With several million visitors annually enjoying its recreational facilities, Lake Sidney Lanier is easily the most popular lake in the Southeast.
A man-made lake, Lake Lanier sits just 50 miles from the Georgia State Capitol. Its 690-plus miles of shoreline touches the following five Northeast Georgia counties: Dawson, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall and Lumpkin. Lake Lanier opened in 1957 after construction was completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Today, Lake Lanier is a multipurpose lake authorized for flood protection, power production, water supply, navigation, recreation, and fish and wildlife management.
Our claim to fame
Lake Lanier became a household name internationally during the Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympics when the City of Gainesville hosted the canoe/kayak and rowing events at Lake Lanier Olympic Park (LLOP).
Now home to Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club and Lake Lanier Rowing Club, LLOP is considered an exceptional venue for racing events due to its flat and open water – an important aspect of competitive rowing.
Plan your trip
Lake Lanier has 76 recreational areas, including 40 parks and campgrounds operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 10 marinas and Lake Lanier Islands. The remaining areas are leased to local governments or other organizations. There are over 20 access points to Lake Lanier via boat ramps and park complexes, many of which can accommodate large-scale events and tournaments.
Known as a top fishing destination, Lake Lanier attracts amateur and professional anglers from across the globe year-round. The lake is home to 16 species of game fish, including largemouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass and lake trout.
And like all fun lakes, Lake Lanier hosts a wide variety of other water activities, like boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, sailing, swimming and wakeboarding, among other recreational interests.
Lake Lanier attractions
