Carters Lake
A forest-ringed reservoir in North Georgia, Carters Lake captivates with its clear jade green waters, perfect for fishing, birding, and serene explora...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds
Carters Lake
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A forest-ringed reservoir in North Georgia, Carters Lake captivates with its clear jade green waters, perfect for fishing, birding, and serene exploration.
"Jade green water that is clear enough to see 10 or 12 feet down. It wasn't crowded at all."
Kayak Launch Caution
The path to the water near the dam is steep & rocky. Choose your launch spot wisely for easier access. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Submerged Hazards
Be aware of sunken trees & stumps close to shore, especially when boating or kayaking. ⛵
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 285 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jade Green Waters
Throughout the lake
Experience the breathtaking, clear jade green water, so transparent you can see depths of 10-12 feet. Perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Secluded Coves & Islands
Various inlets and islands
Discover hidden coves, small islands, and pristine shorelines perfect for a private picnic or quiet exploration.
Scenic Overlooks & Trails
Dam area and surrounding forests
Enjoy panoramic views from overlooks and explore hiking trails that wind through the forest, offering opportunities for birding and wildlife spotting.
+1
Picnic & Campground Bliss
Designated picnic areas and campgrounds
Relax at clean, well-maintained picnic sites or enjoy overnight stays at paved campsites with decks, offering a comfortable base for lake adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Navigating the Lake's Charms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Launch Caution
The path to the water near the dam is steep & rocky. Choose your launch spot wisely for easier access. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Submerged Hazards
Be aware of sunken trees & stumps close to shore, especially when boating or kayaking. ⛵
Pack for a Picnic
Enjoy the clean, well-maintained picnic areas. Bring your own food for a delightful lakeside meal. :sandwich:
Explore Beyond the Water
Discover nearby hiking trails, wineries, and orchards for a full North Georgia experience. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Launch Caution
The path to the water near the dam is steep & rocky. Choose your launch spot wisely for easier access. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Submerged Hazards
Be aware of sunken trees & stumps close to shore, especially when boating or kayaking. ⛵
Pack for a Picnic
Enjoy the clean, well-maintained picnic areas. Bring your own food for a delightful lakeside meal. :sandwich:
Explore Beyond the Water
Discover nearby hiking trails, wineries, and orchards for a full North Georgia experience. :hiking_boot:
Book RV Sites Early
Popular RV resorts like Talona Ridge fill up fast, especially during events. Book ahead! 🏕️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Carters Lake's stunning jade green waters and the abundance of secluded coves and islands perfect for exploration. The clean picnic areas and well-maintained campgrounds are also frequently praised. However, some find the access points, particularly near the dam, to be steep and rocky, and caution is advised regarding submerged hazards close to shore.
"I just visited Carters Lake for the first time today. I kayak, so that is the focus of my review. I put in at the dam, just down from the visitors center. The path from the parking lot to the water is steep and rocky. Thus, the missing star. Poor choice on my part. The rest was great! Jade green water that is clear enough to see 10 or 12 feet down. It wasn't crowded at all. There is a very slight current toward the dam. I had no trouble paddling any direction. I prefer choppy water and boat wakes, but it was good enough. Lots of inlets, islands, tiny beaches, trails, and shoreline primitive campsites. I will be back at a better parking spot. Oh, cost me 5 bucks for day use. Be careful of sunken trees and stumps close to shore anywhere."
Michael Sharrock
"So pretty. We just stopped by, but the picnic area was clean and well taken care of. Wish we could have stayed longer."
Melissa LaBrecque
"Great family place. Beautiful. Good fishing, swimming. Beautiful at the power house about 3 roads down from the spill way."
LaDonna Whitener
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carters Lake is located in North Georgia, about an hour north of Atlanta. Access points include the dam area, various recreation areas, and boat ramps. Many visitors drive, with specific directions depending on your chosen activity or accommodation.
Public transport options directly to Carters Lake are limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby town, but be sure to confirm availability.
Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to explore the lake's many inlets and islands. Hiking trails around the lake offer scenic views and birding opportunities.
Yes, the drive around Carters Lake and through the surrounding North Georgia mountains offers beautiful scenery, especially during the fall. Many visitors combine a lake visit with exploring nearby Ellijay.
Carters Lake is approximately one hour north of Atlanta, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway destination for city dwellers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day-use fees typically apply at recreation areas and boat launch sites, often around $5. Campground and cabin rentals have separate fees. Check with the Army Corps of Engineers for specific area pricing.
Operating hours can vary by season and specific recreation area. Boat ramps and day-use areas are generally accessible from dawn to dusk, while campgrounds have specific check-in/check-out times.
Boating on Carters Lake generally does not require a special permit beyond standard boat registration. However, always follow boating safety regulations.
Yes, Carters Lake offers various camping options, including paved campsites with amenities and primitive shoreline campsites accessible by boat. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season.
While generally open for recreation, be aware of any posted regulations regarding swimming, fishing, and boating. Some areas might have specific rules for safety or conservation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Top activities include kayaking, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking scenic trails, birdwatching, and enjoying picnics. The clear, jade green water is a major draw.
Yes, Carters Lake is known for its beautiful, clear water, making it a great spot for swimming. Designated swimming areas are available, and many find the water inviting.
Carters Lake is popular for bass fishing, as well as crappie and bream. Anglers can fish from boats, kayaks, or the shoreline.
Yes, there are hiking trails around Carters Lake, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding forests and enjoy scenic views. Some trails lead to overlooks or connect to primitive campsites.
Carters Lake can get crowded on weekends and during peak summer months. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly on the lake, you can find restaurants in nearby towns like Ellijay. Many visitors pack picnics to enjoy at the lake's scenic spots.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the lake clean.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in the nearby towns of Ellijay and Blue Ridge, which are convenient for stocking up before heading to the lake.
The Carters Lake area, particularly Ellijay, offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to charming cafes and local restaurants. You can also find wineries with food pairings.
Information about specific dining options at the Carters Lake marina can vary. It's best to check directly with the marina or local tourism resources for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks, the clear jade green water, secluded coves, and the surrounding lush forests. The dam area and shoreline offer great perspectives.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant water color.
Drone usage may be subject to FAA regulations and specific park rules. Always check for any restrictions before flying a drone in the Carters Lake area.
The area is known for birdwatching, so keep an eye out for various bird species. You might also spot deer or other small mammals in the surrounding forests.
The Carters Lake Dam itself is an impressive structure. The unique jade green color of the water and the many small islands and coves also make for distinctive photographic subjects.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit