Lake Sidney Lanier, GA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lake Sidney Lanier. Discover great camping spots near Lake Sidney Lanier, reviewed by campers like you.
$20 - $240 / night
"This site was a nice distance away from the RV focused campsites at the same location."
"If you love large wooded spots with great lake views and lots of deer to watch....this is your park. Located in a very nice part of Georgia with so many places to go and see."
$26 - $36 / night
"Our sites have all been lake-side and very large with a paved drive. There is hiking around the shore line and lots of ducks in the lake to feed (Shh!)"
"It was right on the lake with a beautiful view. It has a path that goes down to the lake. A lot of the sites are on the lake and most sites offer ample shade."
$20 - $36 / night
"Our site was walking distance to the bathhouse, playground and swimming."
"Grounds were great with easy access to the lake."
"There was a nice flat area to set up food, bonfire, chairs, games and to lounge around with family and the dogs. Bathrooms were nice and close to campground, within walking distance."
"Communication with the main number for the campground went through the Margaritaville Campground nearby. Separate direct lines to the camp office and security were provided after arrival."
$20 - $36 / night
"It was a little longer walk to the water and when a camper was next to us we couldn’t see the lake. We already have our reservations for 2025 in the site we wanted."
"Our site was near access to walk-in camping (which did not turn out to be a problem since we set up facing the water) and a long walk to the bathroom, which was reasonably clean with hot shower but no"
$26 - $36 / night
"Almost all the sites have view of lake and many have access to the lake for swimming or paddle boarding or boating. Nice breeze off the lake. Will be back many times."
"Great location on Lake Lanier. The sites are very large and trees between most sites. Lots of water view sites, some have easier lake access from your site than others for our kayaks."
$25 - $225 / night
"Situated at the far north end of Lake Lanier, this Georgia state park is awesome! One of the best things about it for RV/trailer camping is the huge distance between camp sites!"
"This Georgia State Park is in Gainesville on the Chattahoochee where it meets up with Lake Lanier. It was very easy to get to from the Atlanta area. "
"The bathrooms were close to the site. We had a great family time here!! Deer were roaming thru the campsite.. so many!! I loved the fresh Georgia air and the atmosphere was just so relaxing!!"
"Overall a nice and quite campground on Lake Lanier that’s not a COE campground. Easy to navigate and locate the sites. All have water views, picnic tables, fire pits, and grills."
$20 - $46 / night
"As for us we are avid hikers so we stuck to the trails. There are a few trails that interconnect so we hike for hours(which we loved). Although we did not camp we are definitely coming back to do so."
"On a peninsula this little gem on Lake Lanier, with wooded lots, is the perfect relaxation spot for RV & Tent campers."
"It's proximity to Atlanta can cause the area around the falls to fill up quick so the earlier or colder the better."
"If you're taking off on the AT, then you need to get walking. However, if you want a small taste of the AT and would like to camp out near the starting point, then this is a great place to be."
GuideLike some of the other privately managed Georgia state parks, our visit here was disappointing.
The issues started at the welcome center. The RV parking area was full of cars, even though plenty of regular parking spots were open. When we mentioned it to staff, the response was dismissive — one employee told us, “that’s above my paygrade.”
The restroom at the welcome center was also a low point. The toilets are stainless steel with no seats — the kind you’d expect to see in a jail — and designed so shallow that whether you sit or hover, you end up getting splashed. It’s an unpleasant and unsanitary setup.
The campground itself felt neglected, with rotting picnic tables and a general lack of upkeep. It’s also isolated from the rest of the park — there isn’t even a connector trail from the camping area to a single hiking trail, which makes it feel cut off from the very amenities most people come for. At $60 a night, you’d expect at least a basic map of the trails and amenities, but instead you’re told to snap a photo of a cardboard display. That felt like corner-cutting.
One memorable (and concerning) part of the stay was the bear activity. In September, several bears came through the campground, startling tent campers who had to retreat inside their cars for safety.
All in all, while the natural setting of Amicalola Falls is beautiful, the way the park is managed left the overall experience underwhelming and, at times, frustrating.
ScoutMy partner always said he loved going here as a kid, so we went. $10 a night was a bargain and I did not expect much. The site we picked was near the restrooms, which were very well kept. It was quiet, beautiful, and an absolute slice of heaven. We went swimming and exploring. It did not feel overcrowded or busy. We walked down the peninsula at night to stargaze surrounded by water. I didn't want to leave and go back to the real world.
