Sawnee vs Bald Ridge: Which Lake Lanier Campground Wins?
Thinking about camping on Lake Lanier but not sure whether to book Sawnee Campground or Bald Ridge?
We’ve stayed at both, several times, with our 44′-foot’ fifth wheel in tow. Each has its perks and frustrations. These two seasonal campgrounds are both jointly managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Forsyth County, and they offer similar price points and amenities.
But when it comes to RV access, lake views, maneuverability, and overall experience, they’re very different.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior in a van or towing a big rig like us, this post will help you figure out which Lake Lanier campground is the better fit for your next stay.
Quick Comparison: Sawnee vs Bald Ridge Campground
| Feature | Sawnee Campground | Bald Ridge Campground |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Views for Big Rigs | Limited (larger sites are away from the water) | Many sites with views, even for larger rigs |
| Best Site Types | Smaller setups (tents, vans, short RVs) | Accessible for all rig sizes and setups |
| Entrance Access | Tight turn off Buford Dam Rd, no signal | Easier entrance from less busy road |
| Dump Station | Difficult for larger rigs | Functional but can still block traffic and have a long wait |
| Boat Ramp Access | On-site inside the campground | On-site inside the campground |
| Playground/Family Use | Yes (playground, open areas) | Yes (playground, open areas) |
| Noise Levels | Can be loud in sites near Buford Dam Rd | Generally quieter with better spacing |
| Big Rig Friendly | Minimal | High |
Site Sizes & Big-Rig Fit
When it comes to site sizes and RV compatibility, the differences between Sawnee and Bald Ridge are noticeable.
Sawnee Campground: Limited Options for Large Rigs
Sawnee can accommodate larger RVs… we’ve managed it with our 44′ fifth wheel… but it definitely requires more planning and patience. Most big-rig-friendly sites are tucked away from the lake and don’t offer much in terms of a view.
We’ve had success in Site 31, which was level and spacious enough for our triple axle RV. But like many of the larger sites, it was not close to the water.
If you’re in a compact trailer or van, Sawnee has some beautiful lakefront options, especially along Sites 16 through 24. But you definitely need to check the site sizes before booking.
Bald Ridge: Built to Fit Almost Anything
Bald Ridge, on the other hand, is much more accommodating.
We’ve camped there multiple times (we have probably spent 100+ nights there over the years) with our fifth wheel and never felt cramped. Site spacing is generous, internal roads are easier to navigate, and many of the lakefront sites are big-rig friendly which is a rare find.
Whether you’re in a tent or a 40+ foot RV, there’s a good chance you’ll find a spot that works for you at Bald Ridge.
Access & Maneuverability
Sawnee Campground: Entry Requires Precision
Getting into Sawnee takes a little finesse especially with a big rig. The entrance is directly off Buford Dam Road, which sees steady traffic and lacks a stoplight. Turning left is tough during peak times, and even turning right requires a wide swing.
Adding to the challenge, the campground sign sits right in the middle of the entrance. With our 44-foot fifth wheel, we’ve had to use every inch of road to avoid it.
Once inside, the roads are passable but tight. Corners can feel narrow, and if you’re towing something long, a spotter helps. It’s doable, but not ideal.
Bald Ridge Campground: More Forgiving Turns
Bald Ridge is far easier to approach. The entrance is off a quieter road, and there’s more space to line up before making the turn. No awkward signage in your path, either.
The internal roads are about the same width as Sawnee, but the turns are less sharp and better planned. There is one loop that is tight but still manageable with a spotter. With our fifth wheel, we’ve had no issues getting in, setting up, or navigating around the campground.
Views & Lakefront Experience
Sawnee Campground: Great Views, If You Can Fit
Sawnee has some truly scenic waterfront sites, especially along Sites 16 through 24. These sit right on the lake and offer peaceful, shaded spots with postcard-worthy views. But they’re best suited for smaller setups like tents, vans, and smaller trailers.
One thing we really love about Sawnee, though, is the peninsula trail. It’s a quiet, wooded walk that wraps around water on three sides. We took Coco there nearly every evening and always appreciated the chance to enjoy the lake without needing to be parked right next to it.
Bald Ridge Campground: More Views, More Options
While not every site at Bald Ridge offers a view, many of the lakefront sites are big-rig friendly and that’s a rare combo. We’ve stayed in spots that gave us both space and scenery, without needing to compromise.
This balance between lake views and site size is a big reason why Bald Ridge has become our go-to spot on Lake Lanier.
Amenities & Family/Boater Friendly Features
Both Sawnee and Bald Ridge offer the basics you’d expect from a Lake Lanier COE campground:
- On-site boat ramps with boat trailer parking
- Playgrounds
- Bathhouses with showers
- Dump stations
- Occasional seasonal events
The biggest difference? The dump stations.
- Sawnee’s dump station is extremely tight and poorly placed for larger RVs. Personally, we skip it entirely and chose to pay to dump elsewhere.
- Bald Ridge’s dump station is more accessible for big rigs, but lines can back up around the main loop during checkout times. This can be inconvenient if you are camping in that loop.
If you’re camping in a smaller rig, this may not matter much. But for larger setups, it could impact how smoothly your stay wraps up.
Cost, Booking & Seasonal Notes
Same Rates, Same Rules
Both Sawnee and Bald Ridge are both booked directly through Forsyth County and follow the same general rules:
- $26 and $30 per night depending on the site
- 14-day maximum stay
- Seasonal operation: typically open from mid-March through late October
- Water and electric hookups but no sewer at sites
Availability Differences
While they share the same reservation system, availability can be very different between the two.
Bald Ridge tends to book up faster, especially for big-rig-friendly lakefront sites. If you’re hoping for a premium spot, you’ll want to reserve well in advance.
Sawnee is a bit easier to snag a site, especially during shoulder seasons or weekdays. But if you’re looking for a specific site with a good view and level pad, you’ll still want to plan ahead.
Final Verdict: Which Campground Wins?
If you’re in a large RV and want lake views, easier access, and a less stressful dump station experience, Bald Ridge Campground is the clear winner. It’s more accommodating for big rigs and offers better views without sacrificing space or maneuverability.
If you’re in a smaller setup or planning a last-minute trip, Sawnee Campground is still a solid choice. The lakefront sites are scenic, the vibe is quiet and relaxed, and it’s often a bit easier to book.
We’ve stayed at both, but when we want to settle in for a longer trip on Lake Lanier, we almost always choose Bald Ridge.
Still undecided? Check out our full reviews of each campground for even more photos, site info, and tips:
Campgrounds on Lake Lanier
Want to consider other campgrounds on Lake Lanier? Here are some other options:
- Margaritaville Lake Lanier RV Resort
- Old Federal Campground
- River Forks Park
- Shady Grove Campground
- Shoal Creek Campground
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:
- 👉 RV Essentials for Beginners – Gear you actually need (and what you can skip)
- 👉 How to Plan Your First RV Trip – A step-by-step trip planning guide
- 👉 Helpful RV Apps – Navigation, campgrounds, weather, and more
- 👉 Unwritten Rules of RV Etiquette – Don’t be that neighbor
- 👉 RV Travel Is the Best Way to Explore the US – In case you need a reminder of how awesome this life is
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.