Lake Rabun
| Company type | Public utility |
|---|---|
| Industry | Electric power generation |
| Headquarters | Atlanta , United States |
| Products | Hydroelectric power |
Lake Rabun encompasses 835 acres and features 25 miles of shoreline, situated in the northeastern part of Rabun County, Georgia. It ranks as the third reservoir in a chain of six lakes positioned along the original path of the Tallulah River. This sequence begins with Lake Burton and Lake Seed, followed by Lake Rabun, and continues downstream to Lake Tallulah Falls, Lake Tugalo, and Lake Yonah. The lake occupies a deep valley spanning approximately 10 miles along the Tallulah River.
Owned and managed by the Georgia Power Company, these reservoirs serve primarily to produce hydroelectric power for the Atlanta metropolitan area. Historically among Georgia’s largest electricity sources, their current role focuses mainly on supplying peak demand energy.
History
Completed in May 1915, Mathis Dam on Lake Rabun marked the beginning of the reservoir's formation. However, it required a decade to fill entirely, pending the construction of a tunnel connected to the Tallulah Falls power station. The dam created an 834-acre lake at an average elevation near 1,690 feet above sea level. Originally acquired by Georgia Railway and Power Company (which later became Georgia Power), Mathis Dam is an ambursen-type concrete dam, measuring 108 feet in height and extending 660 feet in length. The hydroelectric facility at Mathis Dam, known as the Terrora Plant, has a generating capacity of 16,000 kilowatts. While topographic maps indicate the reservoir’s elevation at 1,683 feet, Georgia Power defines full pool at 1,689.6 feet.
Fourth of July traditions
Each year, the Lake Rabun Association (LRA) hosts a Fourth of July celebration that includes a wooden boat parade along the shoreline. Participants compete for awards recognizing creatively decorated boats and boathouses. The festivities also feature the Rabun Ramble Road Race—a 5K and 10K event that serves as a marathon qualifier and draws over 800 runners. Proceeds benefit the Lake Rabun Foundation. The day concludes with fireworks over the lake, attracting hundreds of boats gathering in the lower basin.
Tour of homes
Biennially, the LRA organizes a public tour showcasing local residences to generate funds for scholarships within the community. This popular event sells up to 600 tickets and commences at Hall's Boathouse Marina, a site of historical significance.
Lake homes
Due to Atlanta’s expanding population, Lake Rabun has become a favored location for second homes among affluent and politically influential Georgians. Although there has been significant residential development on leased land from Georgia Power Company, most property owners primarily use their homes as seasonal weekend retreats.