Lake Hartwell Dam & Big Water Marina: A Relaxing Lake Escape From Atlanta

For Atlantans who want a quick break from city traffic and concrete, Lake Hartwell Dam and Big Water Marina offer a classic, laid‑back lake day without needing a full vacation. You get wide‑open water views, boating, swimming, fishing, and simple lakeside food — all within a realistic drive from the metro area.

Below is a practical guide tailored to Atlanta residents and visitors planning a day trip or quick overnight escape.

Where Lake Hartwell and Big Water Marina Are in Relation to Atlanta

Lake Hartwell sits on the Georgia–South Carolina border, roughly northeast of Atlanta. The Hartwell Dam and nearby Big Water Marina are on the South Carolina side of the lake, but they’re still commonly used by people coming from Atlanta.

Driving distance from Atlanta

From Downtown Atlanta:

• To the Hartwell Dam area: typically about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic
• To Big Water Marina: usually around 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes

Most Atlanta drivers take:

1. I‑85 North toward Greenville
2. Then cut over on regional highways (often through the Lavonia or Hartwell area) to reach the dam and marina

This makes Lake Hartwell more of a long day trip or easy overnight than a quick afternoon outing, especially if you’re starting from south or west metro Atlanta.

Why Lake Hartwell Works Well as an Atlanta Day Trip

For someone based in Atlanta, Lake Hartwell has a few advantages:

• Faster than the coast: You avoid the 4–5+ hour drive to beaches like Tybee Island or the Florida panhandle.
• Bigger water feel than small Georgia lakes: The scale of Lake Hartwell can feel closer to a small coastal inlet than a neighborhood reservoir.
• Mix of nature and amenities: You get state park access, marinas, casual restaurants, and boat rentals — without feeling completely remote.

If you’re deciding between north Georgia mountains and a lake escape, Hartwell is a good choice when you want boating, swimming, and open water views more than hiking.

Understanding the Lake Hartwell Dam Area

What the Hartwell Dam actually is

The Hartwell Dam is a major hydroelectric dam on the Savannah River, creating Lake Hartwell behind it. The dam itself sits near the town of Hartwell, Georgia, with access points in both Georgia and South Carolina.

This area offers:

• Scenic overlooks and viewpoints of the dam and lake
• Picnic areas on both sides of the border
• Access to Lake Hartwell State Park and Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area nearby
• Shoreline access for bank fishing in some designated spots

For an Atlanta visitor, the dam area is mostly about:

• Views and photos of the huge dam and wide water
• A relaxed picnic stop
• Pairing it with swimming, boating, or fishing at nearby parks and marinas

It is not a beach boardwalk or entertainment strip — think more quiet, open water and infrastructure than heavy tourism.

Safety and access

• Some roadways and viewpoints near the dam are open to the public, but access can change due to security or maintenance.
• There may be posted restrictions on where you can walk, park, or fish near the dam itself.
• For current conditions and rules, Atlantans can check with:
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Hartwell Lake Office
    5625 Anderson Highway
    Hartwell, GA 30643
    Phone: (706) 856‑0300

This office manages recreation areas, campsites, and certain facilities around the lake and is a reliable source for updated access information.

What to Expect at Big Water Marina

Big Water Marina is a full‑service marina on Lake Hartwell’s South Carolina shoreline, a popular choice for Atlanta boaters and lake‑day visitors.

While specific services and layouts can change, many visitors generally find:

• Boat rentals (such as pontoons or fishing boats)
• Boat slips and storage for those who bring their own boats
• Fuel dock for on‑the‑water refueling
• A marina store with basic supplies and snacks
• Often a casual lakeside bar or restaurant (hours and offerings vary by season)

You don’t need to be a boat owner to enjoy Big Water Marina — many Atlantans come for:

• Pontoon rentals for families or groups
• Swimming and floating off the boat
• Relaxed dockside food and drinks
• Enjoying sunset views over open water

Because services and rates can change, it’s wise to call ahead from Atlanta to confirm:

• Rental options
• Reservation policies
• Seasonal hours
• Any safety or age requirements

Lake Hartwell vs. Other Atlanta‑Area Lake Escapes

If you’re comparing Lake Hartwell (and Big Water Marina) with other options closer to Atlanta, this simple overview can help.

Why choose Lake Hartwell from Atlanta?

• You want more open, less congested water than some closer lakes.
• You’re okay with a longer drive in exchange for a more “destination” feel.
• You like pairing dam sightseeing, boating, and state park visits in one trip.

What Atlantans Typically Do in a Day at Lake Hartwell & Big Water Marina

A realistic Atlanta day trip itinerary often looks like:

1. Morning: Drive from Atlanta

   • Leave between 7:00–9:00 a.m. to avoid the worst traffic on I‑85.
   • Stop for breakfast or coffee along the way (many people use Commerce, Braselton, or Lavonia as break points).

2. Late Morning: Explore the Dam Area

   • Stop at one of the recreation areas near the Hartwell Dam.
   • Walk to a viewpoint for photos of the dam and lake.
   • Enjoy a short picnic or stretch break.

