Red Top Mountain State Park

Named for the iron-rich red soil that once drew miners to these hills, Red Top Mountain State Park sits on a peninsula jutting into Lake Allatoona in Bartow County, Georgia. The park’s 1,776 acres offer a striking combination of Piedmont forest and lakefront access just 30 minutes north of Atlanta, making it one of the most popular state parks in the Southeast.

The real draw here is Lake Allatoona. With over 12,000 acres of water and 270 miles of shoreline, the lake anchors nearly every activity in the park. A sandy beach opens for swimming in summer, and the park’s boat ramp provides direct access for fishing, kayaking, and pontoon cruises. Anglers target spotted bass, striped bass, and crappie throughout the year.

On land, roughly 15 miles of trails wind through hardwood forest and along the lakeshore. The Homestead Trail loops through the remains of a 19th-century mining community, where stone foundations and old roadbeds tell the story of the area’s iron ore past. The Lakeside Trail delivers some of the best waterfront views in north Georgia.

The park’s campground includes tent and RV sites, many with lake views, plus yurts and cottages for those who prefer a roof overhead.

Spring wildflower season and fall color are the prime times to visit, though summer weekends pack the beach and boat ramp. Midweek visits reward you with quieter trails and easier campsite availability. With a 4.7-star rating across thousands of reviews, Red Top consistently delivers.

Explore Nearby

• Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forest — National Forest in Georgia
• Appalachian Byway — Scenic Byway in Ohio
• Talladega Scenic Drive — Scenic Byway in Alabama
• Nantahala National Forest — National Forest in North Carolina