries and fuel can be found in the city of Stockbridge. The park itself has a gift shop for minor essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Panola Mountain State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Panola Mountain State Park are overwhelmingly positive, praising its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and variety of activities. Some reviewers highlight its challenging walk-in access to the primitive campsites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include beautiful views, excellent hiking opportunities, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. Visitors also appreciate the peaceful, uncrowded environment.
Common Concerns
Some reviewers expressed concerns about the distance from parking to campsites, requiring a hike as long as 1.5 miles. Noise from the nearby airport and highway was also noted by one reviewer.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Pack light to accommodate the hike to campsites. Campsites 1 and 2 are recommended for groups. Utilize the free parking pass available from local libraries.
Seasonal Insights
Visitors highlight blooms during spring and colorful foliage in fall. Summer receives positive remarks for guided hikes and ranger programs, while some reviews note challenges with heat or high...
Show more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Wow…what a great state park to visit! Enjoyed exploring Panola Mountain in Stockbridge, Georgia.' - Debbie Anderson. 2. 'Camping here is nice but the walk to the campground is like WOW 😯.' -...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #2 is specifically reviewed as being great and located by a pond with a fire pit and picnic table. It is approximately 1.5 miles from the parking lot.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility for individuals with disabilities are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campsite. Reviews mention dogs enjoying the environment, indicating a pet-friendly policy.
Last updated August 10, 2025