3. Midday to Afternoon: Big Water Marina & Lake Time

   • Head to Big Water Marina for:
     • A boat rental (if reserved ahead)
     • Time swimming, floating, or cruising the lake
     • Dockside food or snacks
   • If you’re not renting a boat, use nearby state park swim areas or shoreline spots for swimming and relaxing.

4. Late Afternoon: Slow Down the Day

   • Cruise the lake or relax at the marina while the sun lowers.
   • Many Atlanta visitors try to leave before it’s fully dark to keep the drive home easier, or choose to stay overnight nearby.

Swimming, Boating, and Fishing: What Atlanta Visitors Should Know

Swimming

• Lake Hartwell is popular for lake swimming and floating, typically from:
  • Designated swim beaches at parks
  • Off a rented pontoon boat
• Atlanta families should look for marked swim areas with:
  • Buoys or roped‑off zones
  • Nearby restrooms or picnic facilities

Conditions like water levels and clarity can vary with weather and season. Always watch for:

• Posted signs about swimming safety or temporary closures
• Boat traffic near unmarked swim spots

Boating

For those coming from Atlanta:

• Renting a boat at Big Water Marina is convenient if you don’t own one.
• If you’re towing your own boat from metro Atlanta, make sure you:
  • Confirm boat ramp locations and fees ahead of time
  • Understand South Carolina and Georgia boating regulations, since the lake spans both

Regardless of experience level, Atlanta boaters should be prepared for:

• Varying water depths and occasional underwater hazards
• Changing weather conditions over a large lake
• Required life jackets and safety gear

Fishing

Lake Hartwell is known regionally for bass and other sport fish. From Atlanta, many anglers:

• Trailer their boats from home to launch on Hartwell
• Hire a local fishing guide near Hartwell or Anderson, SC
• Fish from bank access areas or piers in public recreation areas

Check Georgia and South Carolina fishing license rules, as requirements and reciprocity can be specific for border waters.

When Is the Best Time for Atlanta Residents to Visit?

Time of year

• Spring (March–May): Milder temperatures, good for boating, hiking around lakeside parks, and fishing.
• Summer (June–August): Peak swimming and boating season; expect warmer water, more boat traffic, and stronger sun.
• Fall (September–November): Pleasant air temperatures, fall colors around the shoreline, usually less crowded than peak summer.
• Winter (December–February): Quieter atmosphere; better for scenic drives, fishing, and peaceful getaways instead of swimming.

Day of the week and timing from Atlanta

• Weekdays tend to be calmer on the lake and roads.
• Weekends, especially summer Saturdays, can bring:
  • Heavier I‑85 traffic between Atlanta and the lake
  • More boat and ramp traffic at marinas and parks

For Atlanta residents, leaving early in the morning and planning a return before very late evening can make the trip more enjoyable and safer.

Practical Planning Tips for Atlantans

Reservations and calling ahead

Because you’re driving from Atlanta, it’s worth confirming basics before you go:

• Boat rental reservations at Big Water Marina, especially on summer weekends or holidays
• Marina hours and on‑site restaurant hours
• Parking or ramp fees at parks or launch areas
• Any special events or closures around the dam or state parks

A quick call can help you avoid long waits or surprise changes after a two‑hour drive.

What to pack from Atlanta

A simple Lake Hartwell day‑trip checklist:

• Swimsuits and quick‑dry towels
• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses 😎
• Refillable water bottles and snacks
• A small soft cooler (check rules for glass containers)
• Life jackets if you have your own (boat rentals typically provide them, but some families prefer their own gear)
• Phone chargers and optional power bank
• Printed or saved directions, in case of spotty reception around smaller roads

Fuel and food on the way

On the route from Atlanta via I‑85, there are many stops for:

• Fuel (especially around Braselton, Commerce, and Lavonia)
• Fast‑casual dining and coffee
• Grocery stores if you prefer to pack fresh picnic items

Planning a quick stop just before you leave the interstate can help you arrive at the lake ready to relax rather than having to hunt for food immediately.

Options for Staying Overnight

If you decide the drive back to Atlanta the same day is too much, the Lake Hartwell area around the dam and Big Water Marina offers:

• Motels and hotels in nearby towns such as Hartwell (GA) or Anderson (SC)
• Cabin rentals, lake houses, and vacation homes
• Campgrounds and RV sites managed by:
  • Georgia Department of Natural Resources (for some Georgia‑side parks)
  • South Carolina State Parks (for parks like Lake Hartwell State Park)
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers around the lake

Because lodging availability can shift with seasons, many Atlanta visitors book at least a few days in advance, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods.

How to Decide if Lake Hartwell Dam & Big Water Marina Are Right for You

From an Atlanta point of view, this lake escape is a good fit if you:

• Don’t mind 2+ hours of driving each way
• Want bigger, more open water than what’s closest to the city
• Enjoy a quieter, more natural setting with a functional, working dam as a scenic feature
• Plan ahead for boat rentals, swimming, and lakeside relaxation

If your priority is shorter drive time, closer lakes like Lanier or Allatoona may serve better for a half‑day. But if you’re looking for a full‑day or overnight lake adventure that feels more like getting away from Atlanta, combining Hartwell Dam with time at Big Water Marina is a strong, practical option.