When I was around 19 we started going every fourth of july and the lake would be filled with happy people and the smell of great barbecues. I loved to wade in the water and the exicitment it brung. I don't hardly go there like I use to for the fourth, but I hope to go back this year!
Lake continues to be full of water. A brisk walk along the dam from the Corp offices on a sunny afternoon is just great. Then a snack at the New King Wok -Chinese take out restaurant near the wal-mart in Hartwell made a good afternoon in Hartwell Ga.
Lots of things to do on Lake Hartwell. We have Hartwell State park and a great marina. We have annual boat shows, fishing events, festivals skiing and awesome sunsets
The drought is over and Lake Hartwell is beautiful. The Corps of Engineers has several very nice campgrounds and fishing is great. Lake Hartwell is enjoyable year round.
There is a very nice paved walking part along the top of the dam. You get a view of the lake and the dam. Great parking. Free parking.
The heavy spring rains have brought Lake Hartwell to full pool for the first time in many years. The lake is more than ready for a busy boating scene. Be sure to check with the Hart County Chamber. Of Commerce for the many weekend activities planned. Fishing has been so good that the crazy fishermen have been seen in full rain gear out in their bass boats. Hartwell is a beautiful lake with many recreational opportunities including the many campgrounds operated by the Corps of Engineers. Northeast Georgia is scenic and hospitable. History abounds.
My husband & I went to Hartwell/Lake Hartwell, Ga. for an overnight stay. No rooms in the three motels available because of Jet-ski Competition on Lake Hartwell. Had to drive to Elbertson, Ga. Found a Days Inn with a room available. The non-smoking room was nice (for a one night stay) but that was about it. This motel/inn is NOT in a good local. Lots of noise from street traffic and train whistle blowing all during the night. We both had a very uneasy feeling all night and did not sleep well. If there are rooms available at the Best Western in Hartwell, that is where we will stay next time there.
The water was clean & beautiful! The picnic areas were well maintained. The bathrooms were clean. I will definitely be back to spend some time out by the lake!
Love the lake, not crowed like Lanier. Had fun and felt safe pulling the grand kids on the tube. Gum Branch ramp is great. Hart State park isn't what it used to be for camping but day use is good. Narrow ramp at Hart state park.
I have been to all of the large lakes in Georgia and Lake Hartwell is my favorite. It is scenic, easily accessed with clear water and limited crowds, particularly compared to the insanity that occurs on the lakes closer to Atlanta. The swimming season goes from April through October. You can always find a spot in a secluded cove along the hundreds of miles of shoreline. It is also only a short drive to the mountains. The only downside is that the lake level can drop during an extended drought.