Lake Nottely
Union County, Georgia, USA
A TVA mountain reservoir near Blairsville known for boating, bass fishing, and peaceful Blue Ridge scenery.
4,180 acres
Surface Area
106 miles
Shoreline
~20 miles
Lake Length
North Georgia
Mountain Setting
About Lake Nottely
Lake Nottely (also called Nottely Reservoir) is a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) lake located entirely in Union County, Georgia, in the mountains just northwest of Blairsville. Created when Nottely Dam was completed in 1942, the reservoir stretches roughly 20 miles up the Nottely River and is widely enjoyed for recreation, scenic views, and a quieter pace compared to larger metro-area lakes.
At full pool, Lake Nottely covers about 4,180 acres and offers approximately 106 miles of shoreline, with many coves that feel tucked-away and calm. The lake’s elevation at full pool is around 1,779 feet above mean sea level, contributing to its cool mountain atmosphere and year-round appeal. Its primary purpose is flood storage and water management, with hydropower added later (a generator was installed in the 1950s).
Key Features
Swimming Areas
Boating & Water Sports
Fishing (Diverse Species)
Marinas & Boat Services
Moccasin Creek State Park
Picnic Areas & Outdoor Leisure
Managed Water Levels
Wildlife Viewing
Quick facts (at-a-glance)
- Type: Mountain reservoir (TVA-managed)
- Location: Union County, North Georgia (near Blairsville)
- Surface Area: ~4,180 acres
- Shoreline: ~106 miles
- Length: ~20 miles
- Full Pool Elevation: ~1,779 ft (MSL)
- Built: Nottely Dam completed in 1942
- Dam Size: ~184 ft high, ~2,300 ft long
- Primary Purposes: Flood storage & flow regulation (hydropower added later)
Lake Nottely Vacation Homes For Rent
What you can do there
- Go boating and cruise the long shoreline: Lake Nottely is made for a classic “lake day” on a pontoon or runabout. Start with open-water cruising, then duck into coves where the water is calmer and the shoreline feels more private.
- Anchor in a quiet cove and relax: The lake’s many inlets are great for floating, sunbathing, and casual swimming. Choose coves away from main traffic lanes for a calmer, safer hangout.
- Fish across seasons: Anglers commonly work points, creek mouths, and deeper areas (including near the dam zone) depending on time of year. It’s a strong lake for those who like changing tactics as conditions shift.
- Kayak and paddleboard at sunrise/sunset: Early morning glassy water and evening light are ideal for paddlers. Protected coves are especially beginner-friendly when you want less chop and fewer wakes.
- Enjoy the swimming beach at a public park: Poteete Creek Park is a popular family-friendly spot with a designated swimming beach area plus picnic options and amenities for a full-day outing.
- Picnic, camp, and make it a weekend: Campground facilities in the area make it easy to turn a lake visit into an overnight trip, with quick access back to Blairsville for supplies and dining.
- Take photos and watch wildlife: Wooded shoreline and mountain light create great photography moments. In quieter areas, you may spot birds and other wildlife—especially during early and late hours.
- Combine lake time with a mountain hike: Many visitors pair a morning paddle or fishing session with an afternoon hike or scenic drive nearby, making Lake Nottely a flexible base for North Georgia adventures.
Access, marinas & ramps
Lake Nottely offers multiple access points, including county-maintained park access and several public ramps around the shoreline. The area is known to have two marinas and multiple public launch options, giving boaters flexibility depending on where they’re staying on the lake.
- Poteete Creek Park (Union County): A top public recreation hub with boat ramp access plus picnic facilities and a swimming beach. It’s a common choice for families who want amenities in one place.
- Swimming beach + day-use comforts: This area includes key conveniences (like restrooms and a bathhouse with showers), making it easy to stay all day without “roughing it.”
- Multiple public boat ramps: Public ramps around Lake Nottely provide access at different points, helpful for avoiding long drives when you’re staying on a specific side of the lake.
- Marina support nearby: Marinas in the area can provide lake services and rentals (where available), plus helpful local guidance on current conditions.
- Arrive early on peak weekends: Summer weekends and holiday periods can be busy at popular access locations. Early arrival helps with smoother launching and easier parking.
- Check lake level before you tow: As a managed reservoir, water levels can change. Checking level updates before launching helps you plan for shallow coves and ramp conditions.
- Local supplies are close: Blairsville is the best nearby hub for fuel, groceries, ice, bait/tackle, and last-minute boating items.
Safety & regulations
- Wear life jackets when it matters most: Keep properly sized life jackets for everyone onboard, and strongly consider wearing them while paddling, in rough water, or when kids are on deck.
- Stay alert for changing conditions: Mountain weather can shift quickly. Wind can build chop on open water—when conditions change, move into coves or reduce speed for safety.
- Respect no-wake areas and docks: Slow down near shorelines, docks, and swimmers. Minimizing wake protects property, improves safety, and keeps the lake enjoyable for everyone.
- Watch for submerged structure: Like many reservoirs, Lake Nottely can have submerged timber and changing depths—especially when water levels are lower. Use marked channels and proceed cautiously in unfamiliar coves.
- Use navigation lights at dusk: Evening lake time is beautiful, but visibility drops fast around coves. Ensure your lights work and return to the ramp before it’s fully dark if you’re not experienced.
- Follow Georgia fishing requirements: A valid Georgia fishing license is required for most anglers. Check current rules for limits and seasons before your trip.
- Know the rules where you launch: Park and ramp rules can vary by location (passes, hours, seasonal access). Review posted signage so you’re set up for a smooth day.
Gallery
Nearby highlights & suggested day trips
- Blairsville, Georgia: The nearest town for dining, shopping, local services, and seasonal festivals—perfect for a quick break from the water.
- Meeks Park: A community hub that hosts major local festivals and events and is a go-to spot for a relaxed afternoon.
- Vogel State Park: One of Georgia’s oldest state parks, known for hiking, mountain scenery, and classic North Georgia outdoor vibes.
- Brasstown Bald: Georgia’s highest point with a visitor center and sweeping views—an iconic day trip from the lake.
- Russell–Brasstown Scenic Byway: A nationally recognized scenic drive through mountain gaps and valleys with overlooks, interpretive stops, and access to trails.
- Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway: A beautiful mountain drive often included in the Russell–Brasstown loop—especially popular for fall color and overlooks.
- Chattahoochee National Forest: Huge nearby public lands with trails, streams, scenic drives, and countless outdoor options.
- Appalachian Trail access (nearby segments): The region’s mountain roads connect you to famous hiking corridors and viewpoints in the North Georgia range.
Events & community
Lake Nottely sits right next to a lively mountain community. Blairsville and Union County host seasonal festivals, arts events, and heritage celebrations—great for visitors who want more than just lake time.
- Sorghum Festival (Meeks Park): A long-running fall festival celebrating sorghum syrup making, crafts, food, and community traditions.
- Scottish Festival & Highland Games: An annual heritage event (traditionally held in June) with games, music, and cultural activities.
- Butternut Creek Festival: A popular summer arts-and-crafts festival hosted at Meeks Park.
- Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival: A downtown Blairsville seasonal event known for regional crafts and live music.
- Downtown Blairsville seasonal celebrations: Holiday events and community gatherings that bring the town square to life.
- Outdoor races & recreation events: The region hosts periodic outdoor activities—check local event calendars for current listings.
Lake Location
Lake Details
Surface Area: ~4,180 acres
Max Depth: ~100 ft
Elevation: ~1,779 ft
Avg. Temp: ~80°F (summer)
Fish Species: 10+
Open: Year-round
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