Please note: Bear Creek Restaurant & Bar is temporarily closed. The rest of Bear Creek Marina — campground & RV hookups, boat storage, kayak & canoe rentals, and the boat launch — remains open. Call (770) 787-9621 for the latest reopening information. The seasonal hours listed below apply when the restaurant reopens.
The best camping near Covington, Georgia is less than 30 minutes away — and it comes with a full-service marina, a lakeside restaurant, and some of the most peaceful lake views in the state. Covington sits in Newton County, and just across the Jasper County line, Bear Creek Marina offers waterfront RV camping on the shores of Jackson Lake with water, sewer, and electric hookups for self-contained rigs. Whether you’re a Newton County local looking for a quick escape or coming in from the Atlanta metro corridor along I-20, this corner of Georgia delivers outdoor recreation that feels much farther from the city than it actually is.
If you would rather skip the tent altogether, the marina is opening a lakefront camper rental on Jackson Lake, about an hour southeast of Atlanta, and you can join the waitlist ahead of the first stays.
Here’s what you need to know about camping near Covington, Georgia — the best options, what each site offers, and why Bear Creek Marina continues to be the top pick for RV campers in this part of the state.
Why Camp Near Covington, Georgia?
Covington, Georgia is one of those small cities that punches above its weight. Known as the “Hollywood of the South” for its prolific film and TV credits, it’s also surrounded by surprising natural beauty — rolling Piedmont hills, the Yellow River, and easy access to several lakes and state parks within a short drive. If you live in or near Covington, or if you’re passing through on I-20, the camping options in the surrounding counties offer a solid range of experiences depending on what you’re looking for.
For RV campers specifically, the best camping near Covington, Georgia means access to full hookups, a scenic setting, and something to do once you’re set up. That’s where Jackson Lake and Bear Creek Marina stand out.
Bear Creek Marina — The Best RV Campground Near Covington, Georgia
Bear Creek Marina on Jackson Lake is the closest full-service waterfront camping destination to Covington. Located at 60 Bear Creek Marina Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055, it’s roughly 20 miles from downtown Covington — about a 30-minute drive heading south toward Jackson Lake via GA-142 and Highway 36. For Covington residents, that’s a realistic same-day trip, and for weekend campers, it feels like a genuine getaway without the four-hour drive to the coast or the mountain traffic on I-575.
Jackson Lake itself is a 4,750-acre reservoir on the Ocmulgee River, formed in 1911 by the construction of Lloyd Shoals Dam by Georgia Power. It’s the kind of lake that rewards quiet recreation — fishing, paddling, swimming in designated areas, watching herons work the coves at dusk. Bear Creek Marina sits on its northern shoreline and serves as both a campground and an active marina, which means campers share the site with boaters, anglers, and families coming in for dinner at the restaurant.
What Campsite Amenities Does Bear Creek Marina Offer?
For anyone planning camping near Covington, Georgia, Bear Creek Marina’s campground is designed for self-contained RVs and motorhomes. Each site comes with water, sewer, and electric hookups, so you arrive, plug in, and you’re set for the duration of your stay. The campground is lakeside, meaning many sites have direct or near-direct water access — you’re not camping in a gravel lot behind a fence; you’re genuinely next to Jackson Lake.
- Full hookups: Water, sewer, and electric at each site
- Waterfront setting: Direct access to Jackson Lake shoreline
- Boat launch on-site: Bring your own vessel or rent a kayak or canoe from the marina
- Lakeside restaurant: The Bear Creek Restaurant is on-site but temporarily closed — call (770) 787-9621 to confirm before visiting; when open it serves Friday through Sunday
- Live music events: Live music nights at the marina through the season
- Fishing access: Jackson Lake has excellent bass, crappie, and catfish populations
It’s worth noting that this is a working marina campground, not a resort-style RV park. Campers bring self-contained rigs. Shower and pool amenities are not available on-site, though there is coin laundry — this is a lakeside campsite with hookups, not a full-amenity RV resort. What it does offer, in abundance, is atmosphere, activity, and some of the best freshwater lake access you’ll find within 30 minutes of Covington, Georgia.
To inquire about availability and current rates, call Bear Creek Marina directly at (770) 787-9621 or email contact@bearcreekmarina.com. You can also submit the campground interest form on the campground page.
What Can You Do at Bear Creek Marina During Your Stay?
The marina’s appeal for campers near Covington goes well beyond a place to park the RV. Here’s how most people spend their time at Bear Creek during a stay:
Fishing Jackson Lake
Jackson Lake is one of the more productive bass lakes in the Georgia Piedmont region. Largemouth bass are the primary target, but the lake also holds good populations of crappie, bream, catfish, and hybrid stripers. The coves near Bear Creek are especially productive early morning and at dusk. Bring your own gear and launch from the on-site boat ramp, or rent a kayak to reach the quieter coves. A valid Georgia fishing license is required and can be purchased online at georgiawildlife.com before your trip.
