A Pristine Lake on the South Carolina-Georgia Border
Why Rent On Richard B. Russell Lake
Richard B. Russell Lake spans 26,650 acres along the border of South Carolina and Georgia, with 540 miles of shoreline that remains almost entirely undeveloped thanks to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ long-standing policy against private shoreline construction. That means your view from the water is not houses and docks, it is forest, rock, and the Blue Ridge foothills meeting still water at the edge of things.
Why a Rental Is the Right Way to Stay Here
The surrounding towns of Calhoun Falls, South Carolina, and Elberton, Georgia, have vacation rentals and cabins that give families a comfortable base near one of the most visually striking lakes in the Southeast. A rental with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor space is the sensible choice for any group planning more than a single day on the water. Pet-friendly options are available, and the rural character of the surrounding landscape makes this a genuinely peaceful place to settle in for a week.
Kayaking, Boating, and Untouched Shoreline
Because Russell Lake’s shoreline is largely undeveloped, time on the water here feels different from other reservoirs its size. Kayaking along the coves reveals a wilderness character that is rare for a lake created in 1984. Boating across the main body of the lake gives you the sensation of open space and mountain sky that the lake’s position in the foothills provides. Fishing for largemouth bass, striped bass, and bream is popular throughout the season.
Calhoun Falls and Richard B. Russell State Parks
Calhoun Falls State Park in South Carolina sits on a peninsula that extends into the lake and offers camping, boat ramps, and a beach area with exceptional water views. Richard B. Russell State Park in Georgia provides additional amenities on the opposite shore, including a golf course, campground, and organized beach area. Together, the two parks give families structured access points that complement time spent at a private rental.
A Lake That Rewards the Drive
Russell Lake is not the easiest lake to get to, but that is largely why it still looks the way it does. The families who make the trip consistently say the undeveloped shoreline and the quality of the water are unlike anything they find closer to home. We think it is one of the Southeast’s best-kept lakeside secrets, and the vacation rentals nearby make a multi-day stay entirely achievable.
- Surface area (mi)
- 67.11
- Max depth (ft)
- 167.32
- Elevation (ft)
- 475.72
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 540
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Jet Skiing
- Hiking
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Marinas on Richard B. Russell Lake
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Richard B. Russell Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Richard B. Russell Lake. These areas are located at Georgia’s Richard B. Russell State Park and other specific recreation areas around the lake.
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Richard B. Russell Lake is a popular destination because it covers over 26,000 surface acres with 540 miles of shoreline, offering extensive fishing and boating opportunities. The lake also features a variety of recreational activities, including waterskiing, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as a nearby state park with a golf course, beach area, and trails.
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The daily possession limit for striped and hybrid bass in Richard B. Russell Lake is two fish, with only one allowed to be over 34 inches in total length. This regulation applies to both the lake and the Lake Hartwell tailwater. This limit is in place to help maintain a healthy and large striper population.
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There are dog-friendly areas at Richard B. Russell State Park, but dogs are not specified to be allowed on the beach itself. Leashed dogs are welcome on trails and in certain parts of the park, including some cottages and trails connecting to the beach area.
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Richard B. Russell Lake is near the towns of Elberton, Georgia, and Abbeville and Anderson in South Carolina. The lake is situated on the Savannah River bordering these counties. It is also close to other local areas such as Bobby Brown State Park in Georgia.
