Chatuge Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Chatuge |
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Fishermen on Lake Chatuge with Appalachian Mountains in background.
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 Lake Chatuge
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Lake Chatuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | United States |
| Coordinates | 34°59′28″N 83°47′06″W / 34.991°N 83.785°W |
| Surface area | 10.9 sq mi (28 km2) |
| Average depth | 9.1 m (30 ft) |
| Max. depth | 44 m (144 ft) at dam |
| Water volume | 62,619 m3 (2,211,400 cu ft) maximum |
| Shore length1 | 132 mi (212 km) |
| Surface elevation | 1,926 ft (587 m) |
| Settlements | Hayesville, Hiawassee, |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
Lake Chatuge is a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains of North Carolina and Georgia. It's not a natural lake, but a "man-made" one. This means it was created by building a large dam across a river. Lake Chatuge is a popular spot for outdoor fun and is known for its clear waters. It's also special because it's one of the highest major lakes in the state of Georgia!
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About Lake Chatuge
Lake Chatuge was formed when the Chatuge Dam was finished in 1942. It's a "reservoir," which is like a giant storage tank for water. The lake is relatively shallow in most places, about 30 feet (9.1 m) deep. However, near the dam, it gets much deeper, reaching about 144 feet (44 m).
Where is Lake Chatuge?
This lovely lake sits right on the border between North Carolina and Georgia. It's surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. The towns of Hayesville, North Carolina, and Hiawassee, Georgia, are located right on its shores. This makes it easy for visitors to find places to stay and things to do.
Why Was the Lake Built?
The Chatuge Dam was built for several important reasons. One main purpose was to control floods. Dams help prevent rivers from overflowing their banks during heavy rains. Another important job of the dam is to generate hydroelectric power. This means using the force of moving water to create electricity for homes and businesses. The lake also provides a steady supply of water for the area.
Fun Things to Do at Lake Chatuge
Lake Chatuge is a fantastic place for many outdoor activities. People come from all over to enjoy its calm waters and scenic views.
Boating and Water Sports
The lake is perfect for all kinds of boating. You can enjoy:
- Motorboating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Paddleboarding
- Jet skiing
There are several marinas around the lake where you can rent boats or launch your own.
Fishing Adventures
Lake Chatuge is a favorite spot for fishing. Anglers can catch many different types of fish, including:
- Bass (largemouth, smallmouth, spotted)
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Sunfish
The lake's clear waters and healthy fish population make it a great place for both experienced and new fishermen.
Swimming and Picnics
On warm days, many people enjoy swimming in the lake's refreshing waters. There are also several parks and picnic areas along the shore. These spots are perfect for families to relax, have a meal, and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
Camping and Hiking
Around Lake Chatuge, you can find places to camp, from simple tent sites to RV parks. Many visitors love to spend a night or two under the stars. There are also hiking trails nearby that offer amazing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Wildlife and Nature
Lake Chatuge is home to a variety of wildlife. You might spot different kinds of birds, including ospreys and eagles, flying over the water. Deer and other animals can sometimes be seen along the shoreline. The lake's ecosystem supports many plants and animals, making it a rich natural area.
