Goat Rock Lake, reservoir on the Chattahoochee River
Goat Rock Lake is a reservoir on the Chattahoochee River straddling the Alabama and Georgia border, about 10 miles upstream from Columbus. The lake spans roughly 940 acres with a winding shoreline of over 125 miles, featuring mostly wooded banks with minimal development and a single public boat ramp managed by Georgia Power.
The lake was created in the early 1900s when the Goat Rock Dam was constructed and completed in 1912. The name came from workers who observed goats jumping on rocks in the river, and Georgia Power built the facility primarily for generating electricity for nearby communities.
The shoreline is mostly wooded and natural with limited access, making it best suited for anglers who should bring their own gear and bait. There are no large parks, restaurants, or shops nearby, so it is wise to bring supplies and water, and check boat ramp conditions with Georgia Power before visiting.
Visitors sometimes report finding mysterious objects and old equipment while fishing or exploring, remnants from when the reservoir was first built. These hidden stories add a sense of mystery and adventure to the location for those curious enough to seek them out.
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