The 5 Best Georgia Lakes for Swimming

With its hot, humid summers and mild winters, Georgia is a haven for outdoor recreation and water activities. And due to its mountains, forests, and beaches, the state offers diverse scenery for all of your outside play. While you could head to the coast and lounge near the ocean, you could also visit one of the many stunning lakes. Several of these fantastic lakes feature swimming beaches, nearby hiking trails, camping opportunities, and plenty of water fun. Discover the five best Georgia lakes for swimming and learn about all the recreations they offer.

1. Lake Allatoona

Located 30 minutes from Atlanta in Northwest Georgia, Lake Allatoona is a reservoir managed by the Army Corp. of Engineers. This popular recreational area attracts millions of visitors each year. And due to its large size covering more than 12,000 acres, there is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy its waters. 

The lake offers water activities, such as swimming, fishing, boating, and water sports. But you can also camp, hunt, picnic, hike, and bike. There are several access areas for swimming, but Bartow Beach is one of the best. It is a secluded area in Gatewood Park where you can swim and fish near a pristine family-friendly campground.

2. Lake Acworth

Covering 260 acres adjacent to Allatoona, Lake Acworth is a manmade recreational spot complete with beaches, picnic areas, and pavilions. This area is very popular during the summer when everyone spends hot afternoons relaxing in the sand and water. And it’s a favorite spot for fishing, where people can come and catch bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. 

Unlike many lakes in the state, Lake Acworth doesn’t allow gas-powered motors or personal watercraft, such as speedboats and jet skis. While that may be a bummer for some, it can be good for those looking for a quieter experience. There are several publish beach areas around the lake. Check out Cauble Park and South Shore Park.

3. Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier covers 38,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is the largest lake in the state. This lake is easily one of the most popular lakes in the Southeast, drawing several million visitors each year. And it’s not too far of a drive from major cities. It’s only about 60 miles north of Atlanta.

Lake Lanier has 700 miles of shoreline and at least 45 parks. There is an endless number of things to do for people of all ages. When you’re not swimming, kayaking, or jet skiing, you can fish, golf, or relax at a campground. Plus, it is close to several historical towns with excellent restaurants and entertainment. Due to the lake’s enormous size, there are many swimming spots for you and your family to enjoy. However, Lake Lanier didn’t make the number one spot on the list due to occasional outbreaks of blue-green algae.

4. Lake Chatuge

Lake Chatuge is a reservoir along the Hiwassee River in Northeast Georgia on the Tennessee border. This clear blue lake is surrounded by forested mountains, featuring the perfect backdrop for all your summer activities.

You can spend the day horseback riding, hiking, biking, and golfing, before taking a refreshing dip and relaxing on the sandy beach. This Southern Appalachian lake is unmatched for its beauty, featuring miles of shoreline, boat ramps, campgrounds, and secluded coves. There are several camping spots, and most of them are right along the water. You can unzip your tent and be steps away from swimming, boating, and fishing.

5. Fort Yargo Lake

This lake is 260 acres inside Fort Yargo State Park in Eastern Georgia outside Athens. People from all over visit the park for tons of recreational fun and history. Check out the log fort built in 1792 by settlers. And when you’re done, you can take advantage of the park’s 1,800 acres and find a spot for fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, and mountain biking. There are also several campsites, picnic shelters, disc golf courses, a nature center, and playgrounds. But one of the most popular areas is the large swimming beach and pavilion. This park and lake can easily take up an entire day and provide fun for the whole family. Bring your bikes, hiking boots, and swimsuits. And don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch!

Summary of the Best Georgia Lakes for Swimming

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