There are no natural lakes in Georgia, but there are a bunch of man-made lakes so it’s hard to choose which to visit.
So we put together this list of the best lakes in the state, so you can go on the ultimate lakes road trip in Georgia and make memories to last a lifetime.
Everyone has different preferences, but there’s definitely going to be something in here for you.
Make sure to read to the end because we tell you which lakes are best for different categories, so you know which ones will be the perfect match for you.
1. Lake Allatoona
Lake Allatoona, about 37 miles from Atlanta in northwestern Georgia, spreads across 12,000 acres with 270 miles of shoreline to explore.
It’s famous for boating, fishing for striped and spotted bass, and hanging out at Red Top Mountain State Park, which has over 15 miles of trails and a beach.
This lake supplies water to nearby cities and features eight marinas where you can rent pontoons or jet skis for a full day on the water.
2. Blue Ridge Lake
Next up is Blue Ridge Lake, set in the North Georgia mountains just outside the charming town of Blue Ridge.
This 3,290-acre lake offers gorgeous views, with crystal-clear water, rolling hills, and the iconic 1,000-foot-long Blue Ridge Dam for great photos.
You can rent a pontoon at Lake Blue Ridge Marina, cast for smallmouth bass, or hit the nearby Appalachian Trail if you’re feeling extra adventurous.
3. Lake Burton
After Blue Ridge Lake, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Lake Burton, one of the state’s clearest and most scenic mountain lakes.
Spanning 2,775 acres with 62 miles of shoreline, this spot is perfect for wakeboarding, tubing, or grabbing lunch at the popular LaPrade’s Marina.
The lake sits at 1,866 feet above sea level and is fed by the Tallulah River, so the water stays refreshingly cool even in the middle of summer.
4. Lake Rabun
Next up is Lake Rabun, known for its winding shape and cozy mountain setting.
This 835-acre lake stretches like a long, squiggly ribbon, great for paddleboarding, kayaking, or cruising in a vintage wooden boat.
During the famous Fourth of July boat parade, these boats are decked out with flags, lights, and creative themes that make the whole lake come alive.
With amazing spots like the Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant nearby, you can grab a meal and stay overnight without leaving the forested shoreline.
5. Lake Hartwell
After Lake Rabun, head over to Lake Hartwell—one of the largest lakes in the Southeast, straddling the Georgia-South Carolina border.
Covering a whopping 56,000 acres with 962 miles of shoreline, it’s a great spot for chasing catfish, crappie, or largemouth bass.
The lake is also home to the Lake Hartwell Dam and Big Oaks Recreation Area, where you can picnic, swim, and watch boats cruising by all day.
6. Clarks Hill Lake
Next on the route is Clarks Hill Lake (also called Lake Strom Thurmond), located on the Savannah River along the Georgia-South Carolina border.
This giant lake covers 71,100 acres with over 1,200 miles of shoreline, making it a go-to for camping, sailing, and spotting bald eagles soaring over the water.
💡The best time to spot bald eagles at Clarks Hill Lake is during the winter months when the population is larger.
Check out Mistletoe State Park on the Georgia side for shady campsites, hiking trails like the 0.33-mile Canyon Trail Loop, and beautiful lake views.
7. Lake Oconee
Next up is Lake Oconee, a sparkling reservoir that’s halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, providing a perfect nature escape for locals in both cities.
Spanning 19,000 acres with 374 miles of shoreline, it’s packed with golf courses and luxury resorts like The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds.
Its calm, smooth waters are ideal for paddleboarding, pontoon cruising, or casting for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.
For a serious dose of adrenaline, the nearby Jumping Rock is a local favorite for cliff jumping.
8. George L. Smith State Park
Next up is George L. Smith State Park, a totally different kind of lake stop located near Twin City.
The 412-acre mill pond is famous for its still, blackwater reflections and the hauntingly beautiful bald cypress trees that rise straight out of the water.
It might not be for everyone, but nobody can deny that it’s unique.
Hop in a kayak or canoe to glide through the trees, spot herons and turtles, and see the historic 1880s Parrish Mill and covered bridge by the shoreline.
9. Laura S Walker Lake
After paddling at George L. Smith, continue south to Laura S. Walker Lake, set inside Laura S. Walker State Park just outside Waycross.
This 120-acre lake lies on the edge of the Okefenokee Swamp, so you might spot alligators, sandhill cranes, or even gopher tortoises while fishing or paddling.
The park also has easy hikes like the Big Creek Nature Trail and shady picnic spots to unwind after a day on the water.
It’s also home to “The Lakes”, a championship 18-hole golf course that’s perfect for those who are craving a round.
10. Walter F George Reservoir
Wrap up your trip at Walter F. George Reservoir (or Lake Eufaula), which straddles the Georgia-Alabama line along the Chattahoochee River.
This 45,181-acre lake with 640 miles of shoreline is popular for trophy largemouth bass fishing and epic sunrise views from Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge.
Stop by Florence Marina State Park on the Georgia side for boat rentals, birdwatching, and a front-row seat to gorgeous sunsets over the water.
Best Georgia Lakes for Every Kind of Adventure
Not sure which lakes are best for you?
Here’s a quick guide to help you find the perfect match based on what you’re looking for.
🚤 Best for Boating
- Lake Allatoona – Eight marinas with rentals and plenty of space to explore.
- Lake Hartwell – Ideal for long boat rides with nearly 1,000 miles of shoreline.
- Lake Rabun – Perfect for cruising in vintage wooden boats during summer parades.
- Lake Oconee – Calm waters, ideal for pontoon cruising and paddleboarding.
🎣 Best for Fishing
- Lake Hartwell – Known for trophy catfish, crappie, and largemouth bass.
- Walter F. George Lake (Lake Eufaula) – Famous for bass fishing.
- Lake Allatoona – Great for striped and spotted bass.
- Lake Blue Ridge – Home to smallmouth bass.
- Lake Oconee – Offers a solid mix of bass, catfish, and crappie.
🏕️ Best for Camping
- Clarks Hill Lake (Lake Strom Thurmond) – Shady, spacious campsites at Mistletoe State Park.
- Lake Hartwell – Multiple recreation areas that are ideal for overnight stays.
- George L. Smith State Park – Peaceful, scenic camping with cypress views.
- Laura S. Walker Lake – Quiet campsites with nature trails and wildlife nearby.
🏞️ Best for Mountain Views
- Lake Blue Ridge – Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic peaks.
- Lake Burton – One of Georgia’s most scenic mountain lakes.
- Lake Rabun – Tucked into the North Georgia mountains with cozy forest vibes.
🌊 Best for Crystal Clear Water
- Lake Blue Ridge – Known for its pristine, clear water.
- Lake Burton – Fed by the Tallulah River, stays cool and clear even in summer.
🐦 Best for Wildlife Watching
- Clarks Hill Lake – Spot bald eagles soaring over the lake in winter.
- George L. Smith State Park – Paddle among herons, turtles, and bald cypress trees.
- Laura S. Walker Lake – Near the Okefenokee Swamp, with alligators and gopher tortoises.
- Walter F. George Lake – Watch birds at Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge.
👨👩👧👦 Best for Families
- Lake Allatoona – Red Top Mountain State Park offers trails and a swimming beach.
- Lake Oconee – Smooth waters and Jumping Rock are perfect for fun family outings.
- Laura S. Walker Lake – Golf, hikes, and easy paddling for all ages.
✨ Best for Luxury and Relaxation
- Lake Oconee – Home to The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds and several top-tier golf courses.
- Lake Rabun – Stay lakeside at the charming Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant.
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