Lake Hartwell

The lure of Lake Hartwell, to both anglers and recreation enthusiasts across the nation, is no surprise to locals who have enjoyed the wide variety of opportunities the lake has offered the area for more than 50 years.

One of the jewels of the Southeast, Lake Hartwell’s 56,000 acres of water and 963 miles of shoreline make it a favored spot for recreation. Another 25,000 acres surrounding the lake is devoted to easily accessible recreation facilities.

After hosting a boatload of professional bass tournaments over the past few years. Lake Hartwell is now widely recognized as one of the top fishing lakes in the country.

Construction of the man-made lake along the South Carolina-Georgia border on the Savannah, Tugaloo, and Seneca rivers, began in 1955 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of an $89-million flood control, hydropower, and navigation project.

The lake was named in honor of Revolutionary War hero Nancy Hart, for whom Hart County, GA, Hartwell, Ga, and Hartwell Dam were also named.

It was not long after the lake’s completion in 1963 that Hartwell’s purpose was expanded to include outdoor recreation, fish, and wildlife management. Today, with millions of visitors each year, Lake Hartwell is near the top of the most visited Corps lakes in the nation.

Nine campgrounds, with a total of 524 campsites, are also part of the offerings at Lake Hartwell. Many of the campgrounds include restrooms, showers, boat ramps, playgrounds, electric and water hook up, courtesy docs, group camping, and designated swimming areas.

It's little wonder, the word is getting out about Lake Hartwell, especially when it comes to fishing. In addition to Smallmouth and Largemouth bass, Hartwell has provided an amazing habitat for Striped Bass, Bream, Catfish, Walleye and even the occasional trout.

Fish as large as 60 pounds have been caught in Lake Hartwell, and snagging a 20-pounder is not that uncommon. Little wonder every major professional bass organization is now scheduling regular tournaments on the water here.

With an average lake elevation of 657.5 feet and depths up to 185 feet, the lake’s beauty and other offerings regularly bring in visitors from across the globe. Already one of the Southeast’s largest and most popular public recreation lakes, the future looks even brighter for Lake Hartwell. Anderson County’s Green Pond Landing is not only open to the public year-around but offers the best fishing launch and tournament site on the lake. With the deepest launch facilities, extended dock, and sprawling vista of the lake, Green Pond’s reputation continues to grow as a can’t miss tourist destination.

Lake Hartwell’s fishing, recreational and professional boating, camping, swimming, hiking, and other outdoor activities will continue to reel in nature lovers to this jewel of the Southeast for years to come.