Middletons On The Move contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of our links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclaimer here.

Bald Ridge Creek Campground Review Based on 100+ Nights

ByMorgan Middleton

Are you searching for a peaceful, waterfront Lake Lanier campground that actually lives up to the hype? If so, keep reading!

After spending over 100 nights at Bald Ridge Campground staying in multiple different sites across numerous visits, we’ve come to know the hidden gems, breathtaking sunset views, and yes, even a few quirks.

In this post, we’re giving you our brutally honest, experience-backed review of Bald Ridge Creek Campground.

We’ll share our favorite sites for both views and privacy, explain why this is our go-to spot for lake getaways, and highlight the one frustrating downside you’ll want to plan around. Whether you’re rolling in with an RV or pitching a tent lakeside, this is everything you need to know before booking.

Peaceful lakefront campsite at Bald Ridge Campground with a grassy area, water spigot, and electrical hookup in the foreground. A large pine tree shades the shoreline, overlooking the calm blue water and wooded banks across the lake.

What Makes Bald Ridge Creek Campground So Popular?

If you’ve searched for places to camp on Lake Lanier, Bald Ridge Creek Campground has likely come up more than once. Located in Cumming, Georgia, it sits on the southern end of the lake and is easy to access from GA-400 (exit 16). You are close to town but it still feels like a true escape.

The real draw here is the mix of scenic waterfront views, (mostly) spacious sites, and reasonable rates. It has a peaceful, natural feel that’s hard to find in campgrounds this close to civilization.

We’ve camped at several different Lake Lanier parks, and Bald Ridge is the one we keep coming back to. It is not fancy or full of amenities, but it nails the basics. The sites are spread out, the lake views are lovely, and there is room to breathe.

Heads-up: This place stays busy when its open (early spring through mid fall). Sites often fill up quickly, especially the waterfront ones and anything around holidays. If you want a great spot, plan ahead and try to book as early as possible (6 months in advance).

Our Experience Camping at Bald Ridge

We’ve stayed at Bald Ridge for 14-day stretches on multiple occasions, and at this point, it feels like our go-to spot when we need a reliable and relaxing place to land. While not every site is ideal, there’s a lot to love once you get to know the layout and the rhythm of the campground.

Site Fit for Big Rigs

We live full-time in a 44′ fifth wheel and have found plenty of sites at Bald Ridge that can comfortably accommodate us. Most of the sites we’ve stayed in also have enough space for our tow vehicle (Ram 3500 dually) and a second car.

Spacious RV campsite at Bald Ridge Campground with a large Valor fifth-wheel trailer, camping chairs, picnic table, and fire ring set on a gravel pad beneath shady trees. A TV is mounted outside the RV and a gray pickup truck is parked nearby on the paved drive.

While not every site will work for larger RVs, we have never had trouble finding a good option if we plan ahead.

Some corners in the campground can be a bit tight, so if you are in a larger setup, it may help to have a spotter in some areas. But with a little care, it’s a manageable campground for big rigs.

General Campground Vibe

This is a quiet campground with mostly respectful campers, but be aware, the rules are enforced.

The main host is definitely a stickler for the rules so take note of them when you arrive. If she thinks someone is out of line, she will step in or escalate it.

Alcohol is prohibited in the campground by the Army Corps of Engineers and enforcement is not just for show. During a summer 2024 stay, we watched a group get kicked out after getting too rowdy. The camp host called the rangers without hesitation and they were told to leave without a refund.

Gate Access and Safety

Bald Ridge now has 24/7 access through an automatic keypad gate. This is a major improvement from past years, when the gates used to be locked overnight. With the current setup, you get both convenience and a sense of security.

A shaded lakeside campsite at Bald Ridge Campground overlooks a quiet boat dock and tree-lined shoreline under a clear blue sky. A fishing rod leans against a tree in the foreground, with a fire ring and picnic area nearby.
The view from one of our two favorite sites – Site 68

Campground Amenities at Bald Ridge: What To Expect

Bald Ridge offers a solid set of essentials, but you’ll want to be prepared for a few quirks—especially when it comes to sewer management and traffic flow near the dump station.

