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Lake Lanier

Just north of Atlanta is Lake Lanier. This man-made lake features an astounding 692 miles of shoreline, making it a delightful attraction year-round!

Created in 1956 with the completion of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River, its main goal is to protect Atlanta from flooding. Named for poet Sidney Lanier, it is currently operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and patrolled by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

During the summer months, the lake becomes a ginormous community swimming pool, making it an extremely popular destination amoung boaters, houseboats, jetskiers, and others. Marinas galore grace the shorlines, and you can't miss a stop at the Lake Lanier Islands Waterpark.

Two resort hotels reside at the lake: Emerald Pointe and Pine Isle, if you care to extend your visit to an overnight stay or longer.

On the lake in Buford, Georgia, you can find Holiday Marina, one of the two largest freshwater marinas in the world.

If you are making a pass of the lake from mid-November through December, stop by Lake Lanier Islands for some holiday cheer! Here you can venture through six plus miles of holiday lights, making it one of the world's largest light shows. Magical Nights of Lights is an animated drive-through display that ends with a holiday village, carnival rides, bonfire, Santa Shop, live nativity, and more.

Regardless of the season or age, Lake Lanier has something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to make a stop on your next visit to northern Georgia!