10 Things To Do At Clarks Hill Lake
One of Thomson, Georgia's biggest attractions is the beautiful Clarks Hill Lake. This 400-miles of shoreline between Georgia and South Carolina is often referred to as Georgia's Freshwater Coast. Due to the plethora of outdoor opportunities, including some of the best fishing in the country, Thomson's Clarks Hill Lake is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway by yourself, with family, or with friends. Here are 10 things to do at Clarks Hill Lake.
Sunset on Clarks Hill Lake
1. Fish
Thomson is one of the best bass fishing spots in the United States. Largemouth, white, striped, hybrid--Clarks Hill Lake has bass of all kinds! You can find lots of crappie, bluegill, and catfish here, too.
Don't let that intimidate you--Clarks Hill Lake welcomes fishermen of all experience levels.
Note: You must have a fishing license. More info.
Clarks Hill Lake Fishing
2. Kayak
Georgia's Little River Water Trail is the best place to kayak on Clarks Hill Lake. The trail is 20-miles long and takes you from the Woodruff Bridge to Raysville Campground. You might encounter Bald Eagles, White Tail Deer, Eastern Wild Turkeys, Gray Squirrels, Beavers, and River Otters plus see White Oak, River Birch, Yellow Pine, Red Cedar, and Long Leaf Pine Trees on your journey.
Kayak on Clarks Hill Lake
3. Camp
Thomson, Georgia is a wonderful place to camp. Whether you prefer to stay in an RV, camper, or tent, need electric, or want to use a bathhouse, there is a spot for you here.
Learn about the Big Hart Campground, Raysville Campground, and McDuffie Public Fishing Area Campground here.
Lakeside camping available.
4. Have A Picnic
Make the most of your time outdoors by enjoying a picnic style meal. Clarks Hill has several picnic shelters, some with electrical hookups.
5. Birding
The varieties of habitats at Clarks Hill Lake make for superb bird watching opportunities. The best place in Thomson to look for birds is on Georgia's Little River Water Trail.
Birdwatching on Clarks Hill Lake
6. Hunt
While Clarks Hill Lake is most known for fishing, it has some great hunting, too! The 12,700-acre Clarks Hill Wildlife Management Area and 1200-acre Germany Creek Wildlife Management Area are both fantastic hunting spots. Be on the look out for deer, squirrels, turkey, raccoons, and waterfowl.
Note: You must have a hunting license. More info
Hunting on Clarks Hill Lake
7. Swim
A day at Clarks Hill Lake isn't complete without swimming. If you aren't out on a boat, access the lake from the Raysville Marina or your campsite. The water is sure to cool you off from the hot Georgia sun--just be sure to wear your life jacket!
8. Relax
Clarks Hill Lake is an ideal place to relax. Sit back and take in all of the natural beauty that this part of Georgia has to offer. Whether you choose to sit on the banks of Clarks Hill Lake or in a hammock at your campsite, this is a great location to get off the grid and clear your mind.
Relax by the lake
9. Boat
Spend time on the water via boat and see all that the lake has to offer. It doesn't matter if your boat is big or small--Clarks Hill Lake has room for them all! Launch your boat at one of the campgrounds, marinas, or various docks throughout Thomson.
Boating on Clarks Hill Lake
10. Waterski
Do you waterski? If so, Clarks Hill Lake is a great place to do it. Bring your equipment and have some fun out on the water.
Clarks Hill Lake
Since there are so many fun things to do at Clarks Hill Lake, you should consider staying in Thomson for the weekend and making the most of your time here. Check out the Thomson Weekend Guide to see what else this quintessential Southern town has to offer!
Need more help planning your Thomson vacation? Stop by Thomson-McDuffie County Convention & Visitors Bureau in the heart of downtown Thomson (149 Main Street).
Taylor Pittman Hardy of Wherever I May Roam Blog wrote this article.