Public Access Boat Ramps

If you have your own boat or just want to explore the lake from the shore, there are several public access points on both lakes.

Near Lake Oconee

On the Northwest side of Lake Oconee, Blue Springs Marina in Buckhead provides boat and RV storage, full hook-up campsites, snacks, and a boat ramp for easy lake entry. Swords Recreation Area features lakeside picnic spots and a newly renovated boat ramp, open from sunrise to sunset with a $5 daily parking fee per vehicle. On the Northeast side of the lake, in Greensboro, The Boathouse at Harbor Club offers a resort-style experience with boat fueling, a community dock, a convenience store, and boat ramps that are open year-round from 9 AM – 6 PM on weekends and 9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays. Long Shoals Boat Ramp, located in Eatonton and on the south end of Lake Oconee, provides easy access to the lake along with parking and restrooms for a small fee.

Near Lake Sinclair

For those heading to Lake Sinclair, several public access points and marinas provide easy entry to the water. Twin Bridges Landing in Milledgeville is a full-service marina where you can launch your boat for just a $5 fee and leave your vehicle while you enjoy the lake. In Eatonton, the Dennis Station Ramp, managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, offers two boat ramps with docks equipped with fish attractor lights, making it a great spot for both launching and fishing. Haslam’s Marina in Milledgeville provides gas docks with regular and pre-mix fuel, two deep self-serve boat ramps, and boat storage, repairs, and maintenance services. For a simple $5 launch fee, you can hit the water, but be sure to plan ahead as they are closed on Mondays.

For even more public access boat ramps, check out our full list.

Rentals

No boat? No problem! Both Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair offer rentals for pontoons, fishing boats, jet skis, kayaks, and more, so you can get on the water with ease. 

Near Lake Oconee

For the ultimate day on the water, Young Harris Watersports at 44 Bridge offers the largest selection of boat and jet ski rentals on Lake Oconee. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise or an adrenaline-filled adventure, they have everything you need to make the most of your lake day. Anchors Marina is open seven days a week and provides a variety of boats for rent, making it easy to plan your perfect lake getaway. For high-speed thrills, Oconee Wild Watersports offers jet ski and pontoon rentals, along with ski boats for wakeboarding and water skiing.

Near Lake Sinclair

For an exciting adventure on the water, Twin Lakes Jet Ski offers Yamaha waverunners and a variety of boat rentals, including ski and pontoon boats. Pontoon rentals are available year-round, while jet ski rentals run from April through October. Sinclair Marina provides everything you need for a day on the lake, from boat rentals and sales to storage and service. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise or an action-packed outing, they have the perfect boat for you. Sunset Marina & Inn brings back boat rentals with two 24-foot Bentley Pontoon Boats that can accommodate up to 14 people, available during the spring and summer months.

There are even more rental options available to help you make the most of your time on the water. Explore our full list of boat rentals to find the perfect fit for your adventure.

Beaches

If you’re looking to cool off without a boat, there are plenty of spots where you can wade right in and enjoy the lake. Whether you want to swim, float, or just relax on the shore, these locations offer easy access to the water for a perfect lakeside day.

On Lake Oconee

Lawrence Shoals features a maintained white sand beach with marked swimming areas, while Old Salem Campground offers a beach, picnic areas, and a playground for a full day of family fun.

On Lake Sinclair

Jere-Shai Lakeside provides a peaceful cove for swimming and relaxing by the water. Lake Sinclair Recreation Area offers a public beach, open year-round, along with a playground for kids. Oconee Springs Park takes lake fun to the next level with a maintained beach area and an on-lake waterpark.

Whether you’re launching your own boat, renting one for the day, or simply soaking up the sun on the shore, Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair offer endless ways to enjoy the water.