About OLD FEDERAL
Overview Old Federal Campground lies on the eastern banks of Lake Sidney Lanier in Northern Georgia. Popular for its aqua-blue waters and spectacular scenery, Lake Sidney Lanier hosts over 11 million visitors annually for fantastic fishing and boating opportunities.Recreation Old Federal Campground offers many outdoor recreation opportunities including fishing, swimming, picnicking and bike riding. On the lake there are opportunities for wake boarding, kayaking, boating and much more. There's also a swimming beach and boat ramp available for campers.Facilities There are 65 campsites that have electric and water hookups (no sewer) and 12 primitive tent-only campsites. There are also 7 walk-in sites for those who don't mind leaving their vehicles behind. Campers will have access to restrooms/bathouses, laundry facilities, two picnic shelters and a dump station.Natural Features Lake Sidney Lanier is nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake features 692 miles of shoreline and spans 38,000 surface water acres and 17,000 acres of lush terrain. The reservoir was created in 1956 with teh completion of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River. Contact Info This location is staffed. Please call (770) 533-7225 to speak with local staff. Nearby Attractions Lake Lanier Islands as well as other nearby Army Corps and county parks provide may different recreation opportunities at the lake. The nearby city of Gainesville provides many opportunities for those looking to explore the local area.Charges & Cancellations Cancellations must be made via the online/phone reservation system or in person at the gatehouse. Cancellation calls to the gatehouse will not be honored.
How to Get There
Take 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to OLD FEDERAL
Heading to OLD FEDERAL? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for OLD FEDERAL?
No central reservation system listed for OLD FEDERAL. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232657) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OLD FEDERAL?
Take 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.
How do I contact OLD FEDERAL?
You can reach the park at phone: 770-967-6757 or email: stanley.g.merritt@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
