If you find yourself cruising near Allatoona Lake and that familiar need to empty the tanks arises, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Sweetwater Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Canton, is one of those spots that feels like a destination in itself. It's not just a place to dump; it's a scenic, waterfront oasis that also happens to have a reliable and affordable dump station. Situated on a quiet cove yet conveniently located only about five miles from I-575, it’s the perfect waypoint for travelers bouncing between the hustle of Atlanta and the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With nearly 270 miles of shoreline to explore right at your doorstep, this isn't just a maintenance stop. It's a place that invites you to slow down, stay a while, and truly enjoy the journey.
The Canton and Allatoona Lake area is a magnet for RVers, and for good reason. The historic downtown of Canton is charming and walkable, with great farm-to-table restaurants and lovely trails along the Etowah River. It's a perfect place to spend an afternoon. The main attraction, of course, is Allatoona Lake. This 12,000-acre body of water is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers flock here to chase crappie and spotted bass, while kayakers and paddleboarders love to glide across the glassy water in the early mornings. There’s something for everyone in the family, from visiting the beautiful Gibbs Gardens to catching a minor-league baseball game in nearby Woodstock. It’s a region that blends outdoor adventure with small-town charm, making it a fantastic place to base your travels for a few days.
Using a dump station at a Corps of Engineers campground like Sweetwater has a distinct character. These parks are known for their natural settings, well-maintained facilities, and strict adherence to quiet hours, which creates a peaceful and respectful atmosphere. You'll enter through a gated booth where a friendly campground host will greet you and sell you a day pass if you're not staying overnight. The loop roads are paved, but they can have some tight turns and wind through the hilly terrain, so it’s always a good idea to unhook your toad before you head down to the campsites. The dump station is centrally located, usually near the exit, making it easy to use on your way out. A little bit of planning helps; a right-hand turn on departure will usually put you in the perfect position for an easy re-entry onto GA-20. Be aware that these campgrounds are often seasonal, closing down for the winter months, so always check their official schedule online before you plan your visit.
When it comes to amenities, Sweetwater is exceptionally well-equipped for a public campground. At the dump station, you’ll find a non-potable rinse hose for your dirty work, and there are potable water taps located throughout the campground loops for filling your fresh tank. The park is very pet-friendly, and the paved shoreline trail is the perfect place for a long dog walk, just remember to keep your furry friend on a leash. One of the biggest advantages of a campground stop is the access to modern bathhouses with hot showers and coin-operated laundry machines. Being able to dump your tanks, do a load of laundry, and take a refreshing shower all in one stop is a trifecta of convenience for any road-weary traveler. You’ll also find numerous dumpsters and even recycling cages, which makes keeping your rig and the campground clean an easy task. Most campsites come with 30/50-amp electrical hookups, so if you decide to stay the night, you can get all your batteries charged up.
Of course, no place is perfect. You won't find on-site repair services or full hookup sites here. If you run into mechanical trouble, you’ll need to head to one of the RV shops in nearby Cartersville. There’s also no gas or propane available in the park, so you'll need to fill up your tanks at the Canton BP on Riverstone Parkway before you arrive. It’s always a good idea to double-check the amenity status before you go, as the Corps is constantly updating its facilities.
The value proposition at Sweetwater is simply outstanding. A day-use dump pass at a Corps park is typically very affordable, often in the $5 to $10 range, which is an absolute steal considering the beautiful waterfront setting. The price isn't always listed online, so a quick call to the gatehouse is recommended. Many budget-conscious travelers will book a basic electric site for one night, which usually costs around $24. This gives them a guaranteed spot, access to the beach and all the facilities, and then they can use the dump station on their way out the next morning. It's a fantastic way to get double the value for a minimal expense.
A few tips for a stress-free visit: download an offline map of the area, as cell service can sometimes be spotty in the campground. When you’re navigating the campground roads, be sure to remove your hitch stabilizers. Some of the campsites are carved into terraces and have abrupt angles that can be tricky. If you plan to use the swim beach, bring your own life jackets, as it’s unsupervised. Finally, if you want to stay here on a summer weekend, you need to book your site well in advance. These spots are popular and can sell out six months ahead of time.
In short, Sweetwater Campground offers incredible value for any RVer. The combination of stunning lakeside scenery, clean and modern facilities, and incredibly low costs is hard to beat. The minor inconveniences of not having on-site propane or repair services are easily outweighed by the peaceful atmosphere and convenient highway access. Whether you're just stopping for a quick tank flush and a picnic by the lake or staying for a few days, Sweetwater should definitely be on your Georgia itinerary.
1400 Fields Chapel Rd, Canton, GA 30114
(678) 721-6700
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232715