Old Federal

4.57

450 reviews

6219 OLD FEDERAL ROAD, FLOWERY BRANCH, GA, 30542, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Georgia Best Campgrounds Georgia Swimming Camping Georgia +11 more

Quick Facts

1,109 ft

Price

$8 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

84 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,109 ft

Price

$8 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

84 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Old Federal

$8.00 - $9.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Reservations include an additional fee of $8 if made online, $9 if made through the contact center, or $3 if made in person.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

470-774-7881Brent.J.Cossette@sam.usace.army.mil

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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 450 reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulwaterlake

"Reviews for Old Federal Campground are highly polarized. Positive feedback highlights the beautiful waterfront views, spacious campsites, and friendly campground hosts. However, negative comments emphasize deferred maintenance, high grass, and cleanliness issues in the bathhouses."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

6219 OLD FEDERAL ROAD, FLOWERY BRANCH, GA, 30542, USA

Old Federal

6219 OLD FEDERAL ROAD, FLOWERY BRANCH, GA, 30542, USA

Driving directionsTake I-85 north to I-985, take Exit 8, turn left on Hwy 347/Friendship Rd., turn right on McEver Rd., turn left on Jim Crow Rd. and follow signs to the campground.

Road access includes paved roads, but there are user complaints about tight entrances and exits. One review mentions 'The entrance causes a backup because those checking in block other registered campers' and another specifies 'The exit is a tight squeeze between rock pillars.'

Nearby places

Gainesville: Approximately 10 miles

Atlanta: Approximately 45 miles.

Nearby supplies

Groceries and supplies can be found in Gainesville, GA, or nearby Flowery Branch. Walmart and Publix are mentioned in reviews as convenient supply locations.

Best Time to Camp at Old Federal

Experience four distinct seasons at Old Federal, each offering its own unique charm. Summer transforms the campground into a water lover's paradise, where warm, humid days invite endless swimming, boating, and lakeside lounging. As autumn paints the surrounding hills in brilliant golds and crimsons, cooler temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking and campfire gatherings. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the shores, with crisp air and fewer crowds making it ideal for those seeking tranquil retreats. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and gentle breezes, offering perhaps the most delightful camping weather of the year.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Summer is a water-lover's prime season but it's crowded and maintenance/geese issues grow worse.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall is noted as one of the best times: milder weather, fewer crowds and pleasant conditions.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in GA

Spring is cited as a best time to visit with pleasant weather and lower crowds than summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round and quieter in winter; limited water activity but peaceful visits possible.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No specific peak season date ranges provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: No current alerts provided.

About Old Federal

Nestled along the pristine eastern shores of Lake Sidney Lanier, Old Federal Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning waterfront vistas and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, this lakeside haven offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern camping amenities, all while providing direct access to one of Georgia's most beloved aquatic playgrounds.

The campground caters to a range of camping styles, from RV sites with hookups to primitive and walk-in tent sites.

Historical SignificanceSince the completion of Buford Dam in 1956 gave birth to Lake Sidney Lanier, this magnificent body of water has evolved from an engineering marvel into Georgia's premier recreational treasure. What began as a flood control and power generation project has blossomed into a beloved destination that draws millions of visitors annually, with Old Federal Campground serving as a gateway to decades of cherished family memories and outdoor adventures.

Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Old Federal, each offering its own unique charm. Summer transforms the campground into a water lover's paradise, where warm, humid days invite endless swimming, boating, and lakeside lounging. As autumn paints the surrounding hills in brilliant golds and crimsons, cooler temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking and campfire gatherings. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the shores, with crisp air and fewer crowds making it ideal for those seeking tranquil retreats. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and gentle breezes, offering perhaps the most delightful camping weather of the year.

ElevationSpecific elevation details are currently being updated for this location.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where emerald forests meet sapphire waters, creating a breathtaking tapestry of natural splendor. The campground's lush, rolling terrain provides a verdant backdrop to the star attraction: spectacular panoramic views of Lake Sidney Lanier's crystalline waters. With an astounding 692 miles of intricately carved shoreline and expansive aqua-blue waters that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon, every campsite offers its own window into this aquatic wonderland.

