Lakes In Georgia Map

If you are looking for a vacation that offers scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, history, and culture, then Georgia’s lakes will provide you with all of this and more. With countless lakes scattered throughout the state, each with its own unique attractions, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Georgia. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of some of the top lakes in Georgia and show you what makes each one so special.

Top Attractions

When it comes to top attractions in Georgia’s lakes, there is no shortage of options. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular attractions include:

Stone Mountain Park

Located on the shores of Stone Mountain Lake, this park is home to the world’s largest exposed granite monolith. Visitors can hike to the top for breathtaking views, take a train ride around the mountain, or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Callaway Gardens

A 2,500-acre resort on the shores of Robin Lake, Callaway Gardens offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, biking, golfing, and fishing. The resort also has a butterfly conservatory, an indoor beach, and a variety of dining options.

Amicalola Falls State Park

Located on the shores of Amicalola Lake, this state park is home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls for stunning views or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in Georgia’s lakes. These are some of the lesser-known, but equally beautiful, spots:

Unicoi State Park

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Unicoi State Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can also stay in one of the park’s cabins or campsites for a truly immersive experience.

Hard Labor Creek State Park

Located on the shores of Hard Labor Creek Lake, this state park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and boating, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

Tugaloo State Park

Located on the shores of Lake Hartwell, Tugaloo State Park is a quiet oasis that offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also stay in one of the park’s cabins or campsites for an overnight getaway.

Food Scene

Georgia’s lakes are not just about outdoor adventures and scenic beauty – they also offer a vibrant food scene that is sure to please any palate. Some of the best places to eat near Georgia’s lakes include:

The Blue Willow Inn

Located in Social Circle, The Blue Willow Inn is a popular spot for Southern-style comfort food. The restaurant serves up classics like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens, and is known for its friendly service and cozy atmosphere.

The Dillard House

Located in Dillard, The Dillard House is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up Southern-style cuisine for over 100 years. The restaurant is known for its all-you-can-eat meals, which include dishes like fried chicken, country ham, and biscuits and gravy.

The Smith House

Located in Dahlonega, The Smith House is a historic inn and restaurant that has been serving up Southern-style cuisine for over 100 years. The restaurant is known for its fried chicken, country ham, and homemade biscuits, and is a popular spot for Sunday brunch.

Budget-Friendly Tips

While Georgia’s lakes offer plenty of luxurious resorts and high-end restaurants, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options for those on a tight budget. Some tips for saving money include:

Camping

Many of Georgia’s state parks offer campsites for as little as $20 per night. Camping is a great way to experience the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

Picnicking

Many of Georgia’s parks and beaches offer picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery. Pack a lunch and enjoy a budget-friendly day out.

Happy Hour

Many of Georgia’s restaurants and bars offer happy hour specials, where visitors can enjoy discounted appetizers and drinks. Check local listings for the best deals.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love outdoor adventure, Georgia’s lakes offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Some of the best outdoor activities include:

Hiking

Georgia’s lakes are surrounded by miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. Some of the best trails include the Appalachian Trail, the Pine Mountain Trail, and the Bartram Trail.

Fishing

Georgia’s lakes are home to a wide variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and trout. Visitors can fish from shore or rent a boat for a day on the water.

Boating

Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, Georgia’s lakes offer a variety of boating options. Visitors can rent equipment or bring their own for a day of fun on the water.

Family-Friendly Activities

Georgia’s lakes are a great place to bring the whole family, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Some of the best family-friendly activities include:

Beaches

Many of Georgia’s lakes offer sandy beaches where kids can swim, build sandcastles, and play in the sun. Some of the best beaches include Lake Lanier Beach and Water Park and Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens.

Water Parks

For a day of fun in the sun, head to one of Georgia’s water parks. Some of the best options include Six Flags White Water and Hurricane Harbor at Lake Lanier Islands.

Mini Golf

For a fun and budget-friendly activity, try mini golf at one of Georgia’s many courses. Some of the best options include Glow Golf and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you are looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in Georgia’s lakes. Some unique options include:

Georgia Guidestones

Located in Elberton, the Georgia Guidestones are a mysterious monument that some believe hold the key to humanity’s future. Visitors can explore the site and try to decipher the messages inscribed on the stones.

Moonshine Distilleries

For a taste of Georgia’s history, visit one of the many moonshine distilleries in the area. Some of the best options include Moonrise Distillery and Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery.

Ghost Tours

For a spooky adventure, take a ghost tour of one of Georgia’s many historic towns. Some of the best options include the Dahlonega Ghost Tour and the Savannah Ghost Tour.

Natural Wonders

Georgia’s lakes are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. Some of the best options include:

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Located on the shores of Tallulah Lake, Tallulah Gorge State Park offers breathtaking views of the Tallulah Gorge, a 1,000-foot-deep canyon carved by the Tallulah River. Visitors can hike to the bottom of the gorge for a truly immersive experience.

Providence Canyon State Park

Located on the shores of Lake Walter F. George, Providence Canyon State Park is home to some of the most unique geological formations in the country. Visitors can hike through the canyon and marvel at the vibrant colors of the rock formations.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Located on the shores of Lake Burton, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a vast wilderness area that offers hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the many waterfalls and scenic drives in the area.

Vibrant Nightlife

For those looking for a night out on the town, Georgia’s lakes offer plenty of options for a fun and lively nightlife. Some of the best options include:

Lake Lanier Islands

Located on the shores of Lake Lanier, Lake Lanier Islands is a resort that offers a variety of nightlife options, including live music, bars, and nightclubs.