Buford Dam, built in South Hall by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s, created 38,000-acre Lake Lanier with its 540 miles of shoreline. Millions of visitors each year now enjoy recreational water sports provided by the lake, easily accessed from Atlanta via several major highways. Additional diversification in the county’s economic base has come with new industries attracted by Lake Lanier, Hall County and its quality of life.

While Hall’s population has grown 40% since 1990, it continues to build on its historic base as the primary center of Northeast Georgia: its banking and financial center; the regional seat of the Federal Court; the health center, with more than 300 physicians and the region’s largest major hospital; the educational center, with Brenau University, Gainesville College, Lanier Technical College, Riverside Military Academy, two public school systems and several prominent private schools; the sports center, with headquarters of the Atlanta Falcons, Road Atlanta, Olympic rowing and canoe/kayak facilities, several championship golf courses and dozens of public parks and camping areas; the arts center, with a wealth of cultural organizations, societies, groups and clubs. Uniquely Southern, rich in history but constantly evolving and progressing, Hall County offers both newcomers and long-time residents a superb environment unmatched anywhere in the world.

Welcome to Lake Lanier!

Nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains lies Lake Lanier, one of America’s favorite lakes.  Over 7.5 million people a year choose to visit Lanier. With over 692 miles of shoreline, the lake is well known for its aqua-blue colored water, spectacular scenery and variety of recreational activities. Constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950’s, Lake Lanier is a multi-purpose lake that provides for flood protection, power production, water supply, navigation, recreation and fish and wildlife management.

Lake Lanier is one of 464 lakes in 43 states constructed and operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. It has won the best operated lake of the year award in 1990, 1997 and 2002.

Family Boating on Lake Lanier

Sky view of lake Lanier Buford