From the humble beginnings in the lush Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, diverse springs, streams and creeks become the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers. These two mighty rivers ultimately join forces to form the most visited U.S. Corps of Engineers project in the nation; the deep, sparkling, elegance of our shimmering Lake Sidney Lanier.

Named for the 19th Century poet, Sidney Clopton Lanier, whose love of the areas scenic beauty inspired him to compose the "Song of the Chattahoochee, "Lanier was conceived in 1946 and the lake began to fill in 1957 after Buford Dam was complete. It quickly grew to encompass 38,000 liquid acres and 600 miles of a varied topographic shoreline. Its vast banks border five counties in north metro Atlanta, with the lion's share of shoreline adjacent to Forsyth and Hall Counties. Lake Lanier is the largest man made lake near a metropolitan area in the nation, has the largest floating marina in the world (Holiday) and a well-developed road network including GA Hwy 400 and I 85, 985, to quickly get its visitors and commuters alike, lost in all its natural splendor…

Boating, sailing, fishing, skiing, picnicking or just sightseeing are all typical pleasures to be experienced here, in addition to the many day-use launching ramps and camping areas cared for by the Corps of Engineers. There are also commercial attractions namely, Lake Lanier Islands, two major resort hotels, 10 floating marinas and 7 sailing clubs. Lanier's hospitalities hosted the rowing and sprint canoe/kayak competition in the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Lastly, there are those extraordinary lakefront refuges that make coming home after the day's rat race so worthwhile. Lake Lanier's property and real estate afford you a sense of resort vacation life all year around. Just imagine gazing on the brilliant golden-orange reflection off the mirrored surface at sunset or splashing into that sparkling water just outside your own back door. And oh…..those hot summer nights!