Top Lakes to Visit in Georgia

June 1, 20233 min read

Lake Lanier | Credit: Brandon Carson

To seek refuge from Georgia’s notorious summer heat, unwind at one of the state’s picturesque lakes. Let’s take a brief look at the best lakes to visit in Georgia.

Lake Burton

Lake Burton, in north Georgia, is a must-see in the summer. This scenic lake has campgrounds, picnic areas, boat launches, and more. Timpson Cove Park, which includes a beach, swimming areas, picnic tables, and restrooms, is a particularly pleasant area along the lake that fills up with visitors on warm days. Lake Burton is also a top summer home destination for many Georgia residents thanks to incredible waterfront real estate.

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier is a sprawling reservoir near Atlanta that serves as a popular weekend day trip. This scenic lake is known for its excellent fishing, laid-back beaches, good water sports conditions, and lakeside water park. Boaters can access the lake via several launches along the water.

Lake Lanier | Credit: Timothy Dachraoui

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee, located between Atlanta and Augusta, is a serene, under-the-radar destination. It has a rustic natural setting surrounded by thick forests, championship golf courses, and cabins and lodges for overnight visitors. The picturesque area has a luxurious atmosphere that attracts visitors for weddings, conferences, and romantic getaways.

Lake Rabun

At roughly 835 acres, Lake Rabun is a relatively small lake. Located in a valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this gorgeous lake is the ideal place for those who want to avoid the crowds. Visitors can get on the lake from boat ramps, swim in the deep blue waters, or relax and picnic at one of the lake’s shoreline recreation areas.

Tallulah Falls Lake

The 63-acre Tallulah Falls Lake is in Tallulah Gorge State Park, a popular destination for hikers and bikers. This quiet and pleasant lake has plenty to see and do, and fishing, swimming, and boating are just a few of its popular activities. You’ll also find tennis courts, a large campground, picnic areas, and more along the water’s edge.

Tallulah Falls Lake | Credit: James Morden

Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona covers over 12,000 acres of land and has 270 miles of scenic shoreline. This vast lake is one of the most popular in the state, and millions of people visit it each year. Numerous campgrounds dot the areas surrounding Lake Allatoona, and marinas located along its shores offer boat rentals, sales, services, and storage.

Lake Blackshear

Lake Blackshear is an expansive artificial lake with plenty of outdoor fun to offer and a nearby resort with a high-end golf course. Boating, water skiing, and swimming in this tranquil lake are common activities. Housing bass, crappie, and catfish populations, the lake is also popular for fishing.

Lake Seminole

Lake Seminole, a wildlife lover’s dream, is an artificial lake along the border with Florida. Not only is there an abundance of freshwater fish, but you’ll also spot an array of bird species and a large alligator population.