Red Top Mountain State Park Georgia: 1st Time Visitor Guide

Red Top Mountain State Park offers a scenic retreat steeped in Civil War history, lush woodlands, and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for first-time visitors looking to blend outdoor adventure with leisurely relaxation, this guide will walk you through everything you need, from logistics to top activities, for an unforgettable visit.

Overview

Location: Bartow County, Georgia, roughly 30 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta.
Size: 1,776 acres, including multiple peninsulas offering water access.

Unique Features:

Situated on a peninsula of Lake Allatoona, for watersports and shoreline exploration.
Rich Civil War history, including the Red Top Mountain Battlefield.
Mixed pine and hardwood forests, with abundant wildlife.

Photos

How to Get There

From Atlanta: Take I‑75 N to Exit 279, then head west on GA‑20/Wyne Road.
From Cartersville: Take GA‑20 E toward Emerson; follow signs to the park entrance.
GPS Coordinates: 34.1168° N, 84.7177° W
Parking: Ample lots near the Visitor Center, boat ramp, and major trailheads; no fee beyond the daily park admission.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April–May): Comfortable temperatures (60s–70s°F); wildflower blooms.
Fall (September–October): Stunning foliage along hiking routes; pleasant <75°F days.
Summer (June–August): Great for lake swimming and boating, though expect hotter (80s–90s°F) and more crowds.
Winter: Quieter, cooler hikes; less ideal for water activities.

10 Best Things to Do

The following list showcases the most popular options to check out in this park, but on top of that I highly recommend this Tripadvisor post on Red Top Mountain which showcases top visitor recommendations too:

Swim at the Beach: Sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing and cooling off.
Boat, Paddleboard, or Canoe: Launch from the marina/boat ramp into Lake Allatoona.
Picnic at Pavilion: Rentable and ideal for family meals.
Red Top Mountain Battlefield Tour: Self-guided history tour with interpretive signs.
Fishing: Bass, catfish, and crappie await along quiet coves and shorelines.
Mountain Biking Trails: Hilly routes like Red Top Ridge Trail.
Geocaching: Coordinates lead to hidden treasures throughout the park.
Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, raccoons, turtles, and birds of prey.
Guided Programs: Seasonal offerings like guided hikes, history talks, and kids’ activities.
Campfire Evenings: Gather around fire rings at campsites or shelters.

Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)

Lakeview Trail (1 mile, Beginner) – A gentle lakeside loop with interpretive signs, ideal for families or casual walkers.
Chickasaw Ridge Trail (3.5 miles, Easy-Moderate) – Offers wooded terrain and mild elevation changes with peaceful forest scenery.
Red Top Ridge Trail (5.3 miles, Moderate) – A popular route with dense hardwood forests, wildlife activity, and scenic views.
Woodland Trail with Spur Loop (7 miles, Moderate-Advanced) – A more remote trail with stream crossings, elevation changes, and fewer crowds.
Cedar Flat to Red Top Summit (10 miles, Advanced) – For experienced hikers seeking panoramic views, ridge lines, and challenging climbs.

Packing List

For the list below, if you don’t already have these you can get a majority of them on my Amazon gear store:

• Hiking shoes or boots
• Daypack with water bottle or hydration bladder
• Sunscreen, bug spray, hat & sunglasses
• Swimwear and towel (for water activities)
• Rain jacket (April–May and Sept–Oct: possible showers)
• Trail map or park brochure
• Snacking supplies; small trash bag
• Binoculars for wildlife
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
• Portable power bank (for phones/cameras)

Where to Stay

On‑site Camping: 50 RV/camper sites (with water & 30‑amp hookups), 10 walk‑in tent sites, lakeview group campsites.
Yurts: Unique glamping-style options (bring bedding!).

Nearby Lodging and hotels: Check nearby deals

Things to Know Before You Go

Park Entry Fee: Adults $5/day; seniors $2.50; parking included in camping fees.
Boat Launch: $5/day per boat.
Cell Service: Spotty in forested parts, download map/offline content.
Restrooms & Water: Flush toilets and potable water near Visitor Center, camping loops, & marina.
Pets: Leashed pets allowed on trails but not on swim beaches.
Safety: Ticks are present, check periodically and use repellent.
Leave No Trace: Pack out trash; follow campsite quiet hours after 10 pm.

Final Thoughts

With its blend of lakefront recreation, wooded scenery, and historic depth, Red Top Mountain State Park is a Georgia gem, just a short drive from the hustle of Atlanta. Whether you’re paddling across Lake Allatoona, exploring Civil War trails, or stargazing by your campfire, this park delivers charm and calm. With this guide in hand, your first visit will be as smooth as it is memorable.