Nestled in the mountains of Georgia’s Oconee County, Lake Tugaloo is an undiscovered gem. This beautiful 575-acre lake is the product of the confluence of the Chattooga and Tallahas rivers, and its tranquility is further preserved by the Tougaloo Dam. Surrounded by the lush forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the crystal clear waters of the lake make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peace and relaxation.
Geological and Hydroelectric Importance:
With a 597-acre reservoir and 28 miles of shoreline, Lake Tugaloo is located in northeast Georgia and includes Habersham and Rabun counties as part of the region. Additionally, part of the lake extends into Oconee County, South Carolina. It is the fifth of six dams built by canals operated by Georgia Power along the primary bed of the Tallahas River. The video starts at Burton Lake and passes through Seed Lake, Rabun Lake, Tallulah Falls Lake, Tugaloo Lake and ends at Una Lake.
The west branch of the lake receives water from the Tallahas River, while the east branch receives water from the Chattooga River. Lake Tougaloo is an extraordinary industrial project that was completed in 1923 and is a testament to human ingenuity. The gravity-fed rock-and-masonry dam is 155 feet high with a span of 740 feet and supports 45 MW of water generation capacity from the reservoirs of the Tougaloo Hydroelectric Station.
Activities:
Tugallo Lake attracts people who love fun and adventure. Access to larger boats is limited to engines under 20 horsepower, providing peace of mind for paddlers and fishermen. The large lake is an angler’s paradise, offering opportunities to catch largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, catfish and salmon.
For those who prefer to camp, there are tent options at the lake, including camping areas and primitive areas, just below the parking lot. During the summer months, the lake hosts many activities such as swimming, water skiing, sailing and rowing. Two trails, Sassafras and Muscatine, wind through the surrounding landscape, showcasing oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry trees.
Environmental Compatibility and Visitor Notes:
Lake Tugallo symbolizes a delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental protection. The dam’s role in energy use shows commitment to sustainable energy use. As visitors observe the beauty of the lake, they are instructed to help maintain the integrity of this natural ocean.
In short, Lake Togalu is a testament to the synergy of beauty and human innovation. Whether you’re looking for safety, paradise or outdoor recreation, Oconee County’s small lakes welcome anyone who appreciates the beauty of water in the lap of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
