15 Best Lakes in Georgia You Need to Explore
Georgians, it’s time to get out and explore our state! There are so many amazing lakes just waiting for us to discover them. These 15 lakes in Georgia offer something for everyone like kayaking, jet skiing, boating, fishing, camping, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or want to take on some exciting outdoor activities, these lakes have it all. So pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the best lakes in Georgia!
Top 15 Lakes in Georgia Worth Exploring
1. Lake Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge has a lot to offer including beautiful cabins, breweries, restaurants, and hiking trails. This lake is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the north Georgia mountains. Lake Blue Ridge is a must-see for any nature lover with its clear waters and stunning views.
And if you’re looking for some adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby. Here are some of my favorite places in the area:
Tray Mountain
The hike to Tray Mountain is a great option for those looking for a challenge. This 8-mile trek takes you up to the summit of Tray Mountain, providing amazing views of the surrounding area.
Morganton Point Recreation Area
This recreation area is a great place to enjoy everything the lake has to offer. There are campsites, a beach area, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and beautiful mountain views.
2. Lake Lanier
Lake Lanier is the largest lake in the state with nearly 700 miles of shoreline. It’s such a great place to enjoy some water sports. The lake is home to different marinas, which offer boat and jet ski rentals.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can also take a cruise around the lake on one of the many tour boats.
3. Lake Chatuge
Lake Chatuge is located on the border of Georgia and South Carolina. It is a great place to spend a weekend camping!
The lake offers many different campgrounds, which offer everything from basic campsites to RV hookups.
And if you’re looking for a little excitement, the lake is home to a number of different fishing tournaments.
4. Lake Allatoona
Lake Allatoona is a beautiful lake in Georgia that has been the site for many fun activities such as fishing, swimming, and water-skiing. In addition, the surrounding areas have excellent choices of restaurants where you can enjoy some great food while taking in views from this picturesque body of water!
Be sure to stop by Red Top Mountain State Park while you’re here—it’s one of the beautiful state parks that Georgia has to offer! There are hiking trails, picnic areas, boat ramps, and a swimming beach that you can enjoy in the summer months.
5. Lake Burton
Lake Burton is a hidden gem in the North Georgia mountains. The lake has different fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and trout. The lake has crystal clear waters, making for perfect fishing conditions and breathtaking views of surrounding ridges!
Lake Burton is a great place for fishing. So, make sure to bring your rods and tackle boxes.
6. Lake Oconee
Lake Oconee, located in the much-maligned state of Georgia, is a perfect spot for water enthusiasts. In this large body of clear blue held by a flourished with white caps and surrounded on three sides by hillsides covered in pine trees, it’s easy to see why people love coming here so much!
It’s also home base when you want some time off; there are plenty of facilities available, including shops where one can buy new swimwear before taking their boat out onto those sparkling waters again.
7. Lake Hartwell
This large reservoir was created by the damming of the Savannah River and is now one of the most popular lakes in Georgia.
The sparkling waters of Lake Hartwell are one of the many reasons to visit this amazing lake that’s located on the border of Georgia and South Carolina. The lake stretches for over 20 miles and has over 900 miles of shoreline, offering boaters plenty of opportunities to explore its shores.
8. Lake Rabun
Lake Rabun is a pristine mountain lake located in Georgia’s northeast corner. The lake is known for its clear, cold waters and is a popular fishing, swimming, and boating destination.
The surrounding area is also home to many hiking trails, which offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
9. Lake Sinclair
Lake Sinclair is a large reservoir located in central Georgia. The lake is home to different fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.
It’s not very large, but there are many activities you can enjoy on this popular lake such as boating or fishing trips with friends and family!
10. Lake Seminole
Lake Seminole, located in the middle of Georgia’s western region known as Piedmont, is a popular destination for boaters and fishers. The clear waters make it easy to see all sorts of fish, from bass or catfish, down below.
While water royalty enjoys standing up on shoreline areas where they can watch their creations swim by during tranquil evenings under stars. The lake’s sandy bottom creates perfect conditions to fish, swim, or boat all year long!
11. Carters Lake
Carters Lake, located in the north-central part of Georgia, is a popular fishing, swimming, and boating destination. The lake has many different fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.
The surrounding area is also home to some hiking trails, which offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
12. High Falls Lake
This low-key lake is the perfect place to splash around with friends and family during a day of fishing, swimming, or just enjoying nature. The waterfalls that adorn its shores add an extra element for adventure seekers.