No Sewer Hookups at Sites

None of the campsites have full hookups… this is the norm on Lake Lanier though unless you go to Margaritaville. If you are planning a longer stay, you’ll need to manage your tanks accordingly.

We typically stay for two full weeks at a time and rely on our two black tanks and two grey tanks. Since we use our own shower and toilets, we usually end up needing to dump once mid-stay.

Our go-to strategies are either:

  • Taking the rig to the dump station about halfway through our trip (yes, that means slides in, jacks up, and everything), OR
  • Using a portable dump caddy which we find to be the easiest option overall

Many other campers use caddies too. It’s a common workaround and something worth investing in if you camp often at sites without sewer.

Dump Station Realities

The dump station itself is in a pull-through area, which means the person actively dumping is out of the road. But here’s the issue: the road leading in and out is a one-way loop, and even one RV waiting in line can block the road.

A dump station at Bald Ridge Campground features a concrete pad with sewer and water hookups, surrounded by grassy areas and signage with usage instructions. In the background, RVs are parked near the lake under a clear blue sky with trees lining the shoreline.

If you are camping in that section of the campground, you might end up temporarily stuck or unable to get to your site during busy departure times.

This is especially common on Sundays in the summer when many campers are checking out. We try to avoid staying in that loop for exactly this reason.

Bathhouses and Restrooms

There is a newer, more modern bathhouse located in the middle of the campground, which looks clean and well-kept from what we’ve seen walking by. However, the other bathhouses around the campground are definitely older and a bit dated.

A bathhouse at Bald Ridge Campground sits in a clearing surrounded by tall trees, with a paved walkway leading up to it. The building has four black doors marked for men's and women's restrooms, and a green rules sign posted in the center.

We don’t personally use them since we have a full bathroom in our RV, but it’s something to keep in mind if you rely on campground facilities.

Boat Ramp, Courtesy Dock, & Trailer Parking

There’s a small boat ramp and courtesy dock, which makes it easy to get out on the water quickly. This is great if you bring your own boat or have friends who want to pick you up for a day out on the lake.

A peaceful lakeside view at Bald Ridge Campground shows calm blue water bordered by a rocky shoreline and a metal dock on the left. In the distance, pine trees line the shore with a few RVs and a small pier visible under a clear blue sky.

Trailer parking is available but it can fill up during busy weekends.

Some of the lakefront sites even have their own small beach area or direct lake access, and it is common to see people beaching their boats right at their campsites.

Beach & Swimming Area

There’s a small beach and designated swim area perfect for cooling off in the summer. It’s not huge, but it’s great for kids or a quick dip.

A sandy swimming beach at Bald Ridge Campground faces a calm lake under a cloudy sky, with forested shorelines in the distance. A covered sign near the water provides life jacket safety information, and a trash can sits near the grassy edge.

Playground

There is a playground onsite. It was relocated after septic field work in 2025, but it’s a nice bonus for families with younger kids.

Location, Nearby Attractions & Convenience

One of our favorite things about Bald Ridge is how close it is to everything you might need—without feeling like you are right in the middle of town. You get the best of both worlds: lakefront camping with quick access to food, fuel, and fun.

Grocery Stores and Gas Stops

The campground is located off Exit 16 (Pilgrim Mill Road) on GA-400. While there are a couple of gas stations at that exit, their parking lots are tight and not ideal for larger RVs.

For easier access and better options, we usually head one exit north to Exit 17 (Keith Bridge Road). There you’ll find a QuikTrip with a larger lot that’s easier to navigate with a big rig. That exit also has grocery stores, restaurants, and more conveniences to stock up during your stay.

Pro tip: Daniel’s at Exit 16 serves a great breakfast if you can squeeze your tow vehicle into the lot. Worth it for the biscuits alone.

Local Food and Fun

If you are looking for lakefront dining or a fun outing, there are several options you can reach by boat or car. Restaurants like Pig Tales, Twisted Oar, Fish Tales, and Pelican Pete’s are local favorites with great views and casual vibes.

