Doll Mountain Campground

For those of us in Georgia looking to unplug, unwind, and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the North Georgia mountains, Doll Mountain Campground on Carters Lake offers an exceptional experience. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), this campground is a true gem, celebrated by locals for its peaceful atmosphere, pristine facilities, and breathtaking views of one of Georgia's most beautiful lakes. If a tranquil escape, complete with the soothing sounds of nature and easy access to water adventures, sounds like your ideal getaway, then Doll Mountain Campground is a destination you'll want to explore.

Doll Mountain Campground is a highly-rated camping destination nestled on the southern side of the expansive and undeveloped Carters Lake, approximately three miles off Highway 382. This heavily wooded campground offers a diverse array of sites, catering to both RV enthusiasts and tent campers. With 65 campsites in total, including 39 with electric and water hookups, and 26 designated tent-only sites, it provides options for various camping styles. Additionally, there is a group camping area available for larger gatherings.

What consistently stands out in visitor reviews is the immaculate condition of the campground and its facilities. Campers frequently praise the cleanliness of the comfort stations, which boast impressive hot showers, a rarity in many campgrounds. The atmosphere at Doll Mountain is predominantly quiet and serene, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and a break from the hustle and bustle. While some sites offer a "glorified parking spot" feel, others provide spectacular lake views and more secluded settings, especially those nestled in the loops with wooden decks. The friendly and helpful staff are often highlighted as a significant positive, contributing to a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all visitors. This campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-April through late October, welcoming campers to enjoy the best of Georgia's spring, summer, and fall seasons.

Doll Mountain Campground is situated at 1362 Doll Mountain Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA. Its location places it firmly within the beautiful North Georgia Mountains, offering easy access to the clear waters of Carters Lake. While it provides a feeling of secluded wilderness, it's conveniently located about 20 miles from Ellijay, a charming North Georgia town known for its apple orchards and local shops, and approximately 70 miles north of Atlanta, making it a manageable drive for many Georgians.

To reach Doll Mountain Campground from Atlanta, travelers typically take I-75 North to Exit 293. From there, you'll follow Highway 411 North to Highway 136. Turn right onto Highway 136 and continue until you reach Highway 382. Turn left onto Highway 382, and you'll then look for signs to the campground; the access road is directly across from the volunteer fire station.

It's important to note that the roads leading into and within the campground, while paved, can be steep and winding due to the mountainous terrain. Reviewers mention that the drive in can be "a little steep, but definitely worth it." This may require careful navigation for larger RVs, though many report successful journeys with rigs up to 40 feet. The relatively close proximity to Ellijay means that campers can easily run into town for groceries, supplies, or to explore local attractions if needed, striking a good balance between natural immersion and convenience.

• Campsites: 65 individual campsites available, with 39 offering electric (30 & 50 amp) and water hookups for RVs and trailers, and 26 designated as tent-only sites. There is also a group camping area.
• Paved Parking Spurs: Most sites feature paved parking pads, facilitating easy setup for RVs and providing stable ground for vehicles.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grill grate, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available throughout the campground.
• Comfort Stations with Hot Showers: Two large, clean comfort stations with flush toilets and "amazing" hot showers are provided, greatly enhancing the camping experience.
• Laundry Facilities: Unlike many campgrounds, Doll Mountain offers laundry facilities on site, a significant convenience for longer stays.
• Dump Station: A camper dump station is available for RV waste disposal upon departure.
• Boat Ramp with Dock: A two-lane boat launching ramp with a dock provides convenient access to Carters Lake for boating and fishing.
• Children's Playground: A small playground is located within the campground, offering a dedicated space for children to play.
• Covered Seating Areas: The campground features covered seating areas, providing shaded spots for relaxation or gathering.
• Volunteer Host on Duty: Camp hosts are typically on duty, offering assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay for campers.

• Stunning Carters Lake Access & Views: Perched on a peninsula, many sites offer beautiful, albeit sometimes obstructed by trees, views of Carters Lake. Direct access to the lake via a boat ramp is a major draw for water enthusiasts.
• Immaculate Facilities: The cleanliness of the bathhouses, particularly the hot showers, is consistently praised by visitors, setting it apart from many other campgrounds.
• Peaceful and Quiet Environment: The campground is renowned for its serene atmosphere, with campers noting how quiet it remains, especially during designated quiet hours, allowing for true relaxation.
• Variety of Campsite Types: From spacious RV sites with hookups and concrete pads to secluded tent-only sites (some with wooden decks), the campground caters to diverse preferences.
• Boating and Fishing Paradise: Carters Lake is a deep, clear lake ideal for various water activities, including powerboating, kayaking, canoeing, and excellent fishing for species like bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish.
• Proximity to Hiking and Mountain Biking: While specific trails directly from the campground might be limited, the surrounding area offers abundant hiking and mountain biking opportunities, including parts of the Pinhoti Trail system and trails in nearby Ridgeway Park and Woodring Branch Recreation Area.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviewers consistently highlight the welcoming and supportive nature of the camp hosts and staff.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is dog-friendly, allowing furry family members to join the outdoor adventure.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campground, Doll Mountain Campground adheres to federal recreation pass programs that offer discounts to eligible individuals rather than running commercial promotions.

• America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass: This comprehensive pass series offers significant benefits for eligible campers:
  • Senior Pass: U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or over can purchase a lifetime or annual pass, which grants a 50% discount on standard camping fees (like those at Doll Mountain).
  • Access Pass: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities can obtain a free lifetime pass, also providing a 50% discount on camping fees.
  • Military Pass: Current U.S. military members, veterans, and Gold Star Families can obtain free annual passes that may offer benefits on camping fees.
  These passes must be presented upon arrival or indicated during the reservation process to ensure the discount is applied.
• Standard Fees: Campsites with hookups typically range from $24.00 to $28.00 per night, while tent-only sites without hookups are generally around $18.00 per night. While not a "promotion," these rates are often considered highly competitive for the quality of facilities and location provided.

Reservations are required for all sites and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov. It is always recommended to check Recreation.gov or contact the campground directly for the most current pricing and discount eligibility.

Address: 1362 Doll Mountain Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA

Phone for Campground Inquiries: (706) 276-4413

Mobile Phone: +1 706-276-4413 (This appears to be the same number as the main inquiry line.)

Online Reservations: Reservations for campsites are made through Recreation.gov. You can visit their website at www.recreation.gov or call their reservation line at 877-444-6777.

For general information regarding Carters Lake and Corps of Engineers facilities, you may also find resources on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Mobile District website.

For Georgians seeking an authentic and high-quality outdoor experience without venturing too far from home, Doll Mountain Campground is an exceptional choice. Its prime location on Carters Lake, nestled within the North Georgia mountains, makes it a highly accessible and desirable destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations for residents across the state.

What truly resonates with locals is the campground's commitment to providing a clean, quiet, and well-maintained environment. The "amazing" showers, immaculate facilities, and consistently positive feedback on the friendly staff create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere that many other campgrounds struggle to match. Whether you're a seasoned RVer appreciating the level concrete pads and hookups, or a tent camper seeking a peaceful spot under the stars, Doll Mountain offers quality camping for various preferences.

The abundance of recreational opportunities on Carters Lake – from fantastic fishing and diverse boating options to simply enjoying the serene views – provides endless entertainment for families and individuals alike. While some sites might require careful selection for families with small children due to slopes, the overall peaceful ambiance makes it perfect for relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Doll Mountain Campground truly embodies the best of Georgia's outdoor offerings, making it a beloved and frequently revisited spot for residents looking to create cherished memories in their own beautiful backyard.