The Most Snake Infested Lakes in Georgia
Georgia is an abode of forestland in the Southeastern United States. Nearly 40% of the state is forested, providing endless outdoor recreation and wildlife opportunities. Among the ample species of birds, mammals, and reptiles that people adore to watch, snakes are one that they may need to watch out for. The state is home to nearly 50 snake species, and while most are harmless, about seven known species are venomous. Many of these, such as the eastern copperhead, are known to live in and around lakes in Georgia. To steer clear of any slithering danger when on a waterside expedition in Georgia, here are the most snake-infested lakes in the state.
Lake Hartwell
Close-up of an Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix).
Lake Hartwell, along the border of Georgia and South Carolina, is a large 56,000-acre man-made reservoir. This body of water is one of the largest recreation lakes in the region and boasts a whopping shoreline of 962 miles (1,548 km). Along this shoreline are plenty of towns and outdoor areas, such as Tugaloo State Park and the Boyles Recreation Area. To this end, visitors from all over can enjoy activities like camping along the nine campgrounds, hiking through the various trails, or even boating from one of the five marinas. It is also a hotspot for fishing with plenty of catfish, bream, walleye, and largemouth bass.
Along with being one of the largest, Lake Hartwell is also one of the most snake-infested lakes in the country. This body of water is home to multiple non-venomous and venomous species. In terms of non-venomous species, the garter snake, rat snake, and common water snake are among the most common. These species tend to be quite shy and aren’t too much of a risk for people. However, venomous snakes are just as abundant, including well-known species such as the eastern copperhead and timber rattlesnake. The eastern copperhead is considered to be the most common and can be identified by its distinctive brown coloration and hourglass markings. If one is spotted, it is best to swim/run away, as a bite is excruciating and can cause muscle and bone damage. Thankfully, bites from eastern copperheads are rarely fatal.
Lake Lanier
Close-up of a Black Rat Snake (Elaphe obsolete).
Lake Lanier is in northern Georgia, offering a quaint reprieve from urban life. This reservoir was created in 1956 by damming the Chattahoochee River and has since become a haven for wildlife. It boasts a large surface area of 37,000 acres and has been critical in controlling floods of the Chattahoochee River. In addition to this, it is also a habitat for multiple snake species in Georgia. The most prominent species in the region is the common black rat snake. As the name suggests, the black rat snake is noted for its black-gray coloration and can reach lengths of up to 6 feet (183 cm). Although large and avid swimmers, these snakes aren’t venomous, and their bite tends to be harmless. Another species found in this lake is the DeKay’s brown snake, a small and also non-venomous reptile.
Lake Sinclair
A common water snake swimming with its head above the surface.
Lake Sinclair is another man-made lake in central Georgia. The lake is operated by Georgia Power and has a total surface area of more than 15,000 acres. It boasts a unique shape, stretching out into three large “arms,” each with smaller streams protruding from them. To this end, Lake Sinclair’s shore length is 417 miles (671 km), providing lots of land for recreational activities like boating, fishing, and more. Moreover, there is ample space for reptiles to call home. Among these reptiles, snake species, such as the common watersnake, are the most abundant. This nonvenomous snake is very agile in water and can reach lengths of up to 4ft 5in (135 cm). They have a brownish coloration with dark bands, making them quite easy to spot in and around Lake Sinclair.
Lake Allatoona
Eastern Hognose Snake with its neck flattened.
Lake Allatoona is a reservoir in northwestern Georgia. It is on the Etowah River and was formed by the Allatoona Dam in the mid-1900s. Today, it is a bustling destination near Cartersville with a total of eight privately owned marinas. Thus, boating, yachting, camping, and hunting are all popular activities here. The lake is also surrounded by plenty of outdoor parks, including the Red Top Mountain State Park, George Washington Carver Park, and Upper Stamp Creek Campground.
Ode to the endless wilderness abound; Lake Allatoona is one of the most snake-infested lakes in Georgia. Some of the most common species spotted in and around the lake are the DeKay’s brown snake, eastern hognose snake, eastern garter snake, grey rat snake, and ring-neck snake. Among these, the eastern hognose and eastern garter snakes are mildly venomous; visitors should look out for them. Thankfully, both species are quite prominent, with the hognose sporting a bright brown coloration and the garter snake boasting a prominent light-colored strip along its body. So, if you ever see these patterns, be sure to give the snake a wide berth.
Stay Safe Around Georgia’s Snake-Infested Lakes
These lakes in Georgia all share two things in common: they are popular for recreation and infested with snakes. Due to this, it is vital to identify which snake species are out there and which ones you need to avoid. For example, the brownish common watersnake is one that shouldn’t warrant much fear, while the bright brown eastern hognose snake is a species you should avoid. However, it is always best to give snakes a wide berth, as many tend to avoid humans on their own accord.
