Lake Oconee

General Information

Most Atlantans are familiar with Lake Oconee because of driving over it on I-20. Invariably, windsurfers wonder if there are any good spots on the lake. From the best we can gather, not really. The lake is quite narrow for its size and runs north-south which is perpendicular to the more common wind directions here. Also, much of the shoreline is privately owned so places that might be feasible are inaccessible, unless that happens to be your home.

David Wade has made some enquiries as to possible launches, Parks Ferry Recreation Area and Old Salem Campground, on the south end of the lake. See notes below in legacy directions. It appears that the east end of the Madison Hwy Causeway (US 278), on the northern end of the lake, may have a launch for NW, N and NE winds but we don't have any confirmation that this spot is actually accessible.

We, however, are open-minded and always on the search for new water. If you find a good spot on Oconee, let us know.

Recommended Wind Directions

NW: yes | N: yes | NE: yes

W: yes | | E: no

SW: yes | S: yes | SE: no

Legacy Directions

1-1.5 hr. From the abc windforums:

I-20 east exit on exit 130 Greensboro, turn right on Hwy 44 go to Parks Ferry Campground off of Corey Station Rd .Or from I-20 go right on Hwy 44 to Old Salem Park off of Linger-Longer Rd. I was told they would be best on an east west wind. But we need to go and see for ourselves.

I stopped in at Green County Regional Airport and they told me that I could call 706-453-7008 or (mobile phone 706-474-0060 ) and get the wind speed and direction. This airport is located about 5 miles from Lake Oconee.

Anyone interested in a new adventure??

-David Wade

Local Tips

Ability

Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Map

<googlemap version="0.9" lat="33.505618" lon="-83.259544" zoom="12" width="500" height="750" scale="yes"> 33.523888, -83.273605, Parks Ferry 33.429522, -83.246065, Old Salem Park 33.581046, -83.271771, Madison Hwy Causeway Possible launch spot </googlemap>