Lake Hartwell, Reservoir at Georgia-South Carolina border, United States.

Lake Hartwell is a reservoir at the border between South Carolina and Georgia, where three rivers meet. The water body spreads over a large area with branching coves and wooded shores that offer recreation opportunities.

The dam was built between 1955 and 1959 to provide flood control and power generation. Before flooding, archaeologists conducted excavations to preserve traces of earlier settlements.

Lake Hartwell takes its name from Nancy Hart, a Revolutionary War figure who lived on the Georgia frontier and was known for her devotion to freedom. A county, a city, a state park and a highway also carry her name. The reservoir was authorized by the Flood Control Act of May 17, 1950.

Access from Interstate 85 leads to several entry points with boat ramps and campgrounds along the shores. The best time to visit is between spring and fall, when the weather favors outdoor activities.

During the 2008 drought the lake fell to 637.49 feet, more than 22 feet below normal, exposing old highways and islands usually marked with buoys for boaters. The reservoir is named for Nancy Hart, a Revolutionary War figure who lived on the Georgia frontier.