Kayak and Canoe Rentals on Jackson Lake
Bear Creek Marina rents kayaks and canoes directly from the marina. Kayaks are $25 for a half-day or $40 for a full day. Canoes rent for $45 per full day. Every rental includes a paddle and life jacket. It’s one of the easiest ways to explore Jackson Lake if you don’t have your own watercraft — paddle south toward the quieter coves, explore the shoreline, or drift out into open water and enjoy the quiet. Reserve your kayak or canoe online ahead of time, particularly on weekends.
Dinner at Bear Creek Restaurant
When you don’t feel like cooking at the campsite, the Bear Creek Restaurant is right on-site but temporarily closed. Call (770) 787-9621 to confirm before visiting; when open Friday through Sunday, its menu is classic American — hand-breaded chicken tenders, Angus beef burgers, wings in five sauce options, hushpuppies, sandwiches, and fresh salads. Full bar available. Dining room overlooks Jackson Lake. Being able to walk from the campsite to dinner is one of those small details that makes a camping trip feel like an actual vacation rather than an extended chore.
Other Camping Options Near Covington, Georgia
Bear Creek Marina is the standout choice for camping near Covington, Georgia when you want lakefront RV access, but there are a few other campgrounds within a reasonable drive that are worth knowing about:
Hard Labor Creek State Park
Located in Morgan County about 20 miles east of Covington near Rutledge, Hard Labor Creek State Park offers tent and RV camping, two lakes for swimming and fishing, an 18-hole golf course, equestrian trails, and hiking. It’s a full Georgia state park with bathhouses, a camp store, and modern facilities. If your group includes tent campers or people who need on-site shower access, Hard Labor Creek is the closest option of that type near Covington.
High Falls State Park
High Falls State Park in Monroe County is about 35 miles south of Covington and features a dramatic waterfall, lake fishing, miniature golf, and full-facility camping with electric hookups. A popular choice for families. The drive from Covington takes about 40 minutes via US-23. Worth the extra drive if you want to combine a waterfall hike with an overnight stay.
Indian Springs State Park
Indian Springs State Park in Butts County, about 45 miles southwest of Covington, is one of the oldest state parks in the United States. It features mineral spring water, lake access, cabins, and traditional camping. A bit farther from Covington than Bear Creek Marina but worth including if your group wants cabin options or is specifically drawn to the historic mineral spring.
Planning Tips for Camping Near Covington, Georgia
A few practical notes before you go:
- Book early for weekends: Bear Creek Marina’s campground fills quickly on summer and fall weekends. Contact the marina before you make the drive out.
- Self-contained rigs only: Bring everything you need for your stay. There are no on-site supply facilities at the campground.
- Gear for the lake: Even if you plan to rent a kayak, bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
- Georgia fishing license: Required for anyone 16 and older. Purchase at georgiawildlife.com or through the Georgia DNR GoOutdoorsGeorgia app.
- Restaurant hours: The Bear Creek Restaurant is temporarily closed — call (770) 787-9621 to confirm before visiting; when open it serves Friday through Sunday. If you’re arriving Thursday, bring dinner supplies or plan to stop on the drive in.
Frequently Asked Questions: Camping Near Covington, Georgia
How far is Bear Creek Marina from Covington, Georgia?
Bear Creek Marina is approximately 20 miles from downtown Covington, roughly a 30-minute drive heading south toward Jackson Lake via GA-142 and Highway 36. The address is 60 Bear Creek Marina Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055.
Is Bear Creek Marina the closest campground to Covington, Georgia with lake access?
Yes — for full-hookup lakefront RV camping near Covington, Georgia, Bear Creek Marina on Jackson Lake is the closest option. At about 20 miles and 30 minutes south of downtown Covington, it’s a realistic drive for a Newton County weekend getaway.
Does Bear Creek Marina have tent camping near Covington?
No — Bear Creek Marina’s campground is for self-contained RVs and motorhomes only. Tent camping is not available. For tent camping options near Covington, Georgia, the closest alternative is Hard Labor Creek State Park in Morgan County, about 20 miles east of Covington in Rutledge.
Can I fish from the campground at Bear Creek Marina?
Jackson Lake has excellent fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bream, and hybrid stripers, but fishing at Bear Creek is done from a boat or kayak on the lake rather than from the marina shoreline or docks. Use the on-site boat ramp to launch your own vessel. Kayak and canoe rentals are also available for campers who want to access quieter coves. A Georgia fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
What are the hookup options at Bear Creek Marina’s campground?
Each campsite at Bear Creek Marina includes water, sewer, and electric hookups for self-contained RVs and motorhomes. For current pricing and availability, call (770) 787-9621 or email contact@bearcreekmarina.com.
Ready to enjoy camping near Covington, Georgia at Bear Creek Marina? Contact us at (770) 787-9621 or contact@bearcreekmarina.com, or submit the campground inquiry form online. Find us at 60 Bear Creek Marina Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055 — about 30 minutes south of Covington toward Jackson Lake.
Working on the Rivian plant at Stanton Springs North? Bear Creek Marina is about 35 minutes from the site, with monthly full-hookup lots. See our guides to campground and RV hookups near the Rivian plant and long-term RV rentals near Stanton Springs.
