Bolding Mill
4.41594 reviews4055 CHESTATEE ROAD
Bolding Mill
$3.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
The recreation use fee varies by activity, with camping fees depending on the location and type of site. Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person. Additional fees include a $10 change fee and a $10 cancellation fee.
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Sidney Lanier, Bolding Mill Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect balance of modern comfort and natural splendor. This waterfront haven features 88 spacious sites equipped with electric and water hookups, alongside nine peaceful tent-only sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line from the fishing pier, or simply lounging on the sandy swimming beach, every amenity has been thoughtfully designed for your adventure. Modern conveniences like laundry facilities and hot showers ensure you can extend your stay in comfort while remaining connected to the great outdoors.
The campground offers a mix of camping styles, including RV sites with electric/water hookups, tent-only primitive sites, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground's modern amenities serve today's adventurers, the surrounding landscape whispers stories of Georgia's past, from the ancient Cherokee trails that once crossed these hills to the communities that gave way to the creation of Lake Lanier in the 1950s.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Bolding Mill into a sultry Southern paradise, where warm, humid days invite endless water activities and evening campfires glow beneath star-filled skies. The characteristic Georgia humidity creates those magical misty mornings over the lake, while afternoon clouds often bring refreshing rain showers that cool the campground and release the earthy scent of pine. Spring and fall offer crisp, comfortable camping weather perfect for hiking and exploring, while mild winters provide a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude.
ElevationPerched at the gentle rise where the Piedmont meets the foothills, the campground offers varied terrain that provides both lakeside sites and elevated spots with sweeping water views.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore of Lake Sidney Lanier's vast 38,000-acre aquatic playground, where emerald waters stretch to the horizon, dotted with hidden coves and scenic islands. The campground itself is a verdant oasis, where towering hardwoods and whispering pines create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across well-maintained grassy sites. Beyond the campground, 17,000 acres of protected land showcase the region's diverse ecosystem, from wildflower meadows to dense forests that change with the seasons, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills.
Geological RegionBolding Mill Campground sits at nature's crossroads, where the ancient, weathered peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains gradually surrender to Georgia's rolling Piedmont. This unique position along Lake Sidney Lanier places campers in a geological wonderland, where exposed granite outcroppings tell stories millions of years old, and the forested foothills create a stunning amphitheater of green surrounding the sapphire waters. The varied topography creates diverse microclimates and habitats, making every hike an opportunity to discover something new in this transitional landscape between mountains and coastal plain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe swim beach is concrete and ADA-accessible. Other accessibility features include paved roads and accessible campsites. However, reports of denial for using golf carts even by handicapped persons have been noted in user reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites are large and spacious, accommodating various camper sizes. Specific sites are noted for their size and views.
Sites PrivacyMany sites offer privacy, with space between campsites and natural tree cover. However, some tent-specific sites are less private.
Total Campsites97 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews recommend avoiding sites near high-traffic areas or those close to trails to maintain privacy.
Best CampsitesRecommended sites include 30, 34, 35, and 84; known for their lake views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum during any 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures multiple loops and sections, with a mix of electric and tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason closure not explicitly stated.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or via phone. $10 cancellation fee applies, along with any reservation fees. Late cancellations also forfeit one night's fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Bolding Mill include fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming, and hiking. The swim beach is accessible for all abilities, and there is a fishing pier. The playground and basketball courts provide land-based activities.
Hiking
The campground is near trails for walking and exploring, but detailed information about trail lengths or difficulty levels is not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with a pier available on-site. The lake offers several fishing spots, and campers have enjoyed fishing directly from their campsites.Swimming
Swimming is facilitated by a concrete beach area with ADA-accessibility. Some campers prefer less formal swimming spots in the lake near campsites.Biking
The campground’s paved roads offer opportunities for biking, especially for children and families.Boating
A boat ramp is available for easy access to Lake Lanier, and several campers reported enjoying power boating and kayaking.Beach activities
Beach activities are available at the concrete swim beach, though it is described as resembling a boat ramp. Small sandy areas unmarked on the map offer additional options.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are common activities, especially in calmer water conditions before 10 a.m.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not specified.
- Quiet hours are Starts at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards, water-related risks.
Active alertsNone explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Not explicitly stated.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but only in a central location, resulting in inconvenience for some campers. There are no recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Sidney Lanier with easy access to water activities.
Common complaintsMixed reviews about staff behavior, grass maintenance, and site upkeep.
HostHosts are described as both amazing and less accommodating, depending on the encounters.
Campground Map
4055 CHESTATEE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Atlanta, GA, take SR 400 north to Exit 17, turn right on GA Hwy 306, turn right on GA Hwy 53, turn left on Old Sardis Rd, and turn left on Chestatee Rd. Follow into campground.
Accessible from paved roads; no mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby supplies
Not explicitly stated.
Camper Reviews
4.4
594 reviews
Bolding Mill is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are split between positive feedback on the natural beauty, spacious campsites, and recreational opportunities, and criticism of poor maintenance, unfriendly staff, and inconsistent cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 594 reviews
What Campers Love
Many campers appreciate the large, private sites with lake views, the well-maintained grounds, and the opportunities for water-based activities. Campers also praise friendly hosts and the...
Based on 594 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on rude or unhelpful staff, lack of maintenance such as uncut grass or overflowing dumpsters, and issues with bathroom cleanliness. Some guests also experienced power outages and...
Based on 594 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing small bills for firewood and ice purchases, exploring less formal sandy beaches for swimming, and avoiding sites near bathrooms for more privacy. Specific site...
Based on 594 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Conditions are reportedly better in the spring, though some campers noted a decline in maintenance during the summer due to staffing shortages. Grass tends to be overgrown later in the season, and...
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Camper Quotes
"The sites are huge and wonderful," "We love Bolding Mill and always enjoy camping there," "The bathrooms/showers are clean and have awesome water pressure," "Beautiful views of the lake and quiet...
Based on 594 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 69 is notorious for lack of privacy due to foot traffic to the fishing pier. Site recommendations include 30, 34, and 35 for lake views. Site 22 is noted for being narrow with a large tree near...
Based on 594 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Mixed reviews on accessibility. While some facilities are ADA-accessible like the beach, others, like the restriction on golf carts for disabled persons, have caused frustration.
Based on 594 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Campers with pets generally find the campground accommodating. However, some noted a lack of dog waste stations, causing issues with pet waste on the grounds.
Based on 594 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025