Ultimate Vacation Guide to Lake Oconee
Experience true southern hospitality at Lake Oconee! This exquisite middle Georgia lake area encompasses a lovely natural world which boasts some incredible fishing spots, hiking trails, and bird watching havens; as well as some truly amazing culinary establishments and top tier cultural experiences.
Regardless if you are here to enjoy a round of golf in the morning or a peaceful boat cruise at sunset, it is our wish to ensure that you have an opportunity to sample all of the unique characteristics that make Georgia’s Lake Country an absolute jewel among recreational lake communities.
Join us and discover some of the best ways to embrace the year-round vacation vibes at Lake Oconee!
Click on the business name for additional information.
Read “The Ultimate Guide to Vacations on Lake Sinclair” , at our sister site, Lake Sinclair Life.
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 assortment of interests.
The Best Places to Stay at Lake Oconee
CAMPING
Oconee Springs Park
109 South Spring Road
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 485-8423
For camping enthusiasts, Oconee Springs Park is the perfect destination as well as Eatonton’s best-kept secret. Built by Putnam County and the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation in the 1960’s and 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 scenic 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.
Rental Properties
St. James Vacation Homes
Reservation Concierge: (706) 817-3828
Make yourself at home in a luxurious vacation house booked through St James Vacation Homes. Perfectly situated in the heart of Georgia’s Lake Country, St. James Vacation Homes is a locally owned premier vacation rental and management company.
With nearly 30 homes in our program, they are the largest vacation rental/management company for the Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair area. 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.
Fun Things to Do AT Lake Oconee
CULTURAL EVENTS
Festival Hall
201 North Main Street
Greensboro, GA 30642
Located in the heart of historic Downtown Greensboro.
While vacationing in the gorgeous lake country, indulge in some local entertainment at Festival Hall., Festival Hall acts as the official cultural arts center in the Greensboro, Greene County, and Lake Oconee region.
This local treasure offers a space for everything, from live music and weddings to private business meetings and educational performances. Festival Hall offers a rich historical background that adds a new level of interest to any event.
Whether it is a promotional event for a local organization or a theatrical production by The Lake Country Players, the venue stays true to its roots by promoting the community in every endeavor.
Click here and take a trip to an incredible performance near you!
Madison-Morgan Cultural Center
434 South Main Street
Madison, GA 30650
(706) 342-4743
Get two for one when your vacation excursions bring you to this lake country gem. The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center models history both inside and out. Their permanent exhibits include the 1895 Schoolroom Exhibition allowing visitors to view original desks, blackboards, and other accessories.
The Arts and Crafts Gallery includes pottery, lamps, metalware, and other pieces from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
In addition, the Piedmont History Museum provides an inside look at the development of the area including how it came to be and the typical lifestyle of many individuals. Come and see the 1875 Winship and Brother Cotton Gin that represents the significance of cotton in the South.
Experience the vibrant culture of the local community as you also appreciate its rich heritage.
The Plaza Arts Center
305 North Madison Avenue
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 923-1655
Since opening in 2008, The Plaza Arts Center has become a cultural mainstay for the Lake Country. On your next vacation, you could be one of over 50,000 people visit annually to enjoy a variety of programs, attend meetings and events or to partake in educational opportunities.
The Plaza Arts Center consistently delivers an outstanding level of entertainment and services as a gathering place for local artisans, social and civic groups.
It’s no great surprise, The Plaza is commonly referred to as “the Heartbeat of Downtown Eatonton!”
INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT
Parkside Main 8
1050 Parkside Main
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 999-9990
Exhausted from too much vacation fun? Slow down and catch the latest blockbuster at Parkside Main 8, your friendly, well stocked local entertainment spot. Located in Lake Oconee Village, Parkside Main 8 has eight all digital screens ready to entertain you, your family, or friends.
They offer a wide variety of showtimes to accommodate your movie-watching preference! Movie enthusiasts can take advantage of affordable ticket prices during the weekdays from Monday to Thursday.
