Daniel is a copywriter who has well and truly been bitten alive by the 'travel bug'. After ticking off several North American National Parks and exploring Europe by train, his sights are now set on South East Asia. Usually with at least one camera locked and loaded, you'll find Daniel wherever there are mountains, lakes or beaches.
Dive into the heart of Georgia’s most beloved lakes with this comprehensive guide to the top 10 lakes near Savannah. Ranging from tranquil reservoirs to bustling waterways, each lake offers its unique flavor of outdoor adventure.
Gather your fishing gear, pack your picnic basket, and prepare to get back into nature!
Lake Sinclair
Discover the serenity of Lake Sinclair, a 15,300-acre haven of smooth waters and picturesque shorelines located 172 miles from Savannah. With a history tracing back to 1953, this beautiful lake provides the perfect backdrop for year-round water activities, from competitive fishing to tranquil boating, all within Georgia’s temperate climate.
Lake Lanier
At Lake Lanier in the heart of Georgia, every visit is a new adventure. Boasting over 680 miles of shoreline full of parks, this reservoir is a hub for water enthusiasts. Whether it’s boating, jet-skiing, or plunging into the excitement of the Lake Lanier Islands waterpark, you’ll find something to match your preferences. And for history buffs, the site’s connection with the 1996 Summer Olympics makes it even more compelling.
Lake Marion
As South Carolina’s largest lake, Lake Marion is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, located less than two hours from Savannah. Tucked between five counties, this 172-square-mile hub offers activities like boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with ospreys and deer making regular appearances. Nearby towns like Santee, a golfer’s paradise, add their own charm, while the lake’s unique blackwater ponds are ideal for those looking to cast a line.
Lake Moultrie
Nestled 128 miles from Savannah, Lake Moultrie calls with its tranquil, unspoiled beauty and exciting fishing spots. Seamlessly connected to Lake Marion and the Cooper River, the lake is a great place to head out on a boat for a day on the water. An added delight is the Lake Moultrie Passage — a 33-mile stretch of South Carolina’s Palmetto Trail. This natural gem is a doorway to world-class fishing and hiking, all within striking distance of Charleston’s historic charm.
Lake Murray
Venture 150 miles north of Savannah to discover the natural splendor of Lake Murray, a popular reservoir in South Carolina. With a vast 50,000-acre expanse and 650-mile shoreline, Lake Murray is the perfect spot for a wide range of water activities. Dreher Island State Park offers various lake-related ventures, while Spence Island thrills visitors with its annual concerts. The picturesque walkway across the dam and the neighboring public beach presents a tantalizing day out.
Lake Allatoona
From the tranquility of camping under the stars to the thrill of navigating its waters, Lake Allatoona – known officially as Allatoona Lake, extends a warm welcome to millions of visitors each year. Located 4 hours from Savannah and just north of Atlanta, Lake Allatoona stretches 12,000 acres with a shoreline of 270 miles. The lake’s eight marinas offer services from boat rentals to delicious food delights, while campgrounds beckon for an overnight stay amidst the natural beauty.
Lake Blackshear
Lake Blackshear, located less than 200 miles from Savannah, is well-known as southwest Georgia’s top lake for recreation and fishing. Embark on a thrilling water skiing adventure or cast a line under beautiful moss-draped trees. The nearby 1300-acre Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park, with its comprehensive collection of military relics, adds a historical dimension to your journey, creating a unique blend of nature and history.
Lake Burton
Life finds a seamless rhythm on the shores of Lake Burton, the largest lake among the five North Georgia lakes. It’s a sanctuary for outdoorsy travelers, with facilities for boating, camping, fishing, and dips in the pristine waters of Timpson Cove Beach. Don’t miss the splendid views from Jones Bridge Park, a hidden gem that provides a panoramic vista of this mesmerizing destination.
High Falls Lake
A three-hour drive from Savannah takes you to High Falls Lake, a 650-acre fishing haven located in Northwest Macon. Known for its remarkable bass fishing, the amazing lake also serves as a launch point for boating, canoeing, camping, and hiking enthusiasts. Visitors are treated to captivating hiking trails toward a former hydroelectric plant and can enjoy a refreshing dip in a nearby pool. Fully furnished yurts provide a unique and comfortable camping experience.
Lake Oconee
A scenic journey of under 200 miles from Savannah takes you to Lake Oconee, a man-made marvel spanning three counties in Georgia’s heartland. Born out of the Wallace Dam’s construction in 1979, the lake teems with water-based activities along its vast 374-mile shoreline. Infused with the heritage of the Creek town it’s named after, Lake Oconee harmoniously blends the nostalgia of the past with the allure of the present.