Though the southeastern part of Georgia is known for its coastal cities and highlands, in the north and west, lakes and mountains dominate the state’s landscape. Those looking for a slightly less salty vacation can head to one of the many towns situated on these lakes and enjoy the fishing and water activities they offer. Accommodations vary from upscale resorts to rental cabins, so all travelers can find what they’re looking for.
Perfect Towns For Your Georgia Lake Vacation
1. Lakemont, Georgia
Located on Lake Rabun in northeastern Georgia, Lakemont is a small unincorporated community where visitors can rent lakeside cottages. The quiet, rustic vibe is relaxing, and those who want to fill their days with activity have choices like hiking, white water rafting, boating, and fishing.
2. Greensboro, Georgia
An antebellum town stepped in tradition, Greensboro is the best of all worlds. Golf on one of the 10 championship golf courses, fish and boat in Lake Oconee, and sightsee and shop in the historic downtown area. When you need a treat to cool you off from the sun, head to Oconee Sweet Sensations for ice cream cones, milkshakes, splits, and floats.
3. Flowery Branch, Georgia
The fun of this Georgia town doesn’t stop with the name. Located on Lake Lanier, a reservoir in the north of the state, Flowery Branch is another historical southern town that mixes recreation with sightseeing. Rent a pontoon or kayaks to explore the lake or head to the picturesque downtown area. An added bonus: Flowery Branch (also the home to the Atlanta Falcons) is only 45 minutes outside of Atlanta, making quick weekends away from the big city almost effortless.
4. Pine Mountain, Georgia
Pine Mountain is most famous for being the home of Callaway Gardens, a resort complex with everything from a butterfly habitat, to a golf course, to walking and biking trails, and the world’s largest man-made, white sand beach. The beach stretches around Robin Lake, which has a floating playground, perfect for the younger members of the family. Those looking for something a little more relaxing can instead choose to visit F.D. Roosevelt State Park, which is home to Lake Delanor and also located in Pine Mountain.
5. Stone Mountain, Georgia
Stone Mountain Park, in the city of the same name, is one of Georgia’s most visited attractions. The lake inside the park is famous for its fishing, but there’s also hiking, golf, an adventure course, a laser light show, a scenic train and much more. Perhaps most notable is the Confederate Memorial Carving, the largest high-relief sculpture in the world carved into granite. The town is also just outside of Atlanta, making it ideal for weekend trips or those looking to explore multiple cities in Georgia.
6. Appling, Georgia
Alternately called Lake Strom Thurmond, Clarks Hill Lake is a reservoir just upstream from Augusta, bordering Georgia and South Carolina. It is home to Mistletoe State Park, which has both sandy beaches along the lake and miles of hiking and nature trails. The lake is a great place for bass fishing, and fishing tournaments are held there annually. Appling is also home to the oldest courthouse and Baptist church in the state.
This article was written by Isabella Sayyah.