Most Lake Lanier campgrounds near Sugar Hill, Georgia welcome pets on leashes up to six feet long. The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounds much of the camping area at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet, with mixed pine and hardwood forests providing natural shade. Red clay soil conditions persist throughout the region, requiring good footwear during spring when rainfall averages 4-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline sites: Bald Ridge Creek Campground offers excellent lake access where campers can fish directly from their sites. "Stayed three times August-October with kayaks. Two times had nice lake proximity/view. Beach is nice for the kids," notes AR M. who appreciates the water accessibility.
Hike the peninsula trails: Old Federal Campground sits on a scenic peninsula with walking paths throughout. "Every site we've stayed at has been great. They vary in size, but most have easy access to the water. Bathrooms are well maintained as well," according to Julie B., who visits frequently despite occasionally "grumpy" staff.
Visit mountain attractions: Stone Mountain Park Campground provides a perfect base for exploring both nature and attractions. "There are tons of things to do from Golf, hiking, zoo, laser show, food and you can hike the mountain or take a ride to the top. There are bike trails and plenty of entertainment for all," explains Holly B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Fort Yargo State Park offers chances to observe native Georgia wildlife. "Deer roaming everywhere. A new check in station with a store that's really really nice. Mountain bike trails and hiking trails inside park," describes Todd L., who appreciates the park's peaceful setting.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Bolding Mill Campground receives high marks for its lake access. "Our site had a beautiful view of the water and awoke to sun on the water. Very few mosquitos and lovely weather. Long parking pad for RVs," reports Craig J., who found the campground peaceful even when full.
Clean facilities: Lake Lanier Islands Resort Shoal Creek Campground maintains excellent amenities. "This park is very new and super clean. The sites are all paved fairly large and level with most having great views of Lake Lanier. Bathrooms and showers are always clean," according to Jordan L.
Low underbrush: Many campsites feature minimal ground vegetation, which has practical benefits. "The campground is on a peninsula on lake lanier and offers nice views from some spots and access from other spots. There is low underbrush (read: less bugs) and a lot of wildlife to be seen (we saw lots of deer)," notes Tiffany B.
Walk-in sites for privacy: Fort Yargo State Park Campground offers secluded walk-in options. "If you're like me and appreciate a bit of privacy when camping, the walk-in campsites at Fort Yargo are the place to go. Just a short 1-2 minutes walk from your car and bathrooms, but you feel much more secluded," explains Amalia K.
What you should know
Strict alcohol policies: Shady Grove Campground enforces no-alcohol rules rigorously. "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here... Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets. We had a mandatory court appearance, turns out each ticket is $280.00. No warning," warns Rick B.
Vehicle entry fees: Margaritaville charges for park access beyond camping fees. "There is a one time $20 fee per vehicle to enter, pay at gate," advises Fanny D., who otherwise enjoyed the resort's amenities and drink cart service.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. "Then a large group checked in across from us that unloaded 2 loud Harley's and two small motorbikes, immediately turned the music up LOUD and road laps around the campground on the Harley's for hours," reports Kristy Gary B. about her Sawnee Campground experience.
Lake water conditions: Water clarity varies throughout the season. "Water is warm, a little muddy by shore but clear as you get further out. There are lots of boats zipping around the Lake so beware if you are kayaking or canoeing," advises Christy C. about Bald Ridge Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Duckett Mill Campground has family-friendly amenities, though some need updating. "Couldn't give it five stars because of the wonky dump station set up and the tiny, old playground," notes Imagine C., who otherwise enjoyed the waterfront location.
Beach swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming spots. "Easy to get too. Great location on Lake Lanier. The sites are very large and trees between most sites. Lots of water view sites... huge beach area," reports Liz H. about her experience at Duckett Mill.
Bicycle-friendly roads: Many campgrounds have paved lanes ideal for children learning to ride. "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," shares Rick B. about his experience at Bald Ridge Creek.
Pet swimming access: Most lake areas allow dogs to swim at designated spots. "Had places for our golden retrievers to access water easily for swimming," mentions Liz H., highlighting the pet-friendly water access at Duckett Mill Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Margaritaville RV Resort offers premium sites with excellent preparation. "We had a pave site full hookup pull thru with lake view. Very easy to get in and out, private and quiet, we had a picnic table, fire ring and bbq grill," describes Fanny D., who appreciated the resort amenities.
Turning space challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties for larger rigs. "After parking our 40ft 5th wheel, we realized where we needed to turn around was going to be tight... It was so tight that the 5th wheel was only 1 inch from hitting the cab and the axels on the RV were in a bind," warns Pam H. about her experience at Old Federal.
Dump station congestion: Plan departure timing to avoid Sunday morning lines. "Single dump station tends to line up on Sunday but I suppose that's part of the deal," notes AR M. about Bald Ridge Creek Campground.
Weather precautions: Spring rainfall affects site conditions for larger vehicles. "Trip taken Labor Day 2018... All the sites appear to be waterfront but ours, 87, kind of wasn't. But it was shady and pretty," reports Nicole B. about her stay at Shady Grove during rainy conditions.
