Just 45 minutes up Interstate 85 from Atlanta, Lake Lanier is one of the closest lakes to most people’s front doors. If you don’t mind crowds, head to Lake Lanier Islands Resorts, where you can check out the water park, amusement park and restaurants, or skip the party and find a cove to claim as your own for the day. Boats are available to rent, or you could visit the brand new Don Carter State Park, which has hiking trails, a swimming beach and playgrounds.

If you’re looking for a little lake getaway with some panache, Lake Oconee is your best bet. The Ritz-Carlton at Lake Oconee delivers the dream of an American lake vacation with precision. All you have to do is have your car valet parked, check in, then check out in one of the lakeside hammocks, swings, infinity pool or spa. Don’t miss the nightly s’mores, curated by a s’more-fessional. Not ready to foot the bill of the Ritz? Lake Oconee is also accessible through a number of parks and marinas.

Downstream from Oconee is the laid back Lake Sinclair. Perfect for a big-city jailbreak, this low-key lake is known for Dukes Lounge, offering curbside and lakeside service. Rent a boat at one of the local marinas and head to Dukes for waterside service. Move over, Chick-fil-A. There’s a new king in town.

Thirty minutes north on Interstate 75 lies Lake Allatoona, which serves as one of Atlanta’s main water reservoirs and recreational lakes. With much of its shoreline managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, Allatoona is a popular lake that still retains much of its natural beauty. Close to Atlanta and with multiple marinas, campsites, and recreational areas, you can easily make a day trip or turn it into a full weekend of freshwater fun.

With its shoreline part of the Nantahala National Forest, Lake Chatuge is a far cry from busy Lake Lanier. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you won’t find any water parks or laser shows, but you will find quiet coves and uninhabited islands to explore. While it’s a doable drive from Atlanta (right at 2 hours), you may want to pack a bag and stay at the Ridges Resort and Marina, which has a saltwater pool, fire pits and a marina where you can rent a boat for the duration of your stay.