Friday through Sunday customers can expect more than just your traditional popcorn and soda combo. The Balcony Bar and Grill offers a variety of food including burgers, pizza, soft pretzels, chicken tenders along with a full drink menu.
Purchase your tickets online or engage with our friendly onsite staff to assist you in procuring the best seat in the house!
GOLF
Harbor Club at Lake Oconee
1111 Polo Circle Suite 102
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 453-9690
Come to play and want to stay? 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. Their award-winning 18-hole course welcomes all skill levels and embraces rolling hills, open meadows, dense woodlands and curving lakeshore.
Whether looking to build the home of your dreams or revel in the comfort of a move-in-ready residence, Harbor Club offers an array of real estate opportunities for you to craft your greatest lake lifestyle. Find your place on the lake or amidst Harbor Club’s lush acreage with an available new home or resale or build your dream home with one of Harbor Club’s acclaimed local building professionals.
Another excellent option is to book a luxurious vacation 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.
Oconee Wild Watersports
1133 Greensboro Road
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 816-0166
Nobody knows the water like a local. Kiersten Tuel started Oconee Wild Watersports in 2012 after a lifetime of loving the lake environment. She is well versed in the local community and her chosen industry.
Customers can choose to rent from pontoons, kayaks, paddle boards and Jet Skis as well as wakeboards, tubes, water skis, Chaparral Ski Boat, Sea Pro Citation deck boat, and Elite Tritoons with 200hp or 250hp. They still offer delivery service, which many had come to love.
Oconee Wild Watersports also upgrades their fleet every two years and provide captains for their boats.
Too busy to stop in? Try their convenient and easy-to-use online reservation system.
Watersports Central at Oconee
1011 Park Trace
Greensboro, GA 30642
Watersports Central at Oconee is here to get your vacation on track and in the water! For over two decades, WaterSports Central has been fulfilling customers' boat ownership dreams. They excel in delivering premier boating experiences through top-quality products crafted by leading manufacturers and overseen by a team of dedicated industry experts.
Operating in Georgia and South Carolina, WaterSports Central aims to provide unparalleled boating and water sports service, serving as the exclusive retailer for Nautique, Chris-Craft, and South Bay Pontoons.
They also offer an extensive pro-shop, and luxury garaged boat storage, enhancing your boating journey.
Historic Places & Faces of Lake Oconee
Rural Georgia Authors Tour
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.
Downtown Greensboro
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 453-7674
Downtown Greensboro is home to vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment. The historic district features regionally known restaurants, fabulous antiques, boutique clothing stores, home decor, well appointed gift shops, indulgent spas and a noteworthy brewery.
This eclecitic community provides pieces made by talented Georgia artisans such as antiques or handcrafted art and is proud of its heritage and cultural offerings.
Come and explore the historic beauty of The Old Gaol, the oldest remaining masonry jail in Georgia. Venture downstairs to view the unique cells, reminiscent of European catacombs.
No matter where your Downtown Greensboro exploration begins, you are sure to find more reasons to visit again and again!
Rock Hawk
125 Wallace Dam Road
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 485-7701
No vacation would be complete without getting to know about the native heritage of the region.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 archaeological 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.
Rock Eagle
350 Rock Eagle Road
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 485-7701
Vacation Road Trip on the menu? Just off U.S. Highway 441 north of Eatonton, the famed Rock Eagle Effigy Mound is one of Georgia's most stunning ancient landmarks. The stone tower build by the CCC workers in the 30s provides a stunning view of the Rock Eagle and is a must for anyone visiting the site, although the stairs can be strenuous.
A paved pathway circles the effigy and there are interpretive panels to explain the significance of the site. The park is beautifully maintained.
The Rock Eagle Effigy is surrounded by Rock Eagle 4H Center, built during the 1950s and thought to be the largest such 4H center in the world. Access is designed, however, so that visitors can tour the Rock Eagle Effigy without disrupting or intruding upon the activities of the young men and women at the center.
shopping
Christine's Jewelers and Accessories,
105 Harmony Crossing Suite 10
Eatonton, GA 31024
When visiting Lake Oconee, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore exclusive boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind items! Christine's Jewelers and Accessories is the ultimate destination for fashionable shoes, clothing, and exquisite jewelry.
