Lake Sidney Lanier encompasses 38,000 acres of water surface with 692 miles of shoreline just northeast of Atlanta. Campers can access over 20 boat ramps and 10 marinas around the lake, with water temperatures ranging from 72-80°F during summer months. The area's campgrounds provide varying levels of privacy, from lakefront sites with direct water access to wooded retreats offering more seclusion.
What to do
Fishing for striped bass: Bald Ridge Creek offers multiple fishing spots along the shoreline. "Stayed three times August-October with kayaks. Two times had nice lake proximity/view. Beach is nice for the kids," notes AR M.
Hiking options: Several trails circle portions of the lake, including those at Fort Yargo State Park. "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there's even a canoe trail! Campground is well maintained and bath houses are clean," shares Kevan R.
Wildlife viewing: The lake area hosts abundant deer populations that campers regularly encounter. "We tent camped for about a week, wildlife especially deer was abundant. Playground was close to site. Area was huge and well spaced between sites," reports Shea D.
Mountain climbing nearby: For those willing to travel slightly farther, Amicalola Falls offers challenging terrain. "Beautiful falls if you can get to the top. Moderate hike to the top of the falls," mentions Kayla B.
What campers like
Direct lake access: Many sites at Sawnee Campground sit right on the water. "You are able to reserve your specific campsite ahead of time. Lots of great lake views. Enjoy watching the fireworks during the 4th of July," explains Natalie A.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room between sites at many Lake Lanier campgrounds. "Very nice wooded campground on Lake Lanier, very spacious sites, many on the lake. Water and electric with a dump station," notes 5Dudes.
Clean facilities: The well-maintained bathhouses get frequent positive mentions. "The restroom and shower facilities were clean. Plenty of hot water," writes Kevin Z. about his experience.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Don Carter State Park provides numerous family amenities. "We love this camp ground! Its fairly new, probably under 12 years, and everything is so clean and well taken care of. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," Cameron G. notes.
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit alcohol while others permit it. "Nice campground. If you enjoy having a beer while camping don't come here. Beautiful day, beer in a solo cup playing cards with my wife at a picnic table. Ranger pulls up and gave us both tickets," warns Rick B.
Limited Wi-Fi connectivity: Cell service varies by location and carrier. "No Wi-Fi so we are using hotspots on our cells. We have Verizon and showing 2 bar LTE," reports Darrel W.
Site selection matters: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "We are at spot 97 and was suppose to get 44. The host at the front office gave us a different spot that would be easier access to our 40ft 5th wheel," explains Darrel W.
Seasonal considerations: Water temperatures are most comfortable from late spring through early fall. "We paid 30 a night! Nice and quiet too," notes Aaron S. about visiting River Forks Park during a less busy time.
Tips for camping with families
Look for waterfront activities: Beaches and swimming areas provide entertainment for children. "Nice to find a RV winter themed vacation spot," notes Alyson about Margaritaville, which offers family-focused amenities year-round.
Ask about playgrounds: Many campgrounds feature play equipment. "There is a nice playground that is walking distance from our favorite camp sites that the kids really love," shares Chris H.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: Sites closer to facilities make nighttime trips easier with small children. "Our site was a tad bit small for our camper, large campers like motorhomes or fifth-wheels will not fit. Our campsite backed up to one of the hiking trails and our little guy loved it," reports Cameron G.
Watch for steep terrain: Some sites have challenging access points to the water. "Our site was one of the few tent camping sites where you could pull up however the site itself was sloped and difficult to get the kids up and down," warns Shea D.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Many Lake Lanier sites require leveling equipment. "Only reason for the 4 stars is our site was not level, took some work to level our rig. Also our site needed a little TLC," shares Timothy B.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at sites. "No sewer but the park does have a dump station. Many water sites," explains Wendy G.
Reserve ahead for waterfront spots: The most desirable RV sites book quickly, especially during peak season. "The campground is treed and many sites have nice shade. Sites 7-12 in Loop 1 are very nice with lake views and access," advises Nancy W.
Monitor site dimensions: Length restrictions can be strict at some campgrounds. "Site 32 - Nice level site. Plenty of room for us. Back in is not straight so it takes a little bit of maneuvering (that maybe why it was one of the last few sites available a week out)," notes Kevin Z.
