The Ultimate Vacation Guide to Lake Oconee
Experience true southern hospitality at Lake Oconee! The beautiful Lake area has so much to offer, from incredible fishing spots to amazing dining options and exciting events. Whether you're here to enjoy a round of golf in the morning or a peaceful boat cruise at sunset, we're here to ensure you make the most of your time in Georgia's Lake Country. Join us and discover the best ways to embrace the year-round vacation vibes at Lake Oconee!
Get the LO Down on Lake Oconee’s Past
Lake Oconee, a reservoir formed in 1979 by the construction of Wallace Dam, is located in Morgan, Greene, and Putnam counties in Georgia. Named after the Okonee branch of the Creek Indians, the lake is separated from its sister lake, Lake Sinclair, by the dam. With its impressive 400 miles of picturesque shoreline and an abundance of fish, Lake Oconee is a popular destination for fishing tournaments, ranking as the third most frequented lake in Georgia for such events. In addition to its fishing attractions, the lake is now home to a luxurious resort that appeals to both celebrities and golf enthusiasts, making it the perfect destination for a wide range of interests.
Historic Places & Faces of Lake Oconee
Embark on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Lake Oconee's past residents with the Rural Georgia Authors Tour. Take the opportunity to explore the lives and works of renowned literary figures such as Alice Walker, Joel Chandler Harris, and Flannery O'Connor in Milledgeville. This tour allows you to make stops along the way, immersing yourself in the world of these incredible authors.
Come and explore the historic beauty of The Old Gaol, the oldest remaining masonry jail in Georgia. Constructed in 1807, this remarkable structure was commissioned by the Superior Court of Greene County and was built using locally sourced granite. The jail boasts walls that are two feet thick, giving it a strong and sturdy presence. Venture downstairs to view the unique cells, reminiscent of European catacombs. While you're in the area, don't miss the chance to visit the charming towns of Downtown Greensboro and Visit Eatonton. Both towns offer a wealth of historical destinations and cultural experiences for you to enjoy.
Experience the beauty of nature and explore the rich history of the Woodland Indians by embarking on a hike at Rock Eagle or Rock Hawk. These remarkable archeological sites, located east of the Mississippi River, boast the only two bird effigy mounds in the region. Dating back an incredible 1,000 to 3,000 years, these mounds were thoughtfully crafted by the indigenous people of the Woodland era. Immerse yourself in the past as you wander through these historic sites and be captivated by their ancient charm.
Fun Things to Do AT Lake Oconee
A visit to the Lake Oconee area would not be complete without a trip to Oconee Brewing Company. Don't miss their popular blonde ale, Hey Man. And if beer isn't your preference, they also offer refreshing hard seltzers on tap and locally sourced wine made with Georgia Grown Grapes! Additionally, be sure to take a look at their extensive events calendar featuring exciting activities like corn hole tournaments, concerts, comedy shows, and more.
Experience the excitement of craft beer at Bruzze Brewing! Indulge in a variety of flavors and styles while enjoying a lively atmosphere. Join them on weekends for delicious food truck fare and on Thursdays for trivia nights. With a calendar filled with exciting events, Bruzze Brewing is the perfect destination for a great time.
Experience the vibrant culture of the Lake Oconee area with a visit to The Plaza Arts Center, Festival Hall, and Madison-Morgan Cultural Center. These cultural venues not only provide history museums but also feature live performances by talented artists from both local and national backgrounds.
When visiting Lake Oconee, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore exclusive boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind items! Oconee Art Box Gallery offers a curated collection of handcrafted items and artwork created by talented local artists. And make sure to check out Christine's Jewelers and Accessories, the ultimate destination for fashionable shoes, clothing, and exquisite jewelry.
When visiting the Lake Oconee area, it would be incomplete without mentioning the lake itself. To fully enjoy your time on the water, you can rent a boat, jet ski, wakeboard, kayak, and more from Oconee Wild Watersports. If you're interested in purchasing your own watercraft, you can visit WaterSports Central or Justice Marina.
If you’re looking to just sit back and relax with the whole family, enjoy a bag of popcorn while catching one of the latest movie at Parkside Main 8. On the weekends, you can visit their Balcony Bar and Grill, which offers a full drink menu as well as burgers, pizza, chicken tenders and soft pretzels.
Make the most of your vacation by treating yourself to a massage at Therapeutic Massage & Wellness Spa or Southern Laser Medical Spa & Healing Arts. Relax and recharge, and don't forget to stay hydrated with IV Wellness Solutions. They offer hydration IV therapy and more! For some additional relaxation, head over to Zen Relaxing Wellness Center, where you can enjoy facials, saunas, a salt room, and more!
If you're a fan of golf, the Lake Oconee area is the ultimate destination. With its gorgeous and extensive golf courses, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. One highly recommended choice is the Harbor Club at Lake Oconee, which is home to one of the top ten golf courses in Georgia. Another great option is to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee or Reynolds Lake Oconee, where you'll have access to five incredible courses, including the famous Landing Lake Oconee. This par-72 course, designed by the renowned architect Bob Cupp, was the very first golf course on Lake Oconee. If you're short on time, you can enjoy a round of golf by playing nine holes at the Uncle Remus Golf Course.
The Best Restaurants at Lake Oconee
When it comes to dining options at Lake Oconee, there are numerous choices available. If you're in the mood for a more elevated dining experience, two local favorites to consider are Lake Oconee Bistro and Lake House Gastro Pub. The Lake Oconee Bistro offers a diverse menu that will satisfy everyone in your group, and it is open for business every day of the week. On the other hand, the Lake House Gastro Pub provides a unique culinary experience with its use of fresh ingredients and a thoughtfully crafted beverage selection, ensuring that there's something to suit every palate. Dough Daddy Dough is also a fantastic option for dinner with its fresh Chicago style food.
In Lake Oconee, you'll find two fantastic cafes: Cafe 44 and Sweet Kneads Cafe and Bakery. Cafe 44 is the ideal spot for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. Their Denver Burger and Energy Bars are both delicious choices. Meanwhile, Sweet Kneads Cafe and Bakery is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch. Don't miss out on their delectable chicken salad or award-winning quiche. Whichever cafe you choose, you're in for a treat at Lake Oconee.
Don't forget to try Chef Deborah Johnson's stunning food boards while you're here! Perfect for sharing with a party of four to eight guests.
The Best Places to Stay at Lake Oconee
Make yourself at home in a luxurious vacation house booked through St James Vacation Homes. Their Concierge Team is dedicated to providing excellent customer service at every step of the way - from making your reservation, handling payments, and ensuring a seamless check-in process. No matter your needs or requests, St James Vacation Homes is committed to delivering quality service and ensuring your vacation is everything you dream it to be.
For camping enthusiasts, Oconee Springs Park is the perfect destination. Situated on twelve acres of land with stunning views of Lake Sinclair, the park offers both RV sites and fully furnished cabins. In addition to its picturesque location, the park boasts a range of amenities, including a playground, volleyball area, beach, boat ramp, and a newly constructed Event Center. Take advantage of the beautiful lake by renting a pedal boat, kayak, or paddleboard for a memorable outdoor experience.
Whether you prefer activities on the water or on the putting green, the Lake Oconee area is the perfect destination for both a family vacation or a romantic getaway. Be sure to explore our Calendar of Events for more exciting adventures in and around Lake Oconee!
Have a fantastic vacation!
The LOL Team
Here are a few guides to check out for more fun around Lake Oconee!
