Your guide to Georgia’s lakes: 16 spots to play or unwind

BY Allison Entrekin - August 1, 2019

Photograph by John E. McDonald

“A lake,” William Wordsworth wrote, “carries you into recesses of feeling otherwise impenetrable.” Indeed, just gazing out over water can unwind the stress of city life. Fortunately for landlocked Atlanta, there are dozens of reservoirs nearby, both in Georgia and neighboring states. But how do you pick the scene that’s right for you? Options range from quiet mountain retreats to bumping party coves and swanky luxury resorts. You can even live full-time on a waterfront close enough for commuting downtown. Here’s our guide for finding your happy place.