Georgia / Hall County

Van Pugh South Day Use Facility

Closed — Currently closed. The facility operates Saturdays and Sundays only from 8 AM to 8 PM when open. Advance reservations required through Recreation.gov.

About

Van Pugh South Day Use Facility lies on the banks of Lake Sidney Lanier in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northern Georgia. This reservation-only day-use area features 54 individual picnic sites, many located directly on the water with spectacular lake views. The facility transitioned from overnight camping to day-use only and now operates exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays. Each site includes a picnic table, grill, and fire ring with dedicated parking. Select sites offer water and electric hookups. The facility provides flush toilets, shower facilities, drinking water, an accessible boat ramp, and a playground. The popular lake boasts nearly 700 miles of shoreline created in 1956 with the completion of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River. Dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine provide shade throughout the facility and abundant wildlife habitat. Lake Lanier offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and wakeboarding. Reservations must be made in advance through Recreation.gov, as payment is not accepted at the gatehouse. Each site is limited to 3 vehicles or 15 people. The reservation holder must check in first before guests are allowed entry. Camping is prohibited, and all day users must check out before 8 PM.

Directions

Take I-85 north to I-985, take Exit 8, turn left on Highway 347/Friendship Road. Turn right on McEver Road, then left on Gaines Ferry Road and follow signs to the facility.

Nearby Campgrounds