With almost 800 miles of scenic shoreline at nearby Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair, not to mention Hard Labor Creek State Park’s Lake Brantley and Lake Rutledge, there’s a reason Madison is at the heart of what has become known as Georgia’s Lake Country.

Packed with outdoor recreation, fine dining, unique retailers, and luxury spas, Georgia’s Lake Country is made up of the communities of Madison, Greensboro, Eatonton, and Milledgeville. Located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, Georgia’s Lake Country is your haven close to home and the perfect place to enjoy a vacation full of adventure or to simply slow down and indulge in a wellness retreat.

Lake Activities

When visiting Georgia’s Lake Country, it’s crucial to know how to play on the lake. Public boat ramps are scattered throughout the area. If you’re staying in Madison, you can check out a full list of marinas, boat ramps and recreational areas in Morgan County here.

Want more information on fishing at Lake Oconee or Lake Sinclair or where to rent a boat or jet ski? Check out the full list of marinas, watersports companies, and more on GALakeCountry.com or helpful lake information including lake levels and maps of fishing spots from GA Power.

• Marinas in Georgia’s Lake Country
• Rent boats, jet skis and more in Georgia’s Lake Country
• Fishing in Georgia’s Lake Country

Of course you don’t have to be on the water to have fun, enjoy seasonal beaches at Lawrence Shoals Park, Lake Sinclair Recreation Area, and other locations to play and lounge shoreside. For a less travelled beach, try Lake Rutledge at Hard Labor Creek State Park for a quiet getaway and non-motorized boat rentals.

Golf

If golf is your cup of ‘tee,’ Georgia’s Lake Country is a premier destination for top-rated courses. Experience six championship courses at Reynold’s Plantation or head over to The Creek at Hard Labor Creek State Park to play the course named “4^th sweetest deal” in the USA by Golf Digest’s Frugal Golfer. Tee off lakeside at The Club at Lake Sinclair or Harbor Club Lake Oconee. With 11 area courses, you will have to keep coming back to discover your favorite.

Adventure

A day on the lake or hitting the links aren’t the only ways to have fun in Georgia’s Lake Country. Bikers, hikers and other adventure sport enthusiasts will have plenty to do on your next vacation. Interested in shooting clays or riding dirt bikes? Georgia’s Lake Country has you covered. Equestrian aficionados will also have a blast riding the trails at Hard Labor Creek or planning an afternoon in the saddle at Southern Cross Guest Ranch. Learn more about unique experiences you can only have in Georgia’s Lake Country.

Spas

With 30,000 square feet for spa treatments and amenities including saunas, steam rooms, and relaxing lounges, The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is the ultimate relaxation paradise. For those who prefer a more holistic experience, check out ZEN Relaxing Wellness Center in Madison. Headed to Milledgeville? The Serenity Wellness Spa & Salon is sure to help bring you inner peace.

Stay

Whether you’re looking for a night camping under the stars, a quaint bed and breakfast, or to be spoiled in lakefront luxury, Georgia’s Lake Country offers a variety of accommodations for all desires and budgets. Camp lakeside or immersed in the trees at one of the areas dozen campgrounds. Enjoy quaint bed and breakfasts such as The Brady Inn or The James Madison Inn. Of course the area offers a plethora of hotels in all price ranges as well.

Dining

After all the adventure or relaxing, a hearty meal is in order. From waterside bistros to Southern staples and international cuisines, Georgia’s Lake Country has an array of options for you choosing. Perhaps the best way to enjoy a meal is with a slight breeze on your face and the sun warming your shoulders. Explore Georgia Lake Country’s favorite outdoor dining experiences including Gaby’s on the Lake overlooking Lake Oconee and the popular Lake Oconee Bistro. For a more upscale experience, make reservations for Linger Longer Steakhouse at The Ritz-Carlton,  The Reel Grill of Milledgeville, or The Dining Room in Madison.

Fishing & Watersports

Known for its fishing and leisure, Lake Oconee is a popular destination for vacationers in Georgia. With 55 miles of shoreline in Morgan County, Lake Oconee is a 19,971 acre reservoir formed by the Oconee and Apalachee Rivers. The latter forms 34 miles of the eastern boundary of Morgan County. Georgia Power Lakes provides helpful information on current lake levels as well as lake maps for fishing spots, debris and more. Don’t have your own boat? Check out Georgia’s Lake Country’s guide to boat and jet ski rentals for Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair. 

Additionally, Hard Labor Creek State Park is home to the 275-acre Lake Rutledge and the 48-acre Lake Brantley, offering a public sand beach, seasonal kayak rentals as well as a busy schedule of ranger-led activities. Whether you love to fish, boat, or swim, Madison-Morgan County is your next watersports destination.

Marinas, Boat Ramps, and Recreational Areas

Fishing Guides

Oconee On The Fly
404-317-9556
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Offering: Hybrids and Striper trips, Crappie Trips

BigFishHeads Guide Service
770-354-0300
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Offering: Crappie Fishing, Striper Fishing

Lake Oconee Fishing Guides
706-887-6110
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