Lake Burton
About Lake Burton
Lake Burton is located in Rabun County in the northeast Georgia mountains, just east of the town of Clayton and near the North Carolina border. The lake sits within a heavily forested region of the Chattahoochee National Forest and is surrounded by rolling hills, coves, and residential lake communities. Its elevated mountain setting gives it a cooler climate than much of Georgia.
The lake is a reservoir formed by the Burton Dam on the Tallulah River and is part of the Tallulah River chain of lakes. It is known for relatively clear water, stable shorelines, and moderate depth compared to downstream reservoirs. Lake Burton supports a wide range of recreational uses, including boating, fishing, swimming, and seasonal tourism, while maintaining a quieter, more residential character.
Key Features
Quick facts (at-a-glance)
- Location: Rabun County near Clayton, Georgia
- Surface Area: Approximately 2,775 acres
- Maximum Depth: About 70 feet
- Shoreline Length: Roughly 62 miles
- Elevation: Around 1,866 feet above sea level
- Type: Reservoir
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, spotted bass, trout, bream, catfish
- Average Summer Temp: Mid-70s to low-80s °F (water)
- Public Access: Limited public ramps including Moccasin Creek area
- Nearby Attractions: Tallulah Gorge State Park, Clayton, Lake Rabun
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What you can do there
Swimming: Lake Burton’s clean, clear water makes it popular for swimming during the warmer months. Many homes and coves feature gradual shorelines and private docks suitable for recreational swimming.
Boating: The lake supports power boating, pontoon cruising, and personal watercraft. Its winding coves and open water areas allow for both relaxed cruising and active recreation.
Fishing: Anglers enjoy fishing for bass, trout, bream, and catfish throughout the year. Cooler water temperatures help support seasonal trout stocking in certain areas.
Kayaking & Canoeing: Calm coves and scenic shorelines provide ideal conditions for paddling. Early mornings are especially popular for quiet exploration and wildlife viewing.
Picnicking: Designated picnic areas near public access points and nearby parks offer scenic spots for family outings and lakeside meals.
Wildlife Watching: The surrounding forests are home to deer, waterfowl, and various bird species, making the lake a great location for nature observation.
Photography: Mountain backdrops, reflective waters, and seasonal foliage make Lake Burton a favorite spot for landscape and sunset photography.
Access, marinas & ramps
Boat Launch: Public access to Lake Burton is limited compared to many Georgia lakes, helping preserve its quieter atmosphere. Launch facilities are available in designated areas.
Moccasin Creek Area: The Moccasin Creek vicinity provides managed access for small boats and paddlers and is one of the primary public entry points.
Marinas: Full-service marinas such as Anchorage Boat Dock and other local facilities offer fuel, boat storage, rentals, and maintenance services.
Private Docks: Much of the shoreline is privately owned, with permitted docks serving residential properties and vacation homes.
Parking: Public parking is available near designated access points, though availability may be limited during peak summer weekends.
Road Access: The lake is accessible via local mountain roads from Clayton and surrounding communities, with scenic drives throughout the area.
Seasonal Considerations: Water levels and access conditions are managed as part of the Tallulah River system, with generally stable recreational access.
Safety & regulations
- Valid Georgia fishing license required for anglers
- Boats must follow Georgia boating safety regulations
- Observe posted no-wake zones near docks and coves
- Life jackets required as per state law
- Swimming only in designated or safe areas
- Respect private property and dock boundaries
- Watercraft inspections may be required to prevent invasive species
- Environmental protection rules apply along the shoreline
Gallery
Nearby highlights & suggested day trips
- Tallulah Gorge State Park: A dramatic canyon park offering hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a suspension bridge within a short drive of the lake.
- Clayton, Georgia: A charming mountain town with restaurants, local shops, and seasonal festivals close to Lake Burton.
- Lake Rabun: A neighboring reservoir downstream on the Tallulah River, known for historic cottages and scenic beauty.
- Lake Seed: Another nearby Tallulah River lake offering quiet waters and picturesque dam views.
- Black Rock Mountain State Park: Georgia’s highest state park featuring panoramic mountain views and hiking trails.
- Chattahoochee National Forest: Vast public lands surrounding the area with trails, waterfalls, and camping opportunities.
- Minnehaha Falls: A short hike leads to this picturesque waterfall near the Lake Burton area.
- Warwoman Wildlife Management Area: Known for backcountry hiking, gravel roads, and seasonal hunting.
- Scenic Highway 441: A beautiful drive connecting mountain towns, overlooks, and access points throughout northeast Georgia.
- North Carolina Mountain Towns: Several small towns across the state line make for easy day trips from Lake Burton.
Events & community
Lake Burton is supported by an active community of homeowners and local organizations focused on environmental stewardship and preserving the lake’s character. Community groups work with local authorities on water quality, shoreline management, and safety awareness.
Seasonal events in nearby Clayton and surrounding mountain towns include festivals, outdoor markets, and fishing-related activities that attract both residents and visitors throughout the year.
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