The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Lake Sidney Lanier

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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.

98% (536)

Top-rated campgrounds

Using one of the tiny footbridges that passes over the meandering creek.

2. Your Toccoa River Cove!

97%
(297)
3 sites · Lodging · Mineral Bluff, GA
The Cove consists of 12 acres with a tributary stream and spring fed ponds less than a half mile from the Toccoa River. It was originally the water source for the surrounding properties prior to the city installing a water system. It is completely private and unspoiled nature, with about a mile of walking trails throughout. The Mountaintop is a 3 acre high elevation site bordering 140 acres of undisturbed woods and is also very close to the Toccoa River. Fantastic location yet very private for base camp to access the many activities in this area, or enjoy the Toccoa River. It is the only campground in Fannin County limited to only one group at a time. Each site includes 2 access points to the Toccoa River. The Gibbs Drive community river access lot has a charcoal grill, picnic table, boat launch, swimming rock and fire pit with chairs. The Toccoa River Forest community river access lot has a big boat ramp. The river is controlled flow and usually at low water from dawn to about 2 pm, ideal for fishing or swimming/wading/boulder bopping. The River release schedule is available online at the website TVA.gov. The River has swift current when the dam is opened for release, usually daily. This property is conveniently located in Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559, just 4 miles off the 4-lane highway (Highway 515/76) and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, Georgia; Blairsville, Georgia; Murphy, North Carolina, McCaysville, Georgia and Copper Hill, Tennessee. It is a paved road drive all the way to the entrance. It is located just a few miles from the center of downtown Blue Ridge with art galleries, many restaurants, brew pubs, shopping, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company, Mercier Orchard, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, and more! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad runs most of the year from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, right along the Toccoa River. The campsites are equally close to downtown McCaysville, Ga. /Copper Hill, TN. You are a short drive from Lake Blue Ridge, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Bald and many hiking trails, such as the Aska adventure area, the Appalachian Trail, the Benton McCaye Trail, and trails in the Big Frog wilderness area, Cohutta wilderness area (largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi) the Rich Mountain wilderness area and the Project Chimps hiking trails. The Ocoee River whitewater center with the Olympic kayak rapids and the world class mountain biking trails are less than 20 minutes away. Hiking, biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, boating, swimming, zip lines -- oh my!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

9. Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

98%
(22)
2 sites · Lodging · Martin, GA
New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 Welcome to Creekside Cabin, only 0.25mi from Lake Hartwell. Nestled in the woods, enjoy 500ft2 indoors and an additional 500ft2 of outdoor living space, strategically designed to provide unexpected spaciousness and comfort. Discover: 2 king beds, a loft bedroom with private balcony, open floor plan, stocked kitchen, & a plethora of entertainment. Ideal for nature-lovers, revel in 3 stories of decking with: a hot tub, fire pit, grill, daybed, outdoor tv, & covered porch, all surrounded by trees. EXPLORE NEARBY - 1 mi (Community Access) → Lake Hartwell - 17 mins → Tugaloo State Park - 25 mins → Lake Hartwell State Park - 34 mins → Chau Ram County Park - 35 mins → Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari - 36 mins → Victoria Bryant State Park - 40 mins → Tallulah Gorge State Park and Waterfalls - 45 mins → Riley Moore Falls
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$120
 / night
Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

10. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

89%
(37)
1 site · Lodging · Morganton, GA
Learn more about this land: Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available. Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you. Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Downward Dog Lodge

15. Downward Dog Lodge

100%
(1)
1 site · Lodging · Blue Ridge, GA
Welcome to our mountain lodge, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains. Downward Dog Lodge is a tranquil retreat where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of modern living. The perfect way to escape the hustle & bustle of life, reconnect with nature, or enjoy yoga! This is the place! Enjoy our pet-friendly cabin with a yoga spin! We offer a four-bedroom open layout with pool table, hot tub and two living rooms. The best part is that we also have a yoga den, outdoor entertainment areas and are centrally located to hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing and Bigfoot! This beautiful cabin is situated in Cherry Log on the mountain top, some experience rest, relaxation and a little wildlife. Centrally located to Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Aska, Toccoa, and so much more...You'll enjoy a serene and private lot with easy access to wineries, hiking trails, downtown shopping districts, water sports, golf courses and all the mountain escapes you'd look for! The cabin offers a range of amenities including: - Dog Friendly Cabin with a Gated Deck - Yoga Den with Panoramic Windows and Beautiful Views - Outdoor wood Fire Pit - Cozy and comfortable furnishings - Fully equipped kitchen... I mean FULLY! - Keurig and Coffee Pots, Airfryer, and Gas Stove - High-speed Wi-Fi - Flat-screen TVs in every room with streaming services - Wood-burning fireplace indoors! - Outdoor deck with seating and a BBQ grill - Hot tub (Available for bookings after September 1, 2024) - Game Room with 7' Pool Table, Shuffleboard & Games - Washer and dryer - Air conditioning and heating - Free Parking - Scenic views of the surrounding nature - Proximity to hiking trails and local attractions - And so much more...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$240
 / night
My Mountain Escape!

