Everything You Need To Know About Lake Blue Ridge, Georgia
Lake Blue Ridge is located in Fannin County, Georgia approximately ten miles south of North Carolina and Tennessee state lines. The lake is about 15 minutes drive from downtown Blue Ridge which offers access to many activities, from winery tastings to horseback riding and zipline adventures. Lake Blue Ridge was formed in 1930 following the construction of the Blue Ridge Dam by Toccoa Electric Power Company.
It was ultimately purchased by the Tennessee Valley Authority for hydroelectric power production, which still occurs to this day. This can impact water levels and also enables tubers and rafters to flow swiftly through the waters when the dam is released, especially if you can coordinate with release timing!
The beautiful result of the man-made dam is the reservoir we now know as Lake Blue Ridge, which is nestled amongst the sprawling lands of the Chattahoochee National Forest. There are 60 miles of pristine shoreline, about 80% of which is National Forest land. The 3,290-acre lake offers entertainment options for adventures and fishers-alike, with a variety of outdoor entertainment options.
Fishing on Lake Blue Ridge
Fishing on Lake Blue Ridge offers a unique experience as it is the only lake in Georgia with smallmouth bass. Keep in mind that you will need to have your Georgia fishing license, which you can purchase online or over the phone. For more information on Georgia fishing licenses visit the Georgia Wildlife website. If you are looking for a more personal and guided option, there are services located at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina for guided fishing tours. If you are confident in navigating the lake on your own, take advantage of the many access points listed below.
Access Points
Lake Blue Ridge offers several access points for visitors to choose from to best meet their excursion needs. Vacationers can enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming and many other water sports. Depending on the location of your cabin and activities planned for your day, you can select an access point that's most convenient for you.
Lake Blue Ridge Day-use Area and Boat Ramp (also referred to as Blue Ridge Lake Recreation Area) is an excellent free boat launch option located just two miles from the intersection of highway 76 and Aska Road. This area also offers a quiet and charming environment for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Morganton Point Recreation Area offers a boat launch to the public as well as the only developed campsites on the lake. Camping season is from April through October but may vary with the weather. This is a family-friendly option, as there is a beach area for casual swimming, with lifeguards on duty during summer months. However, it is a pebble beach so be sure to bring water shoes for ultimate comfort.
Lakewood Landing Boat Launch is an affordable access point at just $5 per vehicle per day. It's located on Old Highway 76 in Morganton, GA. From Blue Ridge follow Highway 515 North approximately 4 miles to the traffic light at Highway 60. Turn right and go to the stop sign. Turn right, entrance to boat ramp will be .3 miles on left.
Lake Blue Ridge Dam: This scenic stop offers kayak and canoe access to Lake Blue Ridge as well as non-motorized boat access to the Toccoa River. When the dam is released to produce electricity, the water becomes classes one and two and can offer a float experience to tubers, rafters, and kayakers a through the rolling Georgia forests. There is also a scenic overlook, a picnic area, and Tammen Park close by with child-friendly options such as playground equipment and ball fields.
Enjoying Lake Blue Ridge Marina
Lake Blue Ridge Marina is a full-service marina offering dining and beverage options, a general store, boating services, and water sports rentals. Grab a bite to eat at the Boat Dock Bar and Grill, check out the boat showroom, or rent a standup paddleboard, kayak, pontoon, canoe, or paddleboat. The marina restaurant operates seasonally, so be sure to check their website before visiting. In addition, you can access the boat launch or gas up your vessel if you're running low on fuel.
Cabins Near Lake Blue Ridge
When you're ready to plan your Blue Ridge getaway, feel free to browse our nearby cabin options! Enjoy the serenity of a mountainside home while taking advantage of luxurious amenities in close proximity to unlimited adventures on Lake Blue Ridge!