Visitors began flocking to the newly-opened section of the Margaritaville RV Resort back in May. Located just up the hill from a lakeside waterpark that bears some resemblance to Disney’s old River Country, the new RV area starkly contrasts with the old campground. Jimmy Buffett’s company, Margaritaville, took over ownership and management of the water park, campground and other amenities at Lake Lanier Islands in 2018. Although it is high-end (pricey), the improved resort is well poised to become a true vacation destination just 30 minutes north of Atlanta.
Boats, Beaches, Bars, and Ballads
Lake Lanier Islands got its start in the 1970s with a hotel, riding stables, golf course, campground, and water-based recreation. A water park was added in 1987, becoming the largest in the southeast at the time. The next two decades brought more management changes, ongoing improvements and major renovations in the hotels and landscapes. Yet, the campground remained mostly unchanged, with its lakeside view of the Blue Ridge Mountains being its primary draw.
With the entry of Margaritaville, it’s a whole new day. The brand has infused vibrancy, food, concerts, and a carefree spirit of celebration to what was once a sleepy getaway. The Landshark Bar and Grill feels like it is straight out of Key West, and an $80 per person Margarita Cruise (Saturdays) invites you to “waste away” with six drink tickets (and food) during its three-hour tour. A two-hour Sunday brunch cruise includes bottomless mimosas at $45. In addition to a concert series, monthly Full Moon parties are held that include a fireworks show.
This is nearly FIVE-STAR CAMPING
The first section of the new campground opened in the spring, and consists of brand new 30-50 foot concrete pads with lakeside or lakeview sites. Most of the RVs there this summer were large deluxe Class As, fifth wheels and travel trailers, along with a few hybrids. Pop-ups and tents are not allowed.
At first glance, I was disappointed to see the lack of trees between the sites. Is this just one big tailgate party? Then I realized that this provided a lake view for every site, and I noticed that the shoreline trees posed no threat to the campers in the event of the storm. And y’all know I hate thunder and lightening. Campers were busy cooking out, riding around the islands on rented golf carts, and interacting with one another – far more than at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. My friends and I were struck by how very happy every single person appeared to be. Maybe even happier than the people at the happiest place on earth.
Rates vary from $60 to $90 per night, depending on season (summer is peak), and type of campsite. All sites are full hook-up and include a firepit, grill, and picnic table. A picturesque dock sits down the hill for those who bring their own boat. Included in the nightly price is access to Paradise Beach (open seasonally) and discount passes to the water park. Regular water park prices range from $32 to $46 daily, although there are frequent specials, including buy-one-get-one-free days.
Expansion of the campground is continuing into the next section, and will eventually include renovation of all of the old campground. An in-ground pool (in addition to the nearby water park) dedicated to the RV resort is in the plans. We also discovered a few very hip modular cabins that look like they are ready to be installed.
all summer long
Because of cooler temperatures in north Georgia, I think that May through July are probably the best times to go. August is hotter than the devil’s toenails. The water park is open daily throughout summer, and on weekends in May and September. However, fall and spring bring their seasonal colors, and provide for better opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and a more tranquil existence. In the winter, the Margaritaville water park transforms into a winter wonderland. Of course, there’s the famous drive-through lights, but last year a large sledding hill (faux snow) was added. It even has a conveyer belt to slide us back to the top.
other recreational activities
While I don’t see Lake Lanier RV Resort as quite a week-long getaway, I think it is much more than a stop-off on the way to Florida. My ideal would be 3-4 nights. In addition to cooking, reading, and the water park, there’s plenty to do beyond lazing away the days.
- Horseback riding/stables
- Golfing
- Boat rentals
- Trails
- Zip lines
- Energy watersports
what we love most about lanier island margaritaville
So, I’ve been going to Lake Lanier Islands since I was a kid. And although I stayed at the campground years ago, I’ve become a summer regular at dreamy Legacy Lodge. This year changed all of that, and I’m already planning a fall family trip to the new campground. Here’s why:
- The waterpark reminds me a lot of River Country. It’s based around a lake, but this one is clean, clear and lacks alligators. The park is not so big that you can’t find your kids.
- There is such a laid back vibe. When we went to visit the stables, two donkeys approached me and followed me around. The staff said, “don’t worry about them – they are free range.”
- It’s luxury without breaking the bank. Yes, $90 is a lot for a campsite, but most activities and food are somewhat reasonable.
- It’s immaculately clean. Not a pop-top in sight to step on.
- There’s just enough people, but not too many people on the islands. And it’s never too early and never too late. When Jimmy Buffet sang, “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere,” that somewhere may just as well be Lake Lanier Islands.
getting there
Lake Lanier Islands is about a 15-minute journey off of I-85, 30 miles or so north of Atlanta. This makes it about a 7-hour drive from Disney World.