Expert assistance and exceptional customer service await you, ensuring you find exactly what you're looking for. Retail therapy is key to a relaxing vacation and their fine jewelry will instill happiness guaranteed!
Come discover the sparkle and elegance of Christine's Jewelers & Accessories at Harmony Crossing Shopping Center today.
Oconee Art Box Gallery
105 Clack Court Suite 500
Eatonton, Georgia 31024
Oconee Art Box Gallery offers a curated collection of unique items and artwork created by talented local artists. Oconee Art Box Gallery stands behind the quality and craftsmanship of their products. All their items are handmade, ensuring both the artistry and durability of each piece.
They take pride in their commitment to promoting and supporting local artists, creating a platform for them to showcase their creations and share their talent with the community.
Traveling provides a great opportunity to view and acquire uncommon art. Regardless if you're searching for a special gift or a masterpiece to adorn your home, Oconee Art Box’s knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you and ensure you have a great experience.
“SPA-LASH” INTO RELAXATION
IV Wellness Center
646 Old Phoenix Road Suite C
Eatonton, GA 31024
(678) 725-4792
Does vacation leave you depleted? Looking for holistic wellness and nutrition therapy services in Lake Oconee? Look no further than IV Wellness Solutions. They are committed to providing you with the best solutions for your health, incorporating a holistic approach to your care.
No matter what you need - whether it's a quick immunity boost, rehydration after an intense workout, or long-term health management - IV Wellness Solutions is here to support you. Their name says it all - they promise to deliver the highest quality solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Lake Oconee Botox
1093 Lake Oconee Parkway
Eatonton, GA 31024
(678) 503-4131
Looking to replenish your physical self while enjoying your vacation? At Lake Oconee Botox, Marissa is able to help the Lake Oconee community receive quality skincare and cosmetic injectables that improves skin texture, delays aging and boosts self confidence.
Lake Oconee Botox offers non-invasive skin treatments including Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels and microneedling and much more.
All these procedures can help slow the aging process and improve skin imperfections without significant downtime or cost.
Magnolia Medical Group
946 Harmony Road
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 991-5320
Magnolia Medical Group is a fully integrated medical, chiropractic, and physical therapy practice. Trust board-certified doctors to provide you and your loved ones with an impressive assortment of wellness procedures, ranging from regenerative medical treatments, nutritional counseling, and platelet rich plasma injections, as well as many other options.
Their team will prepare a custom therapy plan sure to make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated!
Click here to shedule your wellness vacation today!
Sisu Hair Studio
1093 Greensboro Road Suite 110
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 485-7750
Sisu Hair Studio is just the place to freshen up your look while in town for vacation. They offer a remarkable variety of cuts, colorings and hair treatments. Owner Brittany Kinnett and her team are equipped to handle a range of styles including women, men, blowouts, updos, smoothings and extensions.
When it comes to hair coloring treatments, Sisu Hair Studio’s team offers one-step coloring, partial highlights, full highlights, toners, glosses, balayage and color correction. Clients can also receive facial waxing.
Rest assured that after days spent playing in the sunshine and recreational waters, Sisu Hair Studio is waiting to assist in maintaining your beauty.
Make sure you take advantage of their May-June special, buy one salon product and get the second product at half off. That’s a vacation for your wallet!
Southern Laser Medical Spa & Healing Arts
921 Harmony Road Suite 2
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 485-7200
Although you’ll find no shortage of spas and spa treatments in the Lake Oconee area, this one is a genuine medical spa owned and operated by medical professionals. You deserve to treat yourself as you vacation in our beautiful lake country.
Southern Laser Medical Spa & Healing Arts takes the holistic relaxation and pampering you would expect from a luxury spa and elevates it to a scientific level that can actively cure skin problems, reshape the body, and enhance the appearance in ways that last for months or years instead of days.
Stop in or call for an appointment to get started on your own beauty and wellness transformation. Serving you is their pleasure!
