Lake Rabun facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Rabun |
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 Lake Rabun
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Lake Rabun
Location in the United States
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| Location | Rabun County, Georgia |
| Coordinates | 34°45′55″N 083°24′57″W / 34.76528°N 83.41583°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 835 acres (3 km2) |
Lake Rabun is a beautiful, winding lake in the northeastern part of Georgia, USA. It covers about 835-acre (3.4 km2) and has 25 miles (40 km) of shoreline. Lake Rabun is not a natural lake. It is a special type of lake called a reservoir, which means it was created by building a dam across a river.
This lake is the third in a series of six lakes. These lakes follow the path of the Tallulah River in Rabun County, Georgia. The series starts with Lake Burton, then Lake Seed, Lake Rabun, Lake Tallulah Falls, Lake Tugalo, and Lake Yonah.
The Georgia Power Company owns and manages these lakes. They use the lakes to create hydroelectric energy. This energy helps power homes and businesses, especially in Georgia's largest city, Atlanta. These lakes were once the biggest producers of electricity in Georgia. Today, they still provide important power during busy times.
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How Lake Rabun Was Made
Lake Rabun was created by building a large dam. This dam is called the Mathis Dam. The lake started filling up with water in May 1915. It became a huge reservoir holding over ten million gallons of water. The lake covers about 834 acres (3.4 km2) of land.
The Georgia Railway and Power Company bought the land for the lake. This company later became the Georgia Power Company. The Mathis Dam is made of concrete and is 108 feet (33 m) tall. It stretches 660 feet (201 m) across the valley. The Terrora Hydroelectric Plant is located at the dam. It can produce 16,000 kilowatts of electricity. When the lake is full, its water level is about 1,689.6 feet (515.0 m) above sea level.
Fun Fourth of July Traditions
Lake Rabun has exciting and special traditions for the Fourth of July. The Lake Rabun Association (LRA) organizes these events.
Wooden Boat Parade
Every year, there is a fun wooden boat parade. Boats decorated in all sorts of ways cruise along the lake's shoreline. Prizes are given for the most decorated boat and even the most decorated boat house!
Rabun Ramble Road Race
Another tradition is the Rabun Ramble Road Race. This race includes a 5K (about 3.1 miles) and a 10K (about 6.2 miles). The race route winds along the northern side of the lake. It's a popular event for serious runners and families, with over 800 people joining each year. The race also helps raise money for the Lake Rabun Foundation. This foundation uses the money to support the local community.
Fireworks Display
In the evening, a spectacular fireworks show lights up the sky over the lake. Hundreds of boats gather in the lower part of the lake to watch the amazing display.
Tour of Homes
Every two years, the Lake Rabun Association hosts a "Tour of Homes." This event allows the public to visit some of the beautiful houses around the lake. The tour starts at the historic Hall's Boathouse Marina. The money raised from ticket sales helps fund local scholarships. It also supports other good causes in the area. Up to 600 tickets are sold for this popular event.
Lake Homes and Community
Lake Rabun has become a popular place for people to have a second home. Many people who work in important jobs in Georgia own homes here. Most homeowners are summer residents who visit on weekends.
Even though many new homes have been built, the community works hard to keep the lake special. The Lake Rabun Association and its members help protect the lake's quiet and charming feel. They have successfully prevented too much commercial development that could change the lake's unique appeal.