16. My Mountain Escape!

1 site · Lodging · Tiger, GA
**Escape to Your Mountain Retreat: Authentic Log Cabin by a Serene Brook** Welcome to your ideal getaway! Nestled beside a gentle mountain brook, our authentic log cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Whether you're unwinding under the cool summer night sky with windows open, cozying up by the wood-burning stove as snow softly blankets the landscape, or basking in the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, this cabin is your perfect retreat. Step into our stylish log cabin where nature meets luxury. The main floor features a cozy queen bedroom with a half bath, a full kitchen, a fold-out couch for extra comfort, and a full bath. An inviting sleeping loft with another queen bed awaits you, while the lower level provides an additional queen bed and full bath, plus a covered deck where you can relax by the brook. Enjoy a morning coffee on the front porch swing or the wraparound upper deck, complete with seating cushions for a comfortable afternoon nap in the double hammock. The lower covered deck is a serene spot to listen to the brook’s soothing melody. You have complete access to the entire cabin (excluding the owner's closet). Make yourself at home and feel free to enjoy anything you find out—your comfort is our priority! Our cabin is tucked away in a small neighborhood but offers the privacy and tranquility of a secluded retreat. Embrace the mountain air and the peaceful symphony of crickets as you escape the hustle and bustle of city life. We can’t wait for you to experience this slice of paradise and create unforgettable memories in our charming cabin!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night

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.

98% (536)

Top-rated campgrounds

Using one of the tiny footbridges that passes over the meandering creek.

2. Your Toccoa River Cove!

97%
(297)
3 sites · Lodging · Mineral Bluff, GA
The Cove consists of 12 acres with a tributary stream and spring fed ponds less than a half mile from the Toccoa River. It was originally the water source for the surrounding properties prior to the city installing a water system. It is completely private and unspoiled nature, with about a mile of walking trails throughout. The Mountaintop is a 3 acre high elevation site bordering 140 acres of undisturbed woods and is also very close to the Toccoa River. Fantastic location yet very private for base camp to access the many activities in this area, or enjoy the Toccoa River. It is the only campground in Fannin County limited to only one group at a time. Each site includes 2 access points to the Toccoa River. The Gibbs Drive community river access lot has a charcoal grill, picnic table, boat launch, swimming rock and fire pit with chairs. The Toccoa River Forest community river access lot has a big boat ramp. The river is controlled flow and usually at low water from dawn to about 2 pm, ideal for fishing or swimming/wading/boulder bopping. The River release schedule is available online at the website TVA.gov. The River has swift current when the dam is opened for release, usually daily. This property is conveniently located in Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559, just 4 miles off the 4-lane highway (Highway 515/76) and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, Georgia; Blairsville, Georgia; Murphy, North Carolina, McCaysville, Georgia and Copper Hill, Tennessee. It is a paved road drive all the way to the entrance. It is located just a few miles from the center of downtown Blue Ridge with art galleries, many restaurants, brew pubs, shopping, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company, Mercier Orchard, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, and more! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad runs most of the year from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, right along the Toccoa River. The campsites are equally close to downtown McCaysville, Ga. /Copper Hill, TN. You are a short drive from Lake Blue Ridge, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Bald and many hiking trails, such as the Aska adventure area, the Appalachian Trail, the Benton McCaye Trail, and trails in the Big Frog wilderness area, Cohutta wilderness area (largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi) the Rich Mountain wilderness area and the Project Chimps hiking trails. The Ocoee River whitewater center with the Olympic kayak rapids and the world class mountain biking trails are less than 20 minutes away. Hiking, biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, boating, swimming, zip lines -- oh my!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

9. Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

98%
(22)
2 sites · Lodging · Martin, GA
New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 Welcome to Creekside Cabin, only 0.25mi from Lake Hartwell. Nestled in the woods, enjoy 500ft2 indoors and an additional 500ft2 of outdoor living space, strategically designed to provide unexpected spaciousness and comfort. Discover: 2 king beds, a loft bedroom with private balcony, open floor plan, stocked kitchen, & a plethora of entertainment. Ideal for nature-lovers, revel in 3 stories of decking with: a hot tub, fire pit, grill, daybed, outdoor tv, & covered porch, all surrounded by trees. EXPLORE NEARBY - 1 mi (Community Access) → Lake Hartwell - 17 mins → Tugaloo State Park - 25 mins → Lake Hartwell State Park - 34 mins → Chau Ram County Park - 35 mins → Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari - 36 mins → Victoria Bryant State Park - 40 mins → Tallulah Gorge State Park and Waterfalls - 45 mins → Riley Moore Falls
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$120
 / night
Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

10. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

89%
(37)
1 site · Lodging · Morganton, GA
Learn more about this land: Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available. Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you. Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Downward Dog Lodge

15. Downward Dog Lodge

100%
(1)
1 site · Lodging · Blue Ridge, GA
Welcome to our mountain lodge, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains. Downward Dog Lodge is a tranquil retreat where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of modern living. The perfect way to escape the hustle & bustle of life, reconnect with nature, or enjoy yoga! This is the place! Enjoy our pet-friendly cabin with a yoga spin! We offer a four-bedroom open layout with pool table, hot tub and two living rooms. The best part is that we also have a yoga den, outdoor entertainment areas and are centrally located to hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing and Bigfoot! This beautiful cabin is situated in Cherry Log on the mountain top, some experience rest, relaxation and a little wildlife. Centrally located to Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Aska, Toccoa, and so much more...You'll enjoy a serene and private lot with easy access to wineries, hiking trails, downtown shopping districts, water sports, golf courses and all the mountain escapes you'd look for! The cabin offers a range of amenities including: - Dog Friendly Cabin with a Gated Deck - Yoga Den with Panoramic Windows and Beautiful Views - Outdoor wood Fire Pit - Cozy and comfortable furnishings - Fully equipped kitchen... I mean FULLY! - Keurig and Coffee Pots, Airfryer, and Gas Stove - High-speed Wi-Fi - Flat-screen TVs in every room with streaming services - Wood-burning fireplace indoors! - Outdoor deck with seating and a BBQ grill - Hot tub (Available for bookings after September 1, 2024) - Game Room with 7' Pool Table, Shuffleboard & Games - Washer and dryer - Air conditioning and heating - Free Parking - Scenic views of the surrounding nature - Proximity to hiking trails and local attractions - And so much more...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$240
 / night
My Mountain Escape!

16. My Mountain Escape!

1 site · Lodging · Tiger, GA
**Escape to Your Mountain Retreat: Authentic Log Cabin by a Serene Brook** Welcome to your ideal getaway! Nestled beside a gentle mountain brook, our authentic log cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Whether you're unwinding under the cool summer night sky with windows open, cozying up by the wood-burning stove as snow softly blankets the landscape, or basking in the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, this cabin is your perfect retreat. Step into our stylish log cabin where nature meets luxury. The main floor features a cozy queen bedroom with a half bath, a full kitchen, a fold-out couch for extra comfort, and a full bath. An inviting sleeping loft with another queen bed awaits you, while the lower level provides an additional queen bed and full bath, plus a covered deck where you can relax by the brook. Enjoy a morning coffee on the front porch swing or the wraparound upper deck, complete with seating cushions for a comfortable afternoon nap in the double hammock. The lower covered deck is a serene spot to listen to the brook’s soothing melody. You have complete access to the entire cabin (excluding the owner's closet). Make yourself at home and feel free to enjoy anything you find out—your comfort is our priority! Our cabin is tucked away in a small neighborhood but offers the privacy and tranquility of a secluded retreat. Embrace the mountain air and the peaceful symphony of crickets as you escape the hustle and bustle of city life. We can’t wait for you to experience this slice of paradise and create unforgettable memories in our charming cabin!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night

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The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Lake Sidney Lanier guide

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. 

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