(GA) Carters Sunshirt

Carters Lake carries a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history that sets it apart from other Georgia lakes. Created in the early 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the lake was formed when the Carters Dam—now the tallest earthen dam east of the Mississippi River—was built on the Coosawattee River. The project was designed for flood control, hydroelectric power, and water supply, transforming the rugged mountain valley into one of Georgia’s most dramatic reservoirs.

What makes Carters Lake especially distinctive is its untouched shoreline. Unlike many lakes in the region, no private docks or homes are allowed along the water, preserving its wild, natural character. Its extreme depth—reaching more than 450 feet—gives it an almost fjord-like appearance, with steep wooded hills dropping sharply into deep, clear water.

The area also holds cultural significance. Long before the dam, the land surrounding Carters Lake was home to Cherokee communities and later became part of the early frontier settlements of North Georgia. The spirit of that history is still felt in the quiet coves, old river valleys beneath the surface, and the natural landscape that remains largely undeveloped.

Today, people love Carters Lake for its serenity, incredible views, and fantastic outdoor recreation. It’s known for excellent spotted bass fishing, peaceful campgrounds, scenic overlooks, and the sense of calm that comes from being on a lake that feels truly wild. Its combination of engineering achievement, preserved natural beauty, and deep-rooted history makes Carters Lake one of Georgia’s most special and unforgettable mountain lakes.