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Lake Rabun is the third lake out of six managed by the Georgia Power Company. Mathis Dam was completed in 1915, but  the lake was not actually impounded until almost ten years later. This delay was due to construction of a mile long tunnel dug between the lake and the power generator at Tallulah Falls. By 1925 the lake became a haven for many residents of Atlanta, who would make the day long trip by car to enjoy the area. Lake Rabun at an elevation of 1689 feet , with a surface area of 835 acres and 25 miles of shoreline, is the second largest lake in the six lake chain. While not as large as Lake Burton, Rabun offers water skiing, fishing, and wonderful afternoon cruises.

Family members have been building memories and community on Lake Rabun since 1915.  The Lake Rabun Association, was chartered on October,25 1928 as a succeeding organization to the “Lakemont Boat Club.”  The list of charter members read like Atlanta’s Who’s Who of the 1920’s. The original LRA became inactive shortly thereafter due to the Great Depression.  The current Lake Rabun Association was formed in 1970 and remains very active on both the lake and in Rabun County.

Lake Rabun remains a haven for many families.  With a proximity of only 90 miles from Atlanta, it is the perfect getaway from the heat and traffic of Atlanta summers. The traditions and love for the lake remain constant, even as vintage wood boats and modern jet skis cross paths. The community is very strong and active due to the efforts of the Lake Rabun Association.

The Lake Rabun Hotel and Louie’s on the Lake restaurants are the favored hang outs for the community.  Fridays seem to be THE night to enjoy some incredible pizza at Louie’s while the regulars move to The Lake Rabun Hotel for the latest in farm to table cuisine on Saturdays.

Daytime activities are centered on enjoying the water.  Early morning ski clubs enjoy the glassy waters before the tubing and jet skis get going.  When the days wind down cocktail cruises begin and some very rare and classic wood boats, cruising the lake at near idle speed, begin to appear.

A favorite weekend on Lake Rabun is the weekend of July 4th where the association sponsors such activities as a BBQ with mountain dancing, fireworks, a wood boat parade following boat church, and a 5k/10k road race.

Beyond the summer, Lake Rabun is an ideal spot for enjoying all four seasons of the year.