Geological RegionPerfectly positioned in the gentle foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Federal Campground claims its place on the eastern banks of the magnificent Lake Sidney Lanier. This 38,000-acre aquatic jewel weaves through ancient valleys and ridges, creating a stunning marriage of mountain and lake ecosystems that defines North Georgia's unique geographical character.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is at 3:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is by 1:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Campers may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and no more than 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific data provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is arranged in loops, with some sites offering walk-in access and others designated for RVs with hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible but limited by system constraints. Some reviews complain about difficulties in securing walk-up sites, particularly during busy weekends.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made via online/phone reservation system or in person at the gatehouse. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night's use fee for late cancellations.

AccessibilitySome accessible campsites are available, and the campground features paved roads and parking areas, though detailed accessibility features are not described.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with RV sites accommodating larger vehicles up to 42 feet. Primitive and tent-only sites are smaller but provide direct access to natural features like the lake.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. While some sites are spacious and separated by natural foliage, others are described as '10 feet away from each other,' offering minimal privacy.

Total Campsites84 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose waterfront sites for the best views (e.g., 33, 44, 68). Some sites near bathhouses (e.g., 56, 62) are convenient but often dirty.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Old Federal Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, biking, picnicking, and boating. Reviewers frequently commend the lakefront views and water-based activities, such as kayaking and wakeboarding.

FishingFishing is a popular activity, with campers reporting access to Lake Sidney Lanier's waters. Specific fish species or quality of fishing are not detailed.

SwimmingThe campground features a designated swimming beach, which is appreciated by families. However, reviewers note that geese frequently occupy the beach area, creating hygiene concerns.

BikingBiking is possible on the paved roads within the campground. However, there are no dedicated bike trails.

BoatingBoating is highly popular, with access to a boat ramp. Reviewers also enjoy watching sailboats from the nearby sailing club.

Wildlife viewingCampers frequently note sightings of geese, ducks, and deer. While birdwatching is popular, geese feces around campsites and the beach are a recurring issue.

Beach activitiesBeach activities include swimming and sunbathing. Geese feces in the sand and water are noted as a significant drawback.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon hazards include high winds, flooding during storms, and wildlife like geese, which contribute to sanitation issues. Several reviews note storm damage and tall grass attracting insects and snakes.

Active AlertsNo current alerts provided.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed but must be in designated fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are most likely located in Gainesville, GA, approximately 10 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling services are mentioned, but there are reports of inconsistent maintenance. Some reviews describe overflowing dumpsters and a lack of routine cleaning.

Water FeaturesDirect access to Lake Sidney Lanier is available, including a designated swimming beach and boat ramp. Many campsites are waterfront.

Camp HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful by most reviewers, although some reviews indicate issues with professionalism and lack of authority.

Weather at Old Federal

Reviews

4.6

450 reviews

Top-Rated

Old Federal is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Old Federal Campground are highly polarized. Positive feedback highlights the beautiful waterfront views, spacious campsites, and friendly campground hosts. However, negative comments emphasize deferred maintenance, high grass, and cleanliness issues in the bathhouses.

Review Summaries

Based on 450 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the scenic lakefront views, easy access to the water, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. Many note the friendliness and helpfulness of the campground hosts.

Based on 450 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include overgrown grass, poorly maintained restrooms, and inconsistent trash removal. The presence of geese and their feces is a significant issue for many visitors.

Based on 450 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing cleaning supplies for the bathhouses and planning to arrive during daylight due to narrow entrance roads. Booking well in advance is advised, as the campground fills up...

Based on 450 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During the summer, the campground is particularly crowded, and maintenance issues like overgrown grass and geese feces become more pronounced. Spring and fall are noted as the best times to visit due...

Based on 450 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The water view from our tent was amazing and the birds were so beautiful to hear all night,' 'The lake was beautiful esp early morning! Geese and ducks swam by with their babies!'

Based on 450 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback includes praise for sites with direct lake access, such as 33 and 44. Some sites are criticized for being hard to maneuver into, especially for larger RVs.

Based on 450 reviews