There are dump stations, and then there are experiences. Sawnee Campground on Lake Lanier falls squarely into the latter category. Perched just north of the massive Buford Dam, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park offers what might be the most scenic dump station on the entire lake. Imagine this: instead of staring at the back of a gas station, you’re breathing in the scent of pine needles as sunlight glints off the sparkling water just a stone’s throw away. It turns a routine chore into a genuinely pleasant moment. For RVers who appreciate a beautiful setting, Sawnee’s well-designed, easy-to-access dump station is a major highlight. The turning circle is roomy, the lanes are easy to back into, and the whole process feels less like a task and more like a choreographed pause in a beautiful location.
The campground is located in Cumming, a town that proudly calls itself the “Gateway to Leisure Living.” With over eleven million people visiting Lake Lanier annually, it’s a title that’s well-earned. The area is packed with things to do after you’ve taken care of your holding tanks. You can rent a stand-up paddleboard from nearby West Bank Park and explore the coves, or head over to the dam’s spillway to take some impressive photos. For families, the Cumming Aquatic Center is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. And if you’re up for a bit of a hike, the Sawnee Mountain Preserve offers panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Blue Ridge Mountains on a clear day. A stop at Sawnee Campground isn't just practical; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the recreational heart of Georgia.
Being a Corps of Engineers campground, Sawnee operates with a certain predictable rhythm that experienced campers will appreciate. You’ll be greeted at a ranger gatehouse where a host will check your tags and process your payment. It’s always a good idea to have your ID and preferred payment method ready. One of the standout features here is the dual-lane dump pad. This is a fantastic design choice that accommodates two rigs at the same time, significantly cutting down on potential wait times, especially during the busy checkout period on a Sunday morning. The approach roads are paved, but be warned: the entrance hill is surprisingly steep. It’s one of those hills that looks less intimidating than it actually is, so be sure to shift into a lower gear before you begin your descent to save your brakes. Like all CoE parks, quiet hours are strictly enforced starting at 10 p.m., so plan on getting your dumping done well before then.
The amenities at Sawnee are top-notch for a public campground. You have access to non-potable rinse water at the dump station, and there’s a potable water fill-up station conveniently located near the fish-cleaning station. The park is very pet-friendly, and the miles of shoreline roads provide the perfect-built-in trail for walking your dog, provided they are on a leash. The bathhouses are clean and well-maintained, and they include coin-operated laundry machines, which is a huge plus for anyone who’s been on the road for a while. You’ll also find plenty of dumpsters and recycling cages throughout the campground loops, making it easy to keep your site tidy. Every campsite is equipped with both 30 and 50-amp electric hookups, which is great for topping off your batteries while you enjoy the scenery.
There are a few things you’ll need to source elsewhere. The park doesn’t have gas or propane, so you’ll need to make a stop at the Ace Hardware on GA-400 for a propane fill. There are also no on-site repair services, so any major mechanical issues will require a trip to an RV shop in Dahlonega or the Atlanta area. As always with government-run facilities, it's a good practice to check for any alerts or changes on the official recreation website before you arrive.
The value you get at Sawnee is exceptional. A day-use dump fee is typically around $5, though this isn't always listed online, so a quick phone call to the gatehouse is the best way to confirm the exact price. If you decide to stay the night, the electric sites are very reasonably priced, usually between $32 and $34, and that fee includes access to the dump station. When you consider the million-dollar lakefront views and the quiet, pine-scented air, it’s an incredible bargain. You're getting a front-row seat on one of Georgia's most popular and beautiful lakes for a fraction of what a private park would charge.
To make your visit as smooth as possible, here are a few final tips. If you plan on camping, especially during the peak season, you need to reserve your spot online as far as six months in advance. These sites get snapped up quickly. Again, use a low gear on that steep entry hill. Bring plenty of quarters for the laundry machines, as they don’t accept credit cards. The best time to use the dump station is on a weekday morning when the bass anglers are already out on the water and the campground is quiet. One last local tip: the water in this area can be quite hard. Using a charcoal filter on your fresh water hose is a good idea to help prevent mineral buildup in your RV’s plumbing system.
In conclusion, Sawnee Campground is a gem. It feels almost like a boutique campground, thanks to its stunning location on wooded peninsulas with sweeping lake views. When you add in the well-maintained dual-lane dump station, reliable water, and full bathhouse facilities, it’s a combination that’s hard to beat. As long as you plan for your own propane and major repairs, this is a must-visit spot. Pencil Sawnee into your Lake Lanier travel plans, and you can reward yourself with a spectacular lakeside sunrise after the dirty work is done.
3200 Buford Dam Rd, Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-0592
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
parks.forsythco.com/Parks/Sawnee-Campground