Frequently Asked Questions

Why do lake levels vary so much and so unpredictably?
If I wish to build any structure on Georgia Power property or on either lake, how should I proceed?
When are the parks, public boat ramps and public fishing piers open on Lakes Oconee and Sinclair?
What fees are charged at these facilities?
Can I make a reservation?
General FAQs

Lakes Oconee and Sinclair exist for the production of hydroelectric power. Operated as "pumped storage" facilities, lake levels can vary up to 2 feet or more within a few hours. Although this fluctuation can be predictable at times, overall electrical system conditions - demands, availability of other generating units - can change this on very short notice. Although an extreme condition, the recent Northeastern blackouts is one example. This makes predictions and any kind of published schedule nearly impossible. Counting on such a prediction would also be very risky. Beyond these issues, naturally occurring conditions such as droughts, heavy rainfall/inflows and downstream requirements obviously have an effect. Georgia Power must balance a number of factors - regulatory concerns, generation requirements, generating until design/engineering considerations, environmental concerns - in operating our facilities on these projects. The best news that we can offer is that these are issues on almost all hydroelectric projects and, historically, have been dealt with more successfully on these lakes than on many others in this region and nationally.

First of all, you must be signed to a lease or license agreement in order to have a permit approved. If you are not signed up, please call our office at 706.485.8704 for assistance through this process. After signing, check our Shoreline Management Brochure online at (link) or come to our office at 125 Wallace Dam Road for a copy. This will guide you as to the types of activities which are allowed and encouraged. Then, forward your request and any required plans for your project to our office. Permits are issued at no cost.

Public boat ramps and fishing piers are open year round. Rocky Creek Park (pavilion, boat ramp, beach area) on Sinclair is open from 10:00 am until 7:00 pm on weekends beginning in May and from Wednesday through Sunday for Memorial Day through Labor Day. Lake Oconee has three full service parks (pavilion, boat ramp, beach, tent camping, RV sites) open as follows: Lawrence Shoals - year round; Old Salem - February 16, 2004 thru November 14, 2004; Parks Ferry - March 1, 2004 thru October 3, 2004.

Rocky Creek and all facilities on Oconee have a $3 day use fee. Season passes can be purchased at the parks for $35. Camping at the three Oconee parks costs $14 per night for tents and $16 per night for RV's. Weekly camping fees are $80. Pavilions are available for $60.

Camping sites and all pavilions can be reserved. Either call 1-888-GPCLake (1-888-472-4253) or call each park directly as follows: Lawrence Shoals - 706-485-5494; Old Salem - 706-467-2850; Parks Ferry - 706-453-4308; Rocky Creek - 478-453-0022.