Bald Ridge Creek Campground

Plan your adventure at Bald Ridge Creek Campground on Lake Sidney Lanier. Learn how to get there (near Atlanta, GA), fees, facilities, dog policy, hotels. Bald Ridge Creek Campground: Lake Lanier Camping Guide ald Ridge Creek Campground lies on Lake Sidney Lanier in Georgia, a popular reservoir in the Blue Ridge foothills. It’s famous for its “aqua-blue” water and scenic views. The lake has about 38,000 surface acres of water and 692 miles of shoreline. Every year over 11 million visitors come to Lake Lanier for fishing, boating and swimming. Bald Ridge Creek offers 82 spacious campsites by the lakeshore. It’s great for tents, RVs (up to 50‑amp hookups), and even big rigs (up to 109 ft of vehicle length). This guide covers location and directions, fees, facilities, nearby hotels, restaurants, dog rules, and tips for your stay. Tip: Book your campsite early, especially for summer weekends. Bald Ridge Creek is very popular and often fills up months in advance. Location & Directions Bald Ridge Creek Campground is in Cumming, GA (Forsyth County), at 4100 Bald Ridge Park Road. The nearest big airport is Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta (ATL), about 45 miles (≈50 minutes) south. From Atlanta or the airport, take I-75 N to GA‑400 N, then Exit 16 (Pilgrim Mill Road). Follow Pilgrim Mill Road → Sinclair Shoals Road → Bald Ridge Road – signage leads you into the campground. The park entrance has a gatehouse (open daily) where you check in. There is free parking for campers. Tip: Arrive during daylight if you can. The park gates lock at 10:30 PM each night, and the road into the campground is easier to navigate in daylight. Campground Facilities & Amenities Bald Ridge Creek Campground is well-equipped for campers. Each campsite includes: Other Facilities Bald Ridge Creek is co-managed by Forsyth County and the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps welcomes you to Lake Lanier and notes the park’s popularity. Alcohol is not allowed anywhere in the park (the rules say “sober fun is encouraged”). Check-in is 3 PM; check-out by 1 PM. Recreation & Nearby Attractions Bald Ridge Creek is a paradise for water lovers. Virtually all campsites are on or near the waterfront. Fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming are easy to enjoy from here. The campground even has a warm sandy beach for swimming, and many campers launch paddleboards and kayaks at dawn. If you like fishing, Lake Lanier has bass, catfish, crappie and more – bring your fishing license! The park is also near Sawnee Mountain Preserve (about 8 miles west), which has several easy hiking trails and a kid-friendly nature center. In town, the City of Cumming (5 min away) offers shops, groceries, a visitor center, and even a fairground that hosts events. For more adventure, explore other parts of Lake Lanier: there are marinas, picnic areas and trails around the lake. Tip: Pack a cooler of snacks for the day. A sunset picnic on the Bald Ridge beach is special – you might catch a sky full of stars (Lake Lanier has dark skies away from city lights). Camping Fees & Passes There is no day-use fee because only overnight campers are allowed. You pay only for the night’s you camp. Typical nightly rates range roughly $26–$36 per night (depending on site type and season). If you have an America the Beautiful pass (Senior Pass, Access Pass, Military Pass, etc.), it’s honored here for a discount. (Forsyth County issues the passes for corps parks now.) Book your stay online via the Forsyth County reservation site or Recreation.gov. Be sure to have your pass or ID ready at check-in. Reminder: the gate closes to vehicles at 10:30 PM every night. Nearby Hotels & Motels If you prefer a motel or hotel instead of camping, there are several in Cumming (just a few miles away): All of these book up on busy weekends, so reserve early. Cumming also has some lakeside resorts (Lake Lanier Islands) if you want fancy amenities, but those are a 15–20 min drive south. More outdoorsy lodging tips: For ideas on camping gear or travel supplies, see our camping gear guide on GreenGolfingGenius. Restaurants & Dining In nearby Cumming (GPS “GA-20/Keith Bridge Road”), you’ll find plenty of eateries for any meal. Popular picks include: Most chains (pizza, Mexican, burger joints) also have locations in Cumming. Food delivery is limited; plan ahead. Many restaurants close by 8–9 PM, so eat early if you’re out late. Tip: Pack a picnic dinner and eat at the campground beach for the sunset! The Bald Ridge beach has picnic tables where you can relax by the water after dark. Pet (Dog) Policy Dogs are welcome at Bald Ridge Creek Campground, but please follow the rules. All pets must be on a leash (6 feet max) at all times. Clean up after your pet to keep the park clean. Note that pets cannot enter the bathhouses, playground, or designated swim beach. Pets also are not allowed in any park buildings (like the gatehouse or restrooms). The forested grounds mean ticks and insects are out – check your dog for ticks each evening. Overall, the campground is very pet-friendly, and your dog will enjoy sniffing the pine trees and splashing in the shallows. Tip: Bring your dog’s favorite bed or crate. Even though sites are somewhat isolated, it’s nice to have a familiar spot for pets. You might also bring extra towels to dry off wet dogs after lake swims. Recommended Camping Gear (Amazon Picks) For your trip to Bald Ridge Creek, consider these popular camping essentials (links go to Amazon): These affiliate camping gear picks will help make your stay more comfortable. And for even more gear advice, see Touring Diary Adventure camping equipment shop. Bald Ridge Creek Campground is a top choice for families, couples, and pet owners looking for lake fun near Atlanta. With easy access, great facilities, and stunning lake views, it’s a wonderful place to pitch a tent or park your RV. Safe travels and happy camping at Bald Ridge Creek!