Jackson Lake in Mansfield, Georgia, is one of the oldest reservoirs in the state — and one of the best-kept secrets for camping near Atlanta. Located approximately 1 hour southeast of the city in Jasper County, Jackson Lake offers 4,750 acres of water, scenic shoreline, and year-round outdoor recreation that draws campers, boaters, and families from across central Georgia.
Whether you are looking for full-hookup RV camping, tent camping under the pines, or a weekend lakeside getaway with a restaurant and live music steps from your campsite, this guide covers everything you need to know about camping on Jackson Lake, Georgia — with a focus on Bear Creek Marina, the lake’s premier access point since 1973.
Where Is Jackson Lake in Georgia?
Jackson Lake sits in Jasper County, Georgia, near the small town of Mansfield. It is about 60 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta, 20 minutes south of Covington, and within easy reach of Athens, Monticello, and Eatonton. The lake was created by Lloyd Shoals Dam on the Ocmulgee River and has been a central Georgia recreation destination for over a century.
Important: Jackson Lake, Georgia, is not the same as Jackson Lake in Wyoming or Lake James in North Carolina. This is a Georgia lake located squarely in the heart of the Piedmont region, managed by Georgia Power and supported by the Jackson Lake Association.
What Camping Options Are Available on Jackson Lake?
Jackson Lake offers several camping options, but the most convenient and well-equipped lakeside camping is at Bear Creek Marina & Restaurant in Mansfield, GA. Here is what campers can expect:
RV Camping with Full Hookups
Bear Creek Marina’s campground provides full electrical and water hookups for RV and camper parking. Sites accommodate both 30-amp and 50-amp connections, making the campground suitable for everything from small travel trailers to large Class A motorhomes. Every site offers scenic views of Jackson Lake, and the campground is steps from the marina’s restaurant, boat ramp, and kayak rental dock.
Tent Camping on Jackson Lake
For tent campers, Jackson Lake provides a more rustic experience while still offering access to modern amenities. Bear Creek Marina’s campground area accommodates tent setups with water access nearby. The combination of lakeside breezes, mature Georgia pines, and proximity to the restaurant bar makes it an appealing option for campers who want outdoor adventure without being completely off the grid.
What Makes Bear Creek Marina the Best Camping Base on Jackson Lake?
Founded in 1973 as Factory Shoals Marina, Bear Creek Marina has been the premier access point to Jackson Lake for over 50 years. What sets it apart from other camping spots in the area:
- Lakeside restaurant and bar — The Bear Creek Restaurant serves a gourmet menu featuring fresh catch, handcrafted burgers, artisan cocktails, and local brews. You can walk from your campsite to dinner on the water.
- Live music and entertainment — Regular live performances make weekend camping trips feel like a mini-festival.
- Boat launch and ramp access — The public boat ramp provides direct access to Jackson Lake for fishing, skiing, and cruising.
- Kayak rentals — Do not own a boat? Kayak rentals are available for exploring the lake’s coves and shoreline.
- Dry boat storage — Short-term and long-term boat storage is available for boats of all sizes.
- Private event hosting — The lakeside venue is available for weddings, reunions, and corporate events.
How Far Is Jackson Lake Camping from Atlanta?
Bear Creek Marina at Jackson Lake is approximately 60 miles — about 1 hour by car — southeast of downtown Atlanta via I-20 East. This makes it one of the closest lakeside camping destinations to Atlanta that offers full amenities including a restaurant, live music, and boat access. Other nearby cities and their approximate distances:
- Covington, GA: 20 minutes north
- Athens, GA: approximately 50 minutes northeast
- Monticello, GA: approximately 20 minutes south
- Eatonton, GA: approximately 30 minutes southeast
What Can You Do While Camping at Jackson Lake?
Jackson Lake is a 4,750-acre reservoir with excellent fishing (largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream are abundant), water sports, and wildlife viewing. From your campsite at Bear Creek Marina, a typical weekend might include:
- Morning kayak paddle through the coves near the marina
- Afternoon bass fishing from the boat ramp — Jackson Lake is well known for its largemouth bass population
- Sunset dinner at the Bear Creek Restaurant with a lake view
- Evening live music on the deck with craft cocktails
- Stargazing from your campsite with minimal light pollution
When Is the Best Time to Camp at Jackson Lake, Georgia?
Jackson Lake camping is best from late March through early November, with peak season running April through September. Georgia’s mild climate means the lake is usable well into the fall. Spring (March–May) offers comfortable temperatures in the 60s–80s and excellent fishing as bass move to shallow water for spawning. Summer (June–August) is peak boating and swimming season with temperatures typically in the upper 80s to low 90s. Fall (September–November) brings cooler evenings, fewer crowds, and some of the most scenic lakeside views as the Georgia hardwoods change color.
How Do You Book a Campsite at Bear Creek Marina?
To reserve an RV or camping spot at Bear Creek Marina on Jackson Lake, contact the marina directly at (770) 787-9621. The same phone number handles campground reservations, restaurant inquiries, boat storage, and kayak rentals. You can also visit the contact page to send a message or get directions to the marina at Mansfield, Georgia.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
