Lake Martin

Lake Martin is a reservoir in Tallapoosa, Elmore and Coosa counties in Alabama that spreads across wooded hills and winding coves. The water floods parts of the old Tallapoosa gorge and forms a jagged shoreline with narrow inlets and rocky promontories.

Construction of Martin Dam began in 1923 and lasted until 1926, creating an artificial body of water that was then the largest of its kind worldwide. The dam has provided power to surrounding communities ever since and permanently changed the landscape of the Tallapoosa valley.

The shoreline draws families from surrounding counties who grill and spend time on the water during weekends. Boat houses line the wooded coves, and many residents use the reservoir as a starting point for summer gatherings and outdoor relaxation.

Several access roads lead to swimming spots, boat launches and camping areas along the waterline, often busy during summer weekends. Boaters should be aware of underwater rocks in the shallower sections, and anglers find deeper waters in the former river channels.

Chimney Rock formation rises roughly 60 feet (18 meters) above the water surface and serves as a popular meeting point for boaters. On weekends, dozens of boats gather around this landmark, which has become a social tradition on the reservoir.