Lake Hartwell Boating

Few things compare to the thrill of Lake Hartwell Boating. Before deciding to operate a boat on Lake Hartwell, it is imperative that you learn the nautical rules. Safe boating courses are available for this purpose. Taking such a course, as with automobile insurance, can even get you a discount on your boat insurance.

Information on boating courses can be obtained by contacting the Georgia Department of Natural Resources at 770-535-5499. Boating courses can also be found elsewhere.

It is very important that you familiarize yourself with the different types of buoys found on Lake Hartwell. The list below names each of the four buoys found on Lake Hartwell, along with a description of what each means:

Buoy with square - an information buoy. This buoy contains non-regulatory information such as directions, distance, food, etc.

Buoy with circle - a caution buoy. This buoy is found in controlled areas, as indicated in the circle. Possible caution messages can include no fishing, speed limit, no wake zone such as that found around bridges or boat ramps, no skiing, etc.

Buoy with diamond - danger! The type of danger will be indicated within the diamond. Possible danger messages include rocks, shallow water, etc.

Buoy with crossed diamond - boats keep out. With this buoy, the message can be found outside the crossed diamond. These buoys can be found around swim areas, waterfalls, etc.