A-frames in Lake Sidney Lanier with a private bathroom
Fish, paddle, golf, swim, and camp at one of America's favorite lakes.
- Lake Sidney Lanier
Popular camping styles for Lake Sidney Lanier
A-frames in Lake Sidney Lanier with a private bathroom guide
Overview
Set amid the wooded foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour’s drive from Atlanta, Lake Sidney Lanier—or simply, Lake Lanier—is one of Georgia’s largest and most popular lakes. With almost 700 miles of lakeshore, 38,000 acres of glittering blue waters, and dozens of parks, islands, and marinas, this lakeside vacationland affords endless ways to get on the water, from boating and kayaking to water-skiing and some of the state’s best bass fishing. Campers have options, too, with seven state campgrounds, RV parks, and private campgrounds dotted around the lake.
Where to go
North Shore
The wooded north shore of Lake Lanier is dotted with sandy beaches, lakeside parks, and islands. Head to Little Ridge Park to hook a bass in Buford Dam, cruise out to explore Three Sisters Island from Two Mile Creek Park, or cool off with a swim at Mary Alice Beach.
South Shore
The star attraction of Lake Lanier’s south shore is the Lanier Islands resort, home to the Margaritaville aqua park, sandy beaches, and a winter snow activity area. Check into a luxury lodge or villa, stay at the RV resort, or snag a lakeside campsite at Shoal Creek Campground.
Northwest Shore
The northernmost tip of Lake Lanier is the place to escape the crowds. Head to Chattahoochee or Chestatee Golf Clubs to play a game of golf by the lakeside, set out to cruise the lake from one of the marinas, or check into the campgrounds at Toto Creek, Bolding Mill, or Duckett Mill.
Northeast Shore
Lakeside Gainesville is the gateway to the northeastern waterways, which snake north to meet the Chattahoochee River. Hop over to Thompson Bridge Park to picnic by the lakefront or launch your boat, enjoy events like live concerts and Food Truck Fridays (March through October) at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, or explore the hiking trails at Don Carter State Park, which also has RV campsites and cabin rentals.
