Campsites around Lake Lanier and Cumming, Georgia sit at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet, offering moderate temperatures from spring through fall with summer highs in the 80s. The surrounding mixed pine and hardwood forests provide varied terrain for camping from lakeside beaches to wooded ridges. Rainfall averages 4-5 inches monthly during summer camping season with afternoon thunderstorms common.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Amicalola Falls State Park Camping features multiple hiking options with varied difficulty levels. A camper shared, "The hiking trails are amazing. The falls are beautiful. It was very busy parking was a bit of a challenge but worth it." Another visitor mentioned the wildlife viewing opportunities: "My teens loved it. They found all kinds of insects they had never seen even a Luna moth."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Lake access points at multiple campgrounds allow for non-motorized water activities. At River Forks Park & Campground, one reviewer noted, "We tent camped here...we were up on a steep hill, but it was beautiful! Deer were roaming thru the campsite... so many!" The campground provides convenient lake access with "plenty of access and views of Lake Lanier."
Fishing from your campsite: Many lakefront sites allow fishing without leaving your site. A reviewer at Sawnee Campground described it as having "wooded lots" that make it "the perfect relaxation spot for RV & Tent campers. With a lake view at almost every turn, the campsites are roomy and comfortable."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Stone Mountain Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. As one visitor explained, "We spent a weekend here in section O. It was a nice, spacious campsite with a nice picnic table and partial view of the lake even though we didn't have 'lake view' site."
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the forest cover at Shady Grove Campground, with a reviewer noting, "Very shaded sites with many being waterfront. We were in site 15, 14, and my parents used the Georgia glamping company in site 16." Another camper shared, "Shady Grove is a wonderful gem of a campground. It is owned and run by Forsyth County and is beautifully maintained."
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access. At Bald Ridge Creek, a camper reported, "Stayed three times August-October with kayaks. Two times had nice lake proximity/view. Beach is nice for the kids." Another camper mentioned, "Very pretty area. Right on the lake."
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit alcohol. A camper at Shady Grove shared, "When I met the ranger, I soon realized that he may have been taking his job too seriously... The ranger was telling us full grown adults that we had to throw away all of our alcohol." Check individual campground policies before bringing alcoholic beverages.
Reservation essentials: Most popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. At Don Carter State Park Campground, a camper advised, "If you are wanting to check out a rental of a canoe make sure you call in advance, these are only available during certain times."
Terrain considerations: Many campsites have sloped or uneven terrain. At River Forks, a reviewer noted, "Many sites have precarious/dangerous sloping driveways for RVs to get into. Newly installed sites are near completion but they make sites very close together."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Margaritaville, one camper reported, "My wife and I went here for a week back in June. I've been to many campgrounds in my day and I can say this one by far is the best. Clean campsites, fun amenities and great golf."
Beach areas for swimming: Designated swimming areas provide safer options for children. A visitor to Bald Ridge Creek noted, "Rangers were very nice, beach is cool, nice lake front sites. We had a fun time here, especially the kids. They loved riding their bikes around in this great family friendly campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see local fauna. At Sawnee Campground, a visitor mentioned, "We are at spot 97... The view is fantastic. We brought 2 dogs which they enjoyed the scenery. They are firm on making sure pet owners have their leash on and do not free roam. A lot of deer just walking around."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Many RVers recommend checking site maps carefully before booking. At Red Top Mountain State Park Campground, a camper warned, "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in."
Hookup configurations: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. At Don Carter, a reviewer noted, "Site 7 is separate from the others and has the whole point except there is a trail behind the site. No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking a glamping experience in Cumming, Georgia, several parks offer yurt accommodations. At Stone Mountain, one visitor shared, "The sites are color coded depending on size and there is even a yurt to rent. We went swimming and hiking. Close to Cartersville to enjoy great restaurants and shopping."
