Lake Rutledge at Hard Labor Creek State Park
A calm 275-acre state park lake with a 10-horsepower motor limit, so there are no big boat wakes. One of the best places around to learn to paddleboard.
| Address | 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663 |
| Drive from our store | About 45 minutes |
| Launch | Boat ramp, dock, and an accessible kayak launch |
| Water | Lake Rutledge (275 acres) |
| Best for | Beginners, kids, calm-water paddleboarding |
| Motors | 10 HP limit on Lake Rutledge |
| Cost | Georgia State Parks ParkPass per vehicle |
Georgia State Parks paddling page for current hours, fees, and conditions.
About the paddle
Lake Rutledge is the bigger of the two lakes at Hard Labor Creek State Park. Motors are limited to 10 horsepower, so the water stays calm and quiet. That makes it a great place to learn, paddle with kids, or practice standing up on a board.
The launch has a boat ramp, a wooden dock, and an accessible kayak launch that makes getting in and out easy for everyone. The park also rents kayaks seasonally if someone in your group doesn't have a boat.
Hard Labor Creek also has some of the best mountain biking near Lake Oconee, so it's easy to make it a ride-and-paddle day.
Where to park and launch
| Launch | Address | Links |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Rutledge boat ramp | Lake Rutledge Rd, inside Hard Labor Creek State Park |
Map Directions |
Park address for GPS: 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663. The Lake Rutledge ramp is at the end of Lake Rutledge Rd.
Good to know
- A Georgia State Parks ParkPass is required for each vehicle.
- Lake Brantley, the smaller lake, allows electric motors only but has no boat ramp.
- Kayak rentals are seasonal. Call the park to check.
- Pair it with the mountain bike trails in the same park.
Stop by Okana Outdoors before you paddle
We are at 1101 Parkside Main, Greensboro, GA 30642, in the Publix shopping center next to Amici. We sell paddleboards and kayaks, so stop in to see what's in stock and get set up before your first paddle.
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, closed Sunday.
Questions about where to paddle? Call us at (706) 405-3393.
See all places to paddleboard and kayak near Lake Oconee
Launch information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Hours, fees, seasons, and access can change without notice. Please check with the park or site manager before heading out, wear a life jacket, and paddle within your ability.