Lake Nottely

Also called Nottely Reservoir, Lake Nottely is located in Union County, Georgia. It was formed in 1942 by damming the Nottely River. It extends 20 miles upstream to the town of Blairsville. Though built for flood control in the Tennessee River watershed, it also produces power and has subsequently made room for plenty of leisure activities in and around the area. With about 70% of its shoreline under the control of the United States Forest Service and undeveloped, there’s a lot of natural area to explore. In recent years, many new homes and properties have been developed, adding to the growing importance of Lake Nottely for recreation.

North Georgia Watersports is a stone’s throw from the banks of Lake Nottely, so we’re all about guiding locals and vacationers alike to this wonderful area for some great waterborne activities. We’ve put together a list of fantastic activities and reasons to visit Lake Nottely. When you visit from nearby Gainesville, Hiawassee, or Blue Ridge, Georgia, make sure to drop on by North Georgia Watersports! We have a great selection of pontoon and boat rentals as well as a stock of great boats for sale.

A Nearby Shore

Beautiful views abound at Lake Nottely, especially in autumn when the leaves are changing. Just two hours north of Atlanta, it’s like Lake Nottely is all of Northern Georgia’s backyard. Take a day trip or a weekend getaway in or around Blairsville. The laidback feeling runs from shore to town, with the Lake Nottely Improvement Association doing a lot to keep the surrounding area clean, fun, and safe. A strong local community makes keeping the lake clean and ready a breeze.

Watery Activities

Of course there’s incredible fishing at Lake Nottely. Locals have known that for a long time and are especially keen on the bass that are stocked for plenty of angling opportunities. There are guided tours available and some great boat rentals at North Georgia Watersports. And there are plenty of public launch sites so you can get your boat in the water as quickly and easily as possible. In addition to boating, Lake Nottely is also open for swimming. Anchor by the dam for a deep swim, or stick to the shore for in-and-out fun. There are cliffs and swings suitable for jumping into the lake, and canoe, kayaking, and quiet boating for those seeking a less strenuous leisure activity.

Off the Water

The Nottely Dam is an attraction in itself. The Tennessee Valley Authority manages the dam, which stretches almost 20 miles! You can stop in the middle and get out of your car to overlook the dam and read a little about its purpose. The dam isn’t just for recreation; it provides electricity in the area, as well as providing seasonal flood storage. There’s more about the dam and how it serves the community (beyond just being fun). There are also hiking trails, ranging from waterfront strolls to bike paths, and the impressive Meeks Park Nature Trails of the nearby Meeks Park. Meeks Park also has playing fields, a playground, skateboard park, disk golf and swimming pool. It’s also the site of several popular festivals like the Scottish Fest and Highland Games in June and the Sorghum Festival in October. Meeks is located on the South end or ‘small part’ of Lake Nottely. This is a quiet area with a bright red barn on the lake. It’s a favorite for photographs, or just a nice destination to explore.

Lake Nottely has plenty more to find and explore, from local secrets to fabulous eateries. The only way to experience all of it is to take a trip yourself. And when you do pass through, take time to stop off at North Georgia Watersports to talk boats, the lake, or just take a look at our great selection of new and used boats for sale and rent. We’re located near Lake Nottely in Blairsville, Georgia, two hours north of Atlanta and near Gainesville, Hiawassee, and Blue Ridge. We’re also proud to serve our neighbors in Murphy, North Carolina. Come in today!