North Georgia is home to an abundance of beautiful mountain lakes. Lake Rabun, Lake Burton, Lake Chatuge, Lake Hartwell, and Lake Lanier are only a few on the lengthy list. These lakes offer visitors pristine waters, deep swimming holes, outstanding fishing and unrivaled views.
Cool off swimming at the lake during the spring and summer, view the spectacular fall foliage by boat during autumn or cozy up by a fire on the banks and take in the peaceful, glass-like water surface during winter. If you are still looking for things to while you’re visiting the emerald waters, read through our list of the best things to do on the lakes of North Georgia!
Rent a Boat or Jet Ski
If you don’t own a boat, it is time to rent one and find out what lake life really has to offer. LaPrade’s Marina on Lake Burton is an excellent place to start. Lake Burton is a large lake in North Georgia, spanning over 2,700 acres with 62 miles of shoreline. It is known as one of the most pristine lakes in the United States. When you have your own boat rental, you can spend the whole day on the water swimming, exploring, fishing and sunbathing!
If fun and speed is more your style, try a jet ski rental from North Georgia Watersports on Lake Nottely. Jet skis can cruise at 35-55 MPH with excellent maneuverability for quick turns and bursts, and they fit 1-2 people each.
Take a Sailboat Sunset Cruise
Sail into the sunset with a cocktail in hand on the massive Lake Lanier. The Lake Lanier Charter Sailboat Sunset Cruise is an excellent opportunity to experience sailing without all the stress of putting in the work yourself. An experienced captain will take you and your loved ones on a relaxing adventure through peaceful waters. Watch the sun set on the horizon as the calming breeze blows.
Hire Fishing Guide Charters
Carters Lake, a reservoir located on the Coosawattee River, is the deepest lake in the state of Georgia and it boasts some of the best fishing in the state as well! Carters Lake Fishing Charters provides visitors with the opportunity to catch their very own record-holding fish. The company offers top of the line fishing boats, expert guide services, high-quality fishing tackle and the finest marine equipment around. The company also books charters on Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier.
Kayaking, canoeing and SUPing the North Georgia lakes is one of the best ways to take in the scenery while you bask in the sun. Bring a fishing pole and a picnic and spend the day on the water. If you don’t have your own kayak, canoe or SUP board, rent one at Lake Blue Ridge Outfitters. Rentals come with a life vest, paddle and board.
Try SUP Yoga
Stand Up Paddle Boarding is a challenge in itself, but have you ever attempted SUP Yoga? Take your fitness to new heights with Hanalei Sup Yoga on the North Georgia waters of Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona or Lake Acworth. Enjoy a laid-back getaway during the 60-90 minute SUP Yoga classes— de-stress from your busy day in the gorgeous outdoors while you challenge your body at the same time. Let tension melt away and be replaced with energy, empowerment and laughter.
Camp at the Highest Lake in Georgia
Lake Conasauga is the highest lake in Georgia at an elevation of 3,150 feet above sea level. It is located near Grassy Mountain. The Lake Conasauga Campground has camping units directly on the lake and in the surrounding forested area. There are restrooms with running water close by the campsites and each site has its own tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. The campground has 35 family camping spaces that fill up quickly, so be sure to get there early as it is a first-come, first-serve campground! There is also a day-use area near the campground with hiking trails, a swimming area, grills, group shelters and more restrooms.
Hike the Lula Lake Land Trust
The Lula Lake Land Trust is home to one of North Georgia’s most beautiful lakes. There are also some spectacular waterfalls on the property. Spending the day hiking around the lake is the perfect way to take it all in. The land trust has over six miles of trails that can be used for hiking or trail running. The property is only open to the public on the first and last Saturday of every month by reservation, so you should plan ahead in order to catch a glimpse of this coveted outdoor haven. The trust is dedicated to preserving the natural and historic landscapes in the area and asks that visitors respect their conservation efforts.
