Best Georgia Lakes to Buy Lakefront Property

Georgia is quickly becoming one of the top states to live in, with a lower-than-average cost of living and an eclectic mix of urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles. Atlanta is the state’s modern culture, amenities, and cuisine epicenter. A short drive away lies the state’s natural beauty, from mountains to the Coastal Plains, and with it, plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. 

Thanks to Georgia’s numerous artificial reservoirs, the state has excellent bass, trout, and fly fishing. Its deep and wide lakes attract vacationers from all around the country. They’re also home to some of Georgia’s premiere waterfront properties, from vacant lots to sprawling custom estates and everything in between. 

If you’re considering buying waterfront property in Georgia, here are six of the top lakes to consider!

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier, named after the local poet Sidney Lanier, is a man-made reservoir maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. Created in 1956 with the construction of the Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River, it flooded forests, farmland, and the former town of Oscarville. As one of the largest lakes in Georgia, it spans over 38,000 acres and boasts 692 miles of shoreline.

Situated in northeastern Georgia, about 50 miles from Atlanta, Lake Lanier is primarily located in Hall and Forsyth counties, with parts extending into Dawson, Gwinnett, and Lumpkin. The lake borders multiple counties, making it an accessible destination for various recreational activities. Significant nearby cities include Gainesville, Dawsonville, Cumming, and Flowery Branch. The southern shoreline is more developed due to its proximity to I-985, facilitating easy travel to Atlanta or the Appalachian Mountains.

Lake Lanier is a top getaway destination, attracting visitors from across the United States. The lake is surrounded by numerous parks that offer camping, hiking, biking, and sightseeing opportunities. On the water, activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and waterskiing are popular. The lake features nine marinas, each providing boat rental and storage, along with other amenities. Additionally, there are 23 swim-friendly beaches along the shores.

Visitors to Lake Lanier often feel a sense of serenity and seclusion, as the lake’s scenic landscapes provide a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For accommodations, Lake Lanier offers a range of options, including the Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabins, which provides upscale cabins and an RV park. Other attractions include the Margaritaville Resort and Waterpark at Lake Lanier Islands, Legacy Lodge Resort Hotel, Screaming Eagle Adventure Park, and the annual Atlanta Hong Kong Dragonboat Festival. Lake Lanier is also famous for hosting one of the largest Christmas light displays in the world, the Magical Nights of Lights. During the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, it was the venue for water races, such as rowing events.

The developed coastline of Lake Lanier features waterfront properties ranging from lots to condos and townhomes, with most homes being single-family residences. As of the publication of this article, prices ranged from $233,000 for a 900 sq ft, two-bed, 1.5-bath home to a 17,700 sq ft construction featuring six bedrooms and 9.5+ bathrooms listed at $7,995,000.

Lake Allatoona

To the west of Lake Lanier is another reservoir maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, Allatoona Lake. It was created after the construction of the Allatoona Dam on the Etowah River in 1949. It is smaller than Lake Lanier, only covering about 18.7 sq mi with 270 miles of shoreline.

The three major cities built around the lake are Emerson, Cartersville, Acworth, and Canton. The lake sits in both Bartow and Cherokee counties, with a small section extending into Cobb County. Despite being only 35 miles northwest of Atlanta, significant development around the lake is sparse, thanks to several extensive parklands and campgrounds. The Corps of Engineers owns 25,000 acres of public lands around the lake. It remains a quiet, remote location where visitors come to escape the city hustle.

The Corps operates seven campgrounds on the lake: Clark Creek, McCaskey Creek, McKinney, Old Highway 41, Payne, Sweetwater, and Victoria. Several other public and private campgrounds are available, including sites in Red Top Mountain State Park, Unicoi State Park, and First Landing State Park.

Naturally, boating is a popular pastime on Lake Allatoona, with eight marinas and two yacht clubs operating on the lake, alongside 15 boat ramps maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. Boat rentals are available from Allatoona Landing and Holiday Harbor.

The nearby towns provide opportunities for shopping and entertainment. Stop by the Visitor’s Center for detailed information on some and more of the following attractions: the Adairsville Historic Register, the Barstow History Museum, the Cherokee County Museum, and the Etowah Indian Mounds. There’s also the Booth Western Art Museum, Tellus Science Museum, and the Terminus Wake Park.