Three flour tortillas filled with crispy fried chicken, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, bacon pieces, and drizzled ranch dressing are served on branded paper. A generous side of golden tater tots fills the other half of the tray.
Chicken Club Tacos at Pig Tales – YUM!

Onsite, you’ve got access to a small beach area, a fishing pier, and a courtesy dock. If you have a boat or friends with one, it is easy to get out on the water.

Just 15 minutes away, Cumming City Center is a newer development with shops, restaurants, and frequent events. It’s a great option for a change of scenery or an evening out without having to drive too far.

Pros & Cons of Bald Ridge Creek Campground

After multiple visits, we’ve gotten a pretty good sense of what makes Bald Ridge shine—and what might frustrate certain campers. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next Lake Lanier getaway.

Pros

  • Waterfront Views: Many campsites offer beautiful views of Lake Lanier.
  • Spacious Sites: Plenty of options for larger RVs.
  • Quiet and Peaceful: Most stays have been relaxing with minimal noise or disturbances.
  • Boat Access: The boat ramp and courtesy dock make it easy to enjoy lake time.
  • Affordable Rates: Campsites are just $30 per night, and America the Beautiful pass holders get a discount.
  • Close to Town: Quick drive to groceries, restaurants, gas, and the Cumming City Center.
  • Pet-Friendly: Our dog has always been welcome here and we’ve seen plenty of others enjoying the campground too.
A rocky shoreline juts into Lake Lanier at Bald Ridge Campground under an overcast sky, creating a peaceful vantage point. Trees with early autumn leaves frame the view, while forested land stretches along the horizon across the calm water.

Cons

  • No Sewer Hookups: You’ll need a plan for longer stays by either using the bathhouses, dumping mid-stay, or using a portable tank.
  • Dump Station Traffic: Sunday mornings can get congested, and one RV waiting can block the one-way road near that loop.
  • Rule Enforcement: Alcohol is not allowed and the main camp host strictly enforces rules. We’ve seen groups removed for violations.
  • Some Older Facilities: Not all bathhouses are updated; only one is modern, while others are dated.

Would We Camp at Bald Ridge Again?

Absolutely! In fact, we can’t wait for our next stay!

Bald Ridge has become one of our go-to spots when we are in Georgia. It offers the kind of lakefront camping experience that is hard to beat, especially for the price.

While there are a few inconveniences, like the lack of sewer hookups and the traffic around the dump station, the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views more than make up for them. We know what to expect now, and we plan around the quirks.

This campground is a great fit if you:

  • Want a quiet, scenic place to relax by the water
  • Do not need a long list of resort-style amenities
  • Travel with pets
  • Enjoy swimming, fishing, or boating

It might not be ideal if you are looking for full hookups, organized activities, or a more social campground environment. Bald Ridge is calm, simple, and peaceful. That is exactly what keeps us coming back.

Not sure whether to camp at Bald Ridge or nearby Sawnee Campground? We’ve stayed at both and compared them side by side.

A man in a red hoodie stands at the edge of the water fishing at Bald Ridge Campground, surrounded by pine trees and calm lake water. Overhanging branches frame the scene, with dense green forest lining the opposite shore.

Plan Your Stay at Bald Ridge Creek Campground

If you are thinking about booking Bald Ridge, here are a few tips to make your stay easier and more enjoyable:

Ready to grab a campsite at Bald Ridge? Book your trip here!

Campgrounds on Lake Lanier

Want to consider other campgrounds on Lake Lanier? Here are some other options:

New to RV Life? Here’s What to Read Next

If you’re just starting your RV journey, we’ve got more resources to help you hit the road with confidence:

Whether you’re setting up for the first time or the fiftieth, we’re glad you’re here—and we’re always just a blog post away.

Sign up for Our Weekly newsletter!

Morgan is the author behind Middletons on the Move, where she shares practical RV travel tips, campground reviews, and real-world advice for life on the road. She and her husband travel full-time in a 44' fifth wheel with their dog, Coco, and have camped in everything from pop-up to a 31' Class C. With a planner’s mindset and a love for exploring, Morgan helps fellow RVers hit the road with confidence and curiosity.