13. Lake Russell
The pristine beauty of Lake Russell in the heartland has captivated people for generations. It is one such place where you can enjoy an idyllic day with your loved ones or camp out near its shores if it’s just you on vacation!
With a Georgia state park (the George L. Smith Jr. State Park) and a Corps of Engineers campground, there are plenty of places to enjoy the fishing, swimming, and boating that this lake has to offer.
14. Nottely Lake
Nottely Lake is a picturesque, 5,000-acre reservoir located in Georgia’s northeast corner. This little Lake packs quite an emotional punch with its turquoise blue waters, soft white sand beach, and lush surrounding forest that hugs its shores.
While fishing, you can reel in some bass, trout, crappie, catfish, and more with a little bit of patience. Boat rentals are available at the marina if you want to explore more of this scenic lake!
15. Lake Acworth
Lake Acworth is a beautiful 1,500-acre reservoir located in north-central Georgia. The Lake Acworth is a hidden gem in the heart of Georgia. It’s surrounded by nature and has something for everyone!
From fishing, swimming, or just relaxing on one side to hearty campsites with fire pits where you can cook up your next great meal over an open flame. You are sure to fall in love with this lake just as so many others have over the years!
Tips for Visiting Georgia Lakes
Here are a few tips to make your visit to these lakes even more enjoyable:
- Pets: Be sure to keep your pets on a leash at all times and clean up after them.
- Sunscreen: Make sure to wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, so be sure to pack insect repellent if needed.
- Fishing License: If you plan to fish at any of these lakes, be sure to have a valid Georgia fishing license.
- Swimming: Be aware of the dangers of swimming in open water, and always swim in designated areas.
- Boating: Make sure you obey all boating regulations when on the lake.
- Hiking: Be sure to wear proper shoes and clothing when hiking, and always stay on the designated trails.
- Wildlife: Be aware of your surroundings, and do not harass or disturb any of the wildlife you may encounter.
- Trash: Please pack out what you bring in, and leave the lake and surrounding areas clean for others to enjoy.
- Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to stay safe while enjoying the lakes.
FAQs
What is the cleanest lake in Georgia?
One of Georgia’s cleanest lakes is Lake Allatoona located in Acworth. The lake provides drinking water for the surrounding area. So you can feel safe swimming in the water and sun bathing along the beach!
What is the bluest lake in Georgia?
The bluest lake in Georgia is a small mountain lake located in the northeast corner of the state called High Falls Lake. This lovely little lake is known for its beautiful blue-green algae and crystal clear waters. So if you’re looking for a place to take a dip and cool off in the hot Georgia sun, High Falls Lake is definitely worth checking out!
What is the most beautiful lake view in Georgia?
There are so many stunning lakes in Georgia with majestic views. However, some of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring lake views in Georgia are Carters Lake, High Falls Lake, and Lake Russell. These lakes offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests simply breathtaking. So, if you’re looking for a place to take in the natural beauty of Georgia, then be sure to check out one of these amazing lakes!
What is the largest lake in Georgia?
Lake Lanier is the largest lake in Georgia and one of the most popular lakes in the southeast United States. This massive artificial reservoir is over 39,000 acres in size and offers various recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and skiing. So if you’re looking for a lake with plenty of room to explore, Lake Lanier is definitely worth checking out!
What is the smallest lake in Georgia?
The smallest lake in Georgia is Seed lake. This tiny, 240-acre lake is located in the northeast corner of the state and is a popular spot for fishing. Seed Lake is worth checking out for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded fishing experience.
What is the deepest lake in Georgia?
Some of the deepest lakes in Georgia include Lake Burton, Lake Lanier, and Carters Lake. These lakes are known for their deep and clear waters, making them perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. So if you want to enjoy some of the best fishing in Georgia, be sure to check out one of these amazing lakes.
What are the best lakes for fishing in Georgia?
Some of the best lakes for fishing in Georgia include High Falls Lake, Carters Lake, and Nottely Lake. These lakes are known for their plentiful and diverse fish populations, including bass, trout, catfish, and crappie. So don’t miss your chance to reel in the big one at one of these amazing lakes!
What is the highest lake in Georgia?
The highest lake in Georgia is Brasstown Bald Mountain Lake. This beautiful, alpine lake is located on top of Brasstown Bald, the tallest mountain in Georgia. At an elevation of 4,784 feet, this lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. So if you’re looking for a breathtaking hiking experience combined with a fishing trip, Brasstown Bald Mountain Lake is worth checking out!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy nature’s beauty, be sure to check out one of these amazing Georgia lakes!
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