Less development means fewer opportunities for properties and homes. However, Allatoona Lake does have some. In August 2022, there were vacant lots ranging in price from $55,800 to $11,400,000. Homes here range from an 800 sq ft cottage with one bedroom and one bathroom listed at $75,000 to $2,245,000 for a large four-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom property.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee, while a small 30 sq mi body of water with around 370 miles of shoreline, is the second largest lake in Georgia, located about halfway between Atlanta and Augusta. It sits within Morgan, Greene, and Putnam counties, with the three biggest towns nearby being Greensboro, Milledgeville, and Eatonton. The reservoir was created when Georgia Power constructed the Wallace Dam on the Oconee River in 1979.

As with the previously listed lakes, locals and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and more at Lake Oconee. The northern lake area is surrounded by the Oconee National Forest, offering nature trails and scenic beauty. There are ten marinas providing boat storage and rental, catering to those interested in boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, or jet skiing at Oconee Wild Watersports.

One of Lake Oconee’s biggest attractions is its seven expansive golf courses, complete with luxury, resort-quality amenities and dining options. Reynolds at Lake Oconee is the top golf destination in the area, featuring 117 holes across 16 acres designed by legendary names like Jones, Fazio, Engh, Nicklaus, and Cupp. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds at Lake Oconee offers a luxury resort known for its spacious rooms and private balconies, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of golf. Additionally, Lake Oconee offers a range of upscale amenities, including a 27,000-square-foot spa, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. The lake area also boasts diverse and high-quality local cuisine, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

Lake Oconee is also a family-friendly spot, featuring local gift shops that add to its charm as a vacation destination. Several luxury living communities are located on and around the lake. In August 2022, lakefront homes were listed from $349,000 for a two-bed, two-bath cottage to $5,499,000 for a newly constructed five-bed, 5.5-bath home. Vacant residential lots ranged in price from $49,500 to $3,500,000.

Lake Hartwell

Named for the folkloric Revolutionary War hero Nancy Hart, Lake Hartwell was formed after the creation of the dam of the same name built in 1962 by the US Army Corps of Engineers. It sits on the border of Georgia and South Carolina. While not considered Georgia’s largest lake (because of the shared shoreline), it is much larger than the previously mentioned lakes, covering 87.5 sq mi with about 960 miles of shoreline.

Lake Hartwell sits on the Georgia side in the Hart, Franklin, and Stephens counties. Hartwell is the largest city on the shores of the lake itself, with Gumlog and Reed Creek as unincorporated communities. Lavonia and Toccoa are nearby.

Recreation opportunities abound on Lake Hartwell, with hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, boating, and more available at the 147-acre Hart State Park—which also features furnished cottages and 79 campsites. Find boats, canoes, and kayaks available for rent! Tugaloo State Park on northern Lake Hartwell also has cottages for rent.

Lake Hartwell stands out for its abundance of fishing opportunities, with massive populations of catfish, crappie, small and largemouth bass, stripers, and more. Public and private boat ramps are located all around the lake.

Head to the nearby town of Hartwell for plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. Why not catch a show at the Hart County Community Theatre or High Cotton Music Hall? Alternatively, history buffs might want to check out the Hart County Historical Museum, Center of the World Monument, or Tri-County Antique trail featuring several antique stores.

Finally, golfers should check out the two nearby golf courses, the Hartwell Golf Club and Cateechee at Lake Hartwell.

Find many undeveloped lakefront properties on the Georgia side of Lake Hartwell, ranging in price from $8,000 to $3.4 million in August 2022. If you’re looking to build your own home on a lake, this is one of the best to consider.

If you’d prefer a move-in home, a number of homes are listed on Lake Hartwell, ranging from a three-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage listed at $99,900 to a five-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom newly constructed home listed at $1.65 million.

Lake Burton

Lake Burton, situated at the northern end of Georgia, is a small yet captivating reservoir, covering just 4.3 square miles with 62 miles of shoreline. It holds historical significance as one of the first man-made lakes used for power generation, named after the town that was submerged during its creation by Georgia Power/Southern Company.

Located in Rabun County, the nearest town to Lake Burton is Tiger, with the charming mountain towns of Clayton, Mountain City, and Dillard nearby. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, adding a unique dimension to its recreational appeal.