Spa Peau Parfaite
2151 Eatonton Road Bldg H Suite 2
Madison, GA 330650
(706) 343-4241
Spa Peau Parfaite translated from French means The Perfect Skin Spa. Be sure to take care of your skin as you recreate in our incomparable lake country. Proudly offering modern medical spa technology combined with the customized client experience in a luxurious environment.
Morpheus8 microneedling, Lumecca IPL, Diolaze hair removal in addition to Botox, Juvaderm and other options are performed by competent, accredited staff. Spa Peau Parfaite does more than fix the problem, they heal the source!
Give your skin a vacation from sun, sea, and wind!
Theraputic Massage & Wellness Spa
1051 Village Park Drive Suite 102
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 999-2290
Does vacation leave you needing mind and body restored? Book rejuvenating services at Theraputic Massage & Wellness Spa. Veleanar Horton, the owner of Therapeutic Massage & Wellness Spa, graduated from the Atlanta School of Massage in 2013 and is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) which is the largest non-profit, professional association serving Massage Therapists, massage students and massage schools.
She is trained in a variety of modalities, such as Reflexology, Myofascial Release, Orthopedic Massage, and Full Body Lymphatic Drainage Massage.
She gains immense satisfaction serving the community and expanding her business for wellness. Vel gives God all the glory for what He has done.
The Well at Lake Oconee
1000 Cowles Clinic Way Suite D-100
Greensboro, GA 30642
(813) 352-9851
Need a vacation from your vacation? The Well at Lake Oconee is a wellness destination focused on mind, body, and spirit. Founded by Sean and Amy, who have been advocates of contrast therapy for over 20 years,
The Well offers sauna and cold plunge experiences, yoga classes, and other mind-body-spirit activities to the Lake Oconee area.
Guests at The Well face various challenges, such as joint and muscle pain, high stress levels, and poor circulation due to inflammation. To address these issues, The Well provides tailored solutions, including their signature Contrast Therapy - Sauna and Cold Plunge Nordic Experience, as well as a range of yoga and stretch classes.
The facility is also designed to foster a sense of community among like-minded individuals on their wellness journeys. Drop-ins welcome!
Zapien’s Salon
1051 Village Park Drive Suite 104
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 453-4213
Take a break during your vacation and schedule yourself a self indulgent experience at Zapien's Salon, the focus goes beyond just creating beautiful hair. They strive to create an inviting, welcoming atmosphere where clients can relax and indulge in a pampering session.
Each visit to Zapien's Salon is an opportunity to feel refreshed, renewed, and empowered.
Ready to embark on the journey to your dream hair? Book your appointment at Zapien's Salon today and let Norman and his talented team work their magic to bring your hair dreams to life.
The Best DINING at Lake Oconee
Bruzze Brewery
170 Scott Road Suite 2
Eatonton, GA 31024
Experience the excitement of craft beer at Bruzze Brewing! Indulge in a variety of flavors and styles while enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Regardless if you're a local looking for a new favorite hangout spot or a visitor in search of a taste of Georgia's craft beer scene, a visit to Bruzze Brewing is a must. Their commitment to quality, community, and creating unforgettable experiences sets them apart from the rest.
So, next time you find yourself in Lake Oconee, make sure to stop by Bruzze Brewing for a truly memorable beer excursion. Maintaining a calendar filled with exciting events, Bruzze Brewing is the perfect destination for a great time.
Cafe 44
1051 Village Park Drive Suite 101
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 999-9744
Café 44 prides itself on offering something to suit every customer's palate. In the mornings, patrons can imbibe freshly roasted coffee from Thomasville, Georgia, along with an enticing selecion of delectable, homemade bakery treats.
For a quick and delicious lunch, the café offers crisp salads and artisan sandwiches, with their California Club sandwich being recognized as one of the top 100 sandwiches in Georgia.
Additionally, Café 44 provides made-to-order breakfast options and offers catering services outside regular hours for a more personalized experience.
Chef Deborah
Pick up-orders only
(770) 713-9034
Chef Deborah also provides delicious meal plans and catered dinners. Packaged in disposable containers, these meals are ideal for busy families as the food arrives ready to reheat.
