Lake Hartwell - The Great Lake of the South

Tucked between western South Carolina and northern Georgia, Lake Hartwell is the place to be for exciting outdoor activities, peaceful relaxation and even romantic interludes. From swimming to horseback riding, residents have a wide variety of activities to choose from – on the water or on land. If you’re looking to retire to Georgia, this area is home to high quality waterfront retirement communities and some of the best golf communities in the south.

Fishing in Lake Hartwell is renowned by fisherman across the area.  The lake is inhabited by striped and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie and catfish.  People can enjoy fishing from piers or from designated shoreline areas, and those who own fishing boats can launch them at numerous boat ramps. There are 80 public boat ramps located around Lake Hartwell where people can launch their boats, and boat rentals are available at 5 different boat marinas.

Lake Hartwell is a manmade lake bordering both Georgia and western South Carolina. The lake was created by the Hartwell Dam located on the Savannah River, just seven miles below the point at which the Seneca and Tugaloo Rivers join to form the Savannah River. Tugaloo State Park is a 393 acre state park located on the shore of Lake Hartwell in Franklin County, Georgia. The park features a swimming beach, boat ramps, and ample fishing opportunities – large-mouth bass are plentiful.  

Lake Hartwell is also home to great events throughout the year.  This summer there are several that shouldn’t be missed. The Third Annual Lake Hartwell Music Festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 23rd 2015.  Local musicians are highlighted during this show that benefits non-profit organizations.

A month later, on June 26th and 27th, Hartwell celebrates its Pre-4th weekend with the Dancin’ on Depot party.  The event is held in Downtown Hartwell and features a huge craft show, fireworks, a YMCA Triathlon, and of course, dancing. The Community Band plays patriotic music from 8-9pm and the Fireworks show starts about 9:15pm.

There’s plenty to do at the Lake Hartwell waterfront retirement communities. One of the best golf communities in the area is the Currahee Club on Lake Hartwell. It’s located only 90 minutes from Atlanta and 60 minutes from Greenville, but couldn’t seem further away from the hustle and bustle of city life.  Everything someone would need is only a stone’s throw away is within a reasonable distance of your front door. Thanks to its award winning championship golf course and a mountain lodge-style 48,000 square foot golf clubhouse, the Currahee Club has quickly carved a name for itself as one of the best golf communities in Georgia.  New features on the property include its Sports & Amenity Campus. This $2.5 million amenity features a resort-style swimming pool, two tennis courts, fitness center, ball courts, fire pits, a community garden and more. On the shores of Lake Hartwell, Currahee Lake Park has a covered community boat dock where you can launch a kayak or canoe. Lakefront property with a boat dock is available at the Currahee Club.  

Take a peek at Currahee Club homes

We find Lake Hartwell to be one of the best lakes in the south.  The tranquil mountain lifestyle, combined with endless outdoor activities, among magnificent scenery, are just a couple of reasons why people who retire to Georgia love this part of the country. 

If you’re considering waterfront retirement communities, ask us to send you info about Lake Hartwell.