Despite its relatively modest size, Lake Burton is a hub for outdoor activities. Moccasin Creek State Park, located nearby, features 54 campsites across 32 acres, along with designated areas for swimming and fishing. The lake’s three marinas provide boat storage and rental options, including canoes and kayaks, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the water. For a relaxing day, consider picnicking in Jones Bridge Park or Timpson Cove. Additionally, visitors can reserve a table at notable restaurants around Lake Burton, such as the Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant, to enjoy farm-to-table dining and local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Lake Burton also offers a range of residential options. In August 2022, available vacant residential lots were priced between $45,000 and $350,000. Homes around the lake started at higher prices compared to other lakes, with a three-bedroom, 2.5-bath property listed at $695,000. The most expensive listing was a seven-bedroom, 7.5-bath property priced at $7,775,000, reflecting the lake’s appeal as a desirable place to live.

Lake Rabun

Not a mile southeast of Lake Burton is the charming Lake Rabun, a family-friendly destination nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Covering just 1.3 sq mi with only 25 miles of shoreline and 835 acres of surface water, Lake Rabun is a quaint spot built and maintained by the Georgia Power Company.

Despite its smaller size, Lake Rabun offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, and boating at Nacoochee Park. For those seeking accommodations, Bleu Canoe provides cozy cabins and a campground accessible by the lake, perfect for a rustic getaway.

Lake Rabun Hotel, known for its warm hospitality and acclaimed restaurant, has been a staple of the area since 1922. Located across from the lake, it offers a delightful stay with a touch of historical charm.

The lake has experienced a significant housing boom over the years. While it lacks extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, it compensates with its quaint residential opportunities. The Lake Rabun Homeowners Association even organizes tours of the homes surrounding the lake to raise money for local causes.

In August 2022, only seven homes were available on Lake Rabun’s shores, ranging from $675,000 for a newly constructed home featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms to $2,850,000 for a three-bedroom, four-bathroom property. This picturesque setting makes Lake Rabun a favorite destination in Rabun County, Georgia.

Lake Blue Ridge: A Tranquil Retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Nestled within the majestic Chattahoochee National Forest, Lake Blue Ridge is a serene escape offering breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. This pristine lake is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. Anglers will find plenty of opportunities to catch largemouth bass and other fish species.

Lake Blue Ridge is not only a haven for nature lovers but also provides a range of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs. Visitors can choose from cozy rental cabins, charming local inns, or even campgrounds for a more rustic experience. These accommodations offer the perfect base for exploring the lake’s natural beauty and the surrounding forest.

Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, hike scenic nature trails, or enjoy a pontoon boat ride, Lake Blue Ridge promises a memorable getaway. With its combination of outdoor activities and comfortable lodging, it’s no wonder this lake is a favorite among those seeking a tranquil escape in Georgia’s lakes.
Discover More Stunning Georgia Lakes

Lake Seminole: A Vast Southern Gem

Lake Seminole spans an impressive 37,500 acres, offering ample space for a variety of water sports and outdoor activities. Located in South Georgia and bordering Florida, this expansive lake is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, crappie, and striped bass. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake while engaging in boating, kayaking, and other recreational pursuits.

Lake Blackshear: A Family-Friendly Retreat

With 97 miles of shoreline, Lake Blackshear is a fantastic destination for families seeking outdoor fun. The Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club offers a championship golf course and a full-service marina, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors. Accommodations range from campgrounds to cozy cabins, providing comfort for all guests. The lake offers numerous family-friendly activities, including swimming, picnicking, and exploring nature trails, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Georgia Veterans State Park also features an archery and air gun range, adding to the variety of recreational options available such as fishing, boating, and golf.

Lake Chatuge: Scenic Beauty and Adventure

Nestled in Hiawassee, Lake Chatuge boasts 130 miles of shoreline and offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The Ridges Resort at Lake Chatuge features a full-service marina and boat rentals, making it easy for guests to explore the pristine waters. The resort also offers fine dining options, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. The lake’s swimming beach and public boat ramps provide additional opportunities for water-based activities. Located a short distance from the charming town of Blairsville, Lake Chatuge is ideal for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Tallulah Falls Lake: A Picturesque Escape

Situated within Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls Lake is a picturesque destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat. The lake’s location within the park offers visitors the chance to explore the stunning gorge, hike scenic trails, and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty that Georgia’s lakes have to offer.