Chef Deborah offers a wide selection of salads, main courses and mouth-watering desserts ensuring that there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Food boards, however, are her specialty. No matter if you are wanting a romantic date night or looking for something to bring to the next dock party, Chef Deborah delivers and impressive assortment of different style food boards ranging in size.
Her food boards serve anywhere from four to eight guests and are able to be ordered and delivered to homes or boats. Locals and visitors alike recognize her well honed skills and consider every meal Chef Deborah makes a vacation from the usual!
Dough Daddy Dough
1124 Lake Oconee Parkway
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 816-8405
Brace yourself for culinary comfort as you revel in Dough Daddy Dough’s authentic delicacies! Everything is made with top shelf ingredients beginning with the homemade dough and sauce to Vienna sausages and hot dogs hailing straight from the Chicagoland area.
It would be shameful not to mention their delicious crepes served with whipped cream and strawberries for those craving sweet instead of savory!
Regardless it’s your first Chicago-style dog or the jovial, welcoming atmosphere the food truck provides, Dough Daddy Dough is sure to bring some joy and fulfillment into your day.
Lake House at Oconee
1137 Lake Oconee Pkwy
Eatonton, GA 31024
(762) 220-1212
Situated on the shores of serene Lake Oconee, Lake House Pub invites guests to indulge in a delightful dining experience in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. No matter if it's a casual lunch with friends or a romantic dinner by the lake, Lake House Pub aims to create memories that will be cherished for years to come.
With their dedication to top notch service, sensational food, and a picturesque location, Lake House Pub is not just a restaurant – it's an experience to be savored and shared.
Lake Oconee Bistro
1130 Lake Oconee Parkway
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 452-4400
If you're in search of a mouthwatering meal and a fantastic night out in Lake Oconee, your destination is LO Bistro. This locally owned establishment, led by William Burklo and his dedicated team, is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.
LO Bistro provides an inviting atmosphere, perfect for families and friends to gather and enjoy themselves. With their motto of "Live, Love, Lake," LO Bistro promises a delightful experience for all who visit.
Kick off your weekend with Fun Fridays at LO Bistro, featuring live local musicians from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. And that's not all – on Saturdays and Sundays, guests can unwind with a delicious weekend brunch served from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
Oconee Brewing Company
202 North West Street
Greensboro, GA 30642
(706) 920-1177
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!
They also have an onsite food truck, The Burch at OBC for tasty nibbles and a satisfying meal.
Oconee Brewing Company has a retail production facility and a tasting room that is open to the public. A 3,600 square foot Event Center includes an 18 foot high, floor to ceiling, glass curtain wall that opens to an outdoor patio. Voted “best special event venue” in the 2018 Lake Oconee Living Readers’ Choice Awards.
Additionally, be sure to take a look at their extensive events calendar featuring exciting activities like corn hole tournaments, concerts, comedy shows, and more.
Sweet Kneads
103 Clack Circle Suite 1000
Eatonton, GA 31024
(706) 484-1588
Variety is what you will find at Sweet Kneads. They are known for their award-winning quiche, bagels sourced from New York City and scrumptious pepperoni bread. Don't miss out on their delectable chicken salad or award-winning quiche. You will thank us for recommending these local standouts!
If you have a sweet tooth, you won't be disappointed either. The bakery specializes in heavenly sweet treats that can be enjoyed on-site or taken home.
Sweet Kneads is not just about the food, though. It is also about family and community. This woman-owned and operated restaurant has deep roots in the Lake Oconee area, and they prioritize sourcing their ingredients locally and crafting their meals with love.
Whether you're looking for a breakfast, lunch, or sweet indulgence, Sweet Kneads Bakery and Cafe has something to satisfy every craving. Come and taste the love and passion that goes into every dish at Sweet Kneads Bakery and Cafe in Lake Oconee.
No matter if you prefer leisurely or recreational activities on the water or would prefer a day on the putting green, the Lake Oconee area is the perfect destination for both a family vacation or a romantic getaway or even a solo trip adventure!
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!