TravelerVery nice area to camp saw multiple sites throughout the road. Weather got a little cooler at night but the stars were a beauty to see. managed to fit 3 tents and 2 hammocks at the campsite near 34°50'26.3"N 83°40'44.6"W Wood was a little wet as it had rained 2 days prior so might be worth bringing your own.
Also worth it if you're into astrophotography as all of tray mountain sits within the few dark areas within north Georgia.
Did not see any signs of large predators but did see lots of spent 12GA shells and other casings.
Scoutvery calm, safe place with large clean bathrooms
TravelerThe campsite was right next to the swimming beach so little to no privacy and very loud. Although I slept very well in my tent because Quiet hours were observed. It was nice waking up to view of Lake Allatoona. Lady at the gate was rude when checking in so make sure to “READ the sign!” Other than that bathrooms were clean and they have laundry and hot water showers. Will most likely be back!
ScoutI love that this was a tent only camping site (no RVs). The sites were a bit smaller than I would have liked but as it was just the 10 sites on the road, the kids could safely play in the road. The water was by the toilets at the entrance but easily walkable from the sites.
TravelerThis is by far my favorite place we’ve been off grid camping. It’s more Jeep friendly than full size vehicles, to get a spot down by the creek. But it is possible to get a full size 4*4 truck down the switch back.
GuideWe booked Friday through Sunday of Labor Day weekend. We arrived after hours on Friday, and our check-in packet was prepared and ready for us when we arrived. No problems checking in and getting hooked up.
The RV park is enormous, new and extremely well-kept. Our spot was next to the Etowah River and was one of the few that is on gravel and not concrete. The few gravel lots are among the quietest of this very busy place.
There are plenty of things to do for a family...lazy river pool, pickle ball, etc. There are kids, electric scooters, electric everything flying around the park morning to evening. It's not necessarily a problem so long as you know what to expect. This is a less quiet place than many others that we have stayed at.
Lots of investment in 5G WiFi towers, but WiFi is not terribly good. I opted to pull out my StarLink for a better, high bandwidth connection.
My wife and I travel with e-bikes, so we were glad that it was easy to get to southern Cartersville in about 3 miles and to the Cooper's Furnace Day Area also in about 3 miles.
Overall, and great place as long as you know you're signing up for a pretty active RV resort geared toward lots of family activity. Not particularly quiet. I'll come back... really enjoyed the cleanliness, order and adherence to strict rules.
ScoutSo peaceful and accommodated our 34” trailer and 2500
Camping near Lake Sidney Lanier, Georgia, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Lake Sidney Lanier, Georgia, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make camping reservations at Lake Lanier?
Most Lake Lanier campgrounds require reservations through Recreation.gov, where you can check availability and book sites up to six months in advance. Don Carter State Park Campground, located at the north end of Lake Lanier, can be reserved through the Georgia State Parks reservation system. For Buford Dam Park Shelters, you'll need to make arrangements directly with the park office. It's advisable to book early, especially for summer weekends and holidays when these popular campgrounds fill quickly.
Are there camping cabins available at Lake Lanier?
Yes, cabin accommodations are available at Lake Lanier. Duckett Mill offers cabin options for those who prefer more comfort while enjoying the lake. For a nearby alternative with cabin facilities, consider Nacoochee Adventures, which provides cabin camping in a remote setting not far from Helen, GA. Most cabins around Lake Lanier feature basic amenities like beds, electricity, and sometimes kitchenettes, with some offering lake views. Reservations for cabins should be made well in advance, especially during peak season.
What camping sites are available at Lake Lanier?
Lake Lanier offers several excellent campgrounds around its shoreline. Bolding Mill provides waterfront sites with lake views and good access to the water. Old Federal features boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with water and toilet facilities. Other options include Shady Grove Campground, Bald Ridge Creek, Shoal Creek, River Forks Park, Sawnee, and Duckett Mill. Most Lake Lanier campgrounds offer amenities like restrooms with showers, boat ramps, swimming areas, and picnic facilities, making them suitable for various camping styles from tent camping to RVs.
What amenities are available at Duckett Mill Park on Lake Lanier?
Duckett Mill Park offers comprehensive amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The campground features water hookups, clean toilet facilities, and shower houses. It's big-rig friendly with spacious sites that can accommodate larger RVs. The park provides boat-in, drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access options, making it versatile for different camping styles. Many sites offer direct lake access with swimming areas nearby. The campground is well-maintained with picnic tables, fire rings, and some sites featuring beautiful views of Lake Lanier. Reservations are recommended as this is a popular destination, especially during summer months.
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