
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is a reservoir located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, covering parts of Georgia and South Carolina. With a surface area of 56,000 acres and over 962 miles of shoreline, it is one of the largest and most popular recreation lakes in the southeast United States. The lake was created by the Hartwell Dam, which was built in the 1950s to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power. Lake Hartwell is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The lake has a reputation for its excellent fishing, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake's clear waters make it a great place for snorkeling, diving, and other underwater activities. In addition to water sports, Lake Hartwell offers a variety of recreational opportunities on its shores. The lake has over 45 parks and campgrounds, many of which offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The Hartwell Dam and Visitor Center provide educational exhibits on the history of the lake, the surrounding area, and the importance of water conservation. Lake Hartwell also serves as an important resource for drinking water, irrigation, and industry in the surrounding area. The lake is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who work to maintain the lake's water levels, quality, and recreational opportunities. Overall, Lake Hartwell is a treasured resource for both Georgia and South Carolina, providing a wealth of recreational opportunities, natural beauty, and economic benefits to the region.
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Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is a reservoir located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, covering parts of Georgia and South Carolina. With a surface area of 56,000 acres and over 962 miles of shoreline, it is one of the largest and most popular recreation lakes in the southeast United States. The lake was created by the Hartwell Dam, which was built in the 1950s to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power. Lake Hartwell is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The lake has a reputation for its excellent fishing, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake's clear waters make it a great place for snorkeling, diving, and other underwater activities. In addition to water sports, Lake Hartwell offers a variety of recreational opportunities on its shores. The lake has over 45 parks and campgrounds, many of which offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The Hartwell Dam and Visitor Center provide educational exhibits on the history of the lake, the surrounding area, and the importance of water conservation. Lake Hartwell also serves as an important resource for drinking water, irrigation, and industry in the surrounding area. The lake is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who work to maintain the lake's water levels, quality, and recreational opportunities. Overall, Lake Hartwell is a treasured resource for both Georgia and South Carolina, providing a wealth of recreational opportunities, natural beauty, and economic benefits to the region.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Lake Hartwell is 71°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Sunday, May 4
Thunderstorms
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
11:42 PM - 2:12 AM
12:17 PM - 2:47 PM
4:34 PM - 6:04 PM
6:09 AM - 7:39 AM
Outlook for Sunday at Lake Hartwell
Expect temperatures ranging from 54°F to 70°F. There's a 77% chance of rain, potentially bringing around 0.29" rain. Winds will be averaging 7 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 19 mph. The maximum UV index will be 8 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 11:42 PM and 12:17 PM, or try the minor windows near 4:34 PM and 6:09 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake Hartwell.
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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Lake Hartwell
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
44°F
On Jan 19
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
66°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (85°F).
- Coolest avg: December (51°F).
- Avg temps often suitable for swimming during July.
- Rapid warming often occurs: January → February (+13°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: October → November (-10°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
281°
Pressure
1010 mb
Cloud Cover
98%
Visibility
4 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Hartwell
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