Lake Sinclair: A Quiet Retreat

Lake Sinclair is a serene and peaceful destination located in central Georgia. With its 15,300 acres of pristine lakefront property, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake offers a range of activities, including fishing, swimming, jet skiing, tubing, boating, and wakeboarding. Multiple marinas and boat ramps make it easy for visitors to enjoy the lake’s many recreational opportunities.

Visitors to Lake Sinclair can enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife that surrounds the lake. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers. The lake’s many coves and inlets provide a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Sinclair is also home to a number of amenities and attractions. The lake has several restaurants and marinas, offering a range of dining and recreational options. Visitors can also explore the surrounding countryside, which is home to a number of historic sites and natural attractions.

Overall, Lake Sinclair is a quiet retreat that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply spend time with family and friends, Lake Sinclair is the perfect destination.

Popular Activities on Georgia’s Lakes

Living on or near Georgia’s best lakes offers a wealth of outdoor activities that cater to a variety of interests. Many of Georgia’s lakes feature scenic hiking trails and picnic areas, providing perfect spots for families and nature enthusiasts to enjoy the great outdoors. Designated swimming areas are available at numerous lakes, allowing residents and visitors to cool off and relax in the pristine waters.

Some of Georgia’s lakes also offer an archery and air gun range, adding to the diverse recreational options available, including fishing, boating, and golf.

Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities across several Georgia lakes, offering a peaceful way to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Wildlife watching is another common pastime, with the diverse ecosystems around the lakes providing habitats for a variety of birds and animals.

Fishing enthusiasts will find Georgia’s lakes particularly appealing. West Point Lake, with its 525 miles of shoreline, is favored for its excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Burton is a haven for anglers, home to an array of fish species including spotted bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, and rainbow trout. Meanwhile, Lake Seminole is renowned for its abundant populations of largemouth, hybrid, striped, and white bass, making it a prime destination for fishing adventures.

Whether you’re hiking, swimming, paddling, or fishing, Georgia’s lakes offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoyment.

Buying a Lake House in Georgia

Georgia is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. You may not think of it as a destination for waterfront living, but its lakes show you can have an affordable lakeside lifestyle in Georgia. If you want to avoid living in Atlanta or the Georgia plains and think a lakefront lifestyle is proper for you, consider looking into one of these lakes. 

As always, we recommend contacting a local realtor to explore further options. They can help you decide which lakefront property in Georgia is right for you.

Market Trends and Insights

The market for lakefront properties in Georgia is highly competitive and increasingly so, with many buyers seeking to purchase a piece of paradise. According to recent market trends, the demand for lakefront properties is on the rise, with many buyers looking for a peaceful and serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the key trends in the market is the increasing popularity of luxury lakefront properties. Many buyers are seeking high-end amenities and features, such as private docks, boat lifts, and gourmet kitchens. As a result, luxury lakefront properties are in high demand, with many sellers commanding top dollar for their properties.

Another trend in the market is the growing popularity of lakefront properties in south Georgia. Many buyers are seeking to purchase properties in this region, which is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. As a result, prices for lakefront properties in south Georgia are on the rise, with many sellers seeing significant returns on their investments.

Overall, the market for lakefront properties in Georgia is highly competitive, with many buyers seeking to purchase a piece of paradise. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a lakefront property, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest market trends and insights.

Conclusion: Finding Your Dream Lakefront Property in Georgia

Finding your dream lakefront property in Georgia can be a challenging and time-consuming process. With so many options to choose from, it’s essential to do your research and stay focused on your goals. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a luxury getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Georgia’s lakes have something for everyone.

From the serene and peaceful Lake Sinclair to the luxury amenities of Lake Oconee, Georgia’s lakes offer a range of options for buyers and renters alike. With its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and growing popularity, Georgia’s lakes are the perfect destination for those seeking a piece of paradise.

So why wait? Start your search for your dream lakefront property in Georgia today. With its many amenities, attractions, and natural beauty, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, Georgia’s lakes are the perfect destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

As you begin your search, be sure to consider the many factors that will impact your decision. From the type of property you’re looking for to the location and amenities, it’s essential to stay focused on your goals. With the right approach and a little bit of luck, you’ll find your dream lakefront property in Georgia in no time.

So what are you waiting for? Start your search today and find your dream lakefront property in Georgia. With its many amenities, attractions, and natural beauty, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home.