Lake Chatuge
A mountain-ringed TVA lake on the Georgia and North Carolina line
The short answer
A big lake in the mountains
Lake Chatuge is a TVA reservoir on the Georgia and North Carolina line, close to Hiawassee, with ridgelines rising on all sides. On a calm morning the reflections do the work for you. It's about 35 minutes from Helen (21 miles), which makes it an easy day trip.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Built | TVA's Chatuge Dam was completed in 1942 |
| Size | About 7,000 acres of water; shoreline is often given as around 130 miles, mostly wooded |
| Depth | About 144 feet at the dam |
| Fish | Spotted and largemouth bass, hybrid bass and walleye are the usual catches |
| Drive from Helen | About 35 minutes via GA-75 and US-76 |
What to do on the lake
Fishing
You need a Georgia fishing license on the Georgia side. North Carolina rules apply once you cross the state line on the water, so check both.
Rent a boat
Boundary Waters Resort & Marina, 107 Boundary Waters Drive, Hiawassee, (706) 896-2530, rents pontoons, TriToons, runabouts, jet skis and kayaks. Guests who stay in its cabins get 10% off rentals.
Swim
Towns County operates a public beach on US-76. Check with the county for the season, amenities and whether lifeguards are on duty.
Stay on the water
Boundary Waters has lakefront cabins, and The Ridges Resort sits on the lake too. Call ahead for rentals and availability.
Fairgrounds and gardens on the shore
The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds sit on the lakeshore and host the Georgia Mountain Fair in August (August 13-21, 2027), the Fall Festival (October 9-11 and 15-17, 2026), Christmas in Lights and more. Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens, on the fairgrounds property, holds more than 400 varieties of rhododendron and native azalea, with the festival from mid-April through Mother's Day. Our fairgrounds guide lists dates and prices.
Pair it with a drive up Brasstown Bald
Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest point at 4,784 feet, is a short drive from the lake. Admission is $10 per adult 16 and up, with the shuttle included. Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris is close too, with an 18-hole golf course and a spa; see its site.
Common questions
How far is Lake Chatuge from Helen?
About 35 minutes and 21 miles to Hiawassee, via GA-75 and US-76.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. A Georgia license covers the Georgia side, and North Carolina regulations apply on North Carolina waters.
Is there a public beach?
Towns County runs a public beach on US-76. Check with the county for the season and amenities.
More to Explore
Related destinations, trails, and experiences nearby
