7 Most Gorgeous Lakes Near Atlanta, Georgia - Updated 2024

1. Lake Allatoona

Atlanta abounds with romantic places that will delight couples. Nestled in northwestern Georgia, Lake Allatoona, for example, is a picturesque reservoir renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities for couples and young adults. Formed by the damming of Etowah River, this man-made lake spans over 12,000 acres (4,856.23 hectares) and boasts more than 270 miles (434.52 kilometers) of shoreline, making it one of the biggest lakes in Georgia.

It serves as a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and picnicking. Anglers flock to Lake Allatoona to catch a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish, while water sports enthusiasts relish in jet skiing, wakeboarding, and swimming. For a stunning view of the lake, head to Homestead Trail, a portion of which wraps around the lake.

Lake Allatoona

Address: Bartow County and Cherokee County, Georgia

Website: Lake Allatoona

2. Lake Acworth

Want to escape the chaos of the city and seek bliss? Then, Lake Acworth, a 260-acre (105 hectares) man-made lake is the right pick for you. The strict rule of no watercraft and gas-powered motors, make this place a tranquil getaway destination and a great spot to rejuvenate amidst a breathtaking natural setting. Get to the lake and indulge in picnicking, paddleboarding, canoeing, fishing, and many other fun outdoor activities. Lake Acworth acts as a hub for many organized events such as paddleboard races and meet-ups among others, which gets visitors involved in something or the other throughout the year.

Lake Acworth

Address: Acworth, GA 30101, USA

Website: Lake Acworth

3. Lake Lanier

Situated less than an hour north of Atlanta, sits Lake Lanier, a crowd-favorite destination. It is a perfect place to escape the summer temperatures. Visitors can find a plethora of things to indulge in while here. You could go shopping, tubing, picnicking, kayaking, or fishing. The legendary races in the 1996 Olympics of sprint canoeing, as well as rowing, were held here. Also, make sure to rent a houseboat during your stay here. The experience is truly one-of-a-kind.

Lake Lanier

Website: Lake Lanier

4. Lake Jackson

In the southeast of Atlanta, near Metro Atlanta, lies this reservoir lake of 4,750 acres (1,922 hectares). Run by Georgia Power, Lake Jackson is one of the famous spots for camping, fishing, picnicking, and a variety of water sports. Along with this, the lake has innovative tools such as the interactive maps for public access points, parks, and more. The main highlights of this location include Lloyd Shoals Recreation Park and Martin’s Marina.

Lake Jackson

Website: Lake Jackson

5. Lake Spivey

Although the lake is smaller compared to the other lakes on this list, this 450-acre (182 hectares) lake that lies close to Jonesboro, in the south of Atlanta, shouldn’t be underestimated. Lake Spivey is not accessible to the public but if you manage to get access, then you can enjoy the lake views, play golf at Lake Spivey Golf Club, or explore the surrounding neighborhoods of the lake.

Lake Spivey

Website: Lake Spivey

6. Bull Sluice Lake

Are you on a hunt for a lake where you can spend time and indulge in some activities? Blue Sluice Lake is the place to be. Bull Sluice Lake is a 673-acre (272 hectares) lake situated near Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in the north part of Georgia. Encompassed by Morgan Falls Dam, Bull Sluice Lake is a reservoir lake perfect for recreational activities such as hiking, rowing, fishing, and more. There is an abundance of fish in the region including channel catfish, crappie, brown and rainbow trout, and bass among others. Unfortunately, swimming in this lake is prohibited.

7. Stone Mountain Lake

This picturesque 323-acre (130.71 hectare) lake in the mountains of Georgia is a must-visit spot. It is nestled against the iconic backdrop of Stone Mountain, a massive granite monolith, which is one of the largest of its kind in the world. The lake offers a range of recreational activities, from fishing to paddleboarding. Anglers can try their luck at catching bass, catfish, and bream.

The surrounding Stone Mountain Park features an array of hiking trails, including Stone Mountain Walk-Up Trail, which leads to the summit of Stone Mountain. Here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline and the lake.

Stone Mountain Lake

Address: Stone Mountain Park, Georgia

Explore the most stunning lakes in Atlanta

Loved by locals for its beauty and tranquility, Atlanta will have your heart the moment you visit these outdoor enthusiast’s heaven. With so many gorgeous lakes and places to visit in Atlanta, Georgia, not to mention hiking trails, bliss and peace are just a short drive away. So, why not check out the beauty of these lakes for yourself on your visit to Atlanta? You can even stay overnight by these scenic lakes if you rent a camper rental.