Finding a good, low-traffic dump station in a popular area like Lake Lanier can feel like a secret mission. While campgrounds are often the default choice, they come with crowds and predictable checkout-time rushes. That's why savvy RVers keep a place like Lanier Harbor Boat & RV Storage on their map. Located just south of GA-365 and a few minutes from I-985, this isn't just a storage lot; it's one of the largest and most polished facilities in North Georgia, boasting over 425 stalls for boats and RVs. With that kind of scale comes a certain level of professionalism and infrastructure, including a purpose-built RV dump station that most of the public doesn't even know exists. For the full-timer or weekend warrior who values efficiency over frills, Lanier Harbor is a strategic stop to handle the dirty work before heading north into the mountains or spending another day on the lake.
The facility is perfectly positioned in the Buford-Gainesville corridor, an area that hugs the western edge of Lake Lanier. This region is an absolute hub for recreation. You’re not just stopping to empty your tanks; you’re positioning yourself for adventure. One day you could be zip-lining at Lanier Islands, and the next you could be diving into local history at the Northeast Georgia History Center in Gainesville. For those who appreciate a good craft beer after a long drive, the area is brimming with small-batch breweries. And if you need to stretch your legs, the Chicopee Woods mountain bike trails are just a short 15-minute drive away, offering a fantastic network of trails for all skill levels. A stop at Lanier Harbor feels less like a chore and more like a tactical pause in a region full of possibilities. You can get cleaned up, reorganized, and ready for whatever comes next.
Like other private storage yards, this one operates with a different set of rules and expectations than a campground. The first thing you'll notice is the space. The aprons and lanes are incredibly wide, paved with smooth concrete, and designed to accommodate huge Class A motorhomes towing boats. This means aligning your sewer outlet with the drain is an absolute dream. There are no tight corners or awkward angles to navigate. You will have to sign in at the office, even if you’re only there for a ten-minute tank dump. This is standard procedure for security and accountability. While you won’t find full hookups, you will find 15-amp electrical posts scattered around. This is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to plug in and run a trickle charge to your house batteries while you're flushing your tanks and cleaning up. The security presence is noticeable, with staff often making rounds on golf carts. They’re not there to rush you, but it’s a good reminder to keep your setup tidy and be efficient.
Now, let's get to the most critical piece of information for this specific location: the water situation. At last check, there was no on-site water available at the dump station. This is a game-changer and something you absolutely must plan for. For an experienced RVer, this isn't a deal-breaker, but it requires preparation. It means you need to arrive with your own rinse water. This could be a few gallons in jugs for a quick hose rinse, or ideally, a dedicated portable water tote that you can use to properly flush your black tank. Before you even head this way, you must call the office. Infrastructure gets updated, and they may have installed a spigot since the last report. A quick phone call will tell you whether you need to come fully prepared with your own water supply.
Beyond the water issue, the amenity list is sparse, as you’d expect from a storage facility. Pets are not allowed outside your rig, a standard rule to keep the paved lots clean. However, there is a major plus: trash disposal. They have large, roll-top dumpsters where you can get rid of your household garbage. This is a huge convenience, saving you from having to haul it around looking for another place. There are no showers, restrooms, gas, or propane services. This is a purely functional, maintenance-oriented stop. You handle your business and then head to the Publix or Shell station down the road for your other supplies.
When it comes to cost, the details aren’t publicly listed. You’ll have to inquire when you call. Given the premium nature of the facility, you can expect to pay a nominal fee for day-use access. For those who rent a storage stall here, the dump fee is often waived, making it a great perk for long-term customers. Always confirm the price and accepted payment methods before you arrive to avoid any surprises.
Here are a few insider tips for a smooth visit. If you’re driving a big rig over 40 feet, request to use the north gate; the turns are a bit wider and more forgiving. If you've confirmed there's still no water, make sure your water tote is full and your nozzle is ready to go before you even pull up to the dump station. This is a great place to combine errands; the nearby Shell station on Friendship Road has propane, so you can do your dump and your fill-up in one efficient loop. Try to avoid visiting between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays. McEver Road gets heavily congested with commuter traffic, and you don’t want to be stuck in a jam.
In conclusion, Lanier Harbor is a polished, professional, and no-nonsense choice for tank maintenance on the west side of Lake Lanier. Its Achilles' heel is the potential lack of on-site water, which requires you to be self-sufficient. However, if you come prepared, the trade-off is a spacious, clean, and quiet environment where you can get the job done quickly and without stress. The on-site trash disposal and trickle-charge outlets are valuable perks that make this a very practical waypoint for the organized RVer.
6915 McEver Rd, Buford, GA 30518
(770) 880-1619
Cost: Price not available
Category: Boat storage facility
No Water
lanierharborstorage.com