A World Treasure In the Heart of Alabama

Cherokee Bluffs, better known as Lake Martin, invites exploration with its 700+ miles of captivating shoreline. Locate Cherokee Bluffs between Birmingham, Montgomery, Columbus, and Atlanta. Given its prime location between bustling cities and beautiful woodlands, this reservoir is the perfect escape destination.The Alabama Electricity Company obtains hydroelectric power from the Martin Dam powerhouse. In 1926, they created the world’s largest artificial body of water. Let’s take a closer look at the dam, originally called Cherokee Bluffs, renamed in 1936 after Thomas Martin, the president of Alabama Power Company. Alabama Power and Russell Lands partially own the beachfront.

Essentials

With its peaceful, rural setting, Lake Martin offers a serene escape while still providing easy access to essential amenities. If ever needing medical attention, residents can access Russell Medical is located 20 miles for 24/7 medical assistance. For travel accommodations, you can locate the Montgomery Airport just 60 miles away.

Teaming with Life On & In the Water

Lake Martin, one of the biggest artificial reservoirs in the country, you can count on it to offer year-round fun. The fishing competitions held at this sizable reservoir have gained popularity recently. Anglers can discover a variety of species swimming beneath the surface with lots of areas to explore.

However, you’ll most frequently catch largemouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, blue catfish, channel catfish, and black crappie! Sand beaches, campgrounds, and marinas may be found scattered throughout Lake Martin’s shores. The most well-known rock, however, is Chimney Rock, a landmark with a chimney-like form! Residents can anticipate a summer of swimming, water skiing, and golf at the Dixie Sailing Club.

In & Around Lake MartinĀ 

Lake Martin offers diverse shoreline dining options across its 44,000 acres, providing plenty of space to stretch out and explore. The Kowaliga Restaurant, Peanut Point, and Chuckwalla’s Pizza at Chuck’s Marina are a few of the ten costal eateries. Additionally, savor the local fish flavors anywhere you dine due to the lake’s proximity.

The ideal starting point for any excursion is Lake Martin, which is positioned between some of the biggest cities Georgia and Alabama have to offer.

Residents in Lake Martin can get to Montgomery in less than an hour. Visitors will never run out of things to do in this community! There are over 20 local eateries, a picturesque Court Square, and a planetarium. Enjoy the vistas of Alabama’s capitol or immerse yourself in the fascinating history!

Birmingham, 90 miles away, has a wide range of stores, restaurants, and activities engage in all year long! You can spend the day at the zoo, McWane Science Center, or have a night out in the heart of this remarkable city. It’s ideal for groups of all ages.

Experience Lake Martin

Lake Martin, which has a sizable surface area, offers excitement around every bend in its crystal-clear waters. You’re bound to fall in love with the Southern charm of lakeside life!

Lake Information

  • Shoreline: 750 miles
  • Average Depth: 41 feet
  • Deepest Depth: 150 feet
  • Acreage: 44,000 acres
  • Water Level: Seasonal Full Pool
  • Schedule: April-September
  • Water Drops: 7 feet
  • Dam: Martin Dam
  • Ownership: Public
  • Dam Managed By: Alabama Power Company
  • Dam Year Built: 1926
  • Public Boat Ramps: 19
  • Counties: Tallapoosa | Elmore | Coosa
  • Fish: Black Crappie, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Striped Bass Hybrid, White Bass
  • Sailing Clubs: Dixie Sailing Club, StillWaters Yacht Club
  • Condos Available: Yes
  • Notable Events: Alexander City Jazz Festival | Fourth of July Celebration | constant fishing competitions | AquaPalooza
  • Landmarks: Kowaliga Bridge, Chimney Rock
  • Permit is not required to use the lake

  • Jet skis are allowed

  • Motorized boats are allowed

  • Houseboats are not allowed

  • Boating restrictions (Yes). (See https://www.alea.gov/dps/marine-patrol/boating-rules-and-regulations)

  • Dock restrictions (Yes). (See https://apcshorelines.com/pdfs/martin_yates_thurlow_guidelines.pdf)

  • Resources Nearby

    Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport

    Phone: (205) 595-0533
    Address: 5900 Messer Airport Highway Birmingham, AL 35212

    Thomas C Russell Field

    Phone: (256) 329-9057
    Address: 997 TC Russell Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010

    Wind Creek State Park

    Phone: (256) 329-0845
    Address: 4325 AL-128Alexander City, AL 35010

    Lake Winds Golf Course

    Phone: (256) 825-9860
    Address: 95 Co Rd 40Jacksons Gap, AL 36861

    Stillwater Golf and Country Club

    Phone: (256) 825-1353
    Address: 797 Moonbrook DrDadeville, AL 36853Private

    Harbor Pointe Marina

    Phone: (256) 825-0600
    Address: 397 Marina Point RdDadeville, AL 36853

    Lakeside Marina

    Phone: (256) 825-9286
    Address: 7361 AL-49 Dadeville, AL 36853

    Russell Marine-The Ridge Marina

    Phone: (334) 857-2741
    Address: Marina Rd Alexander City, AL 35010

    Russell Medical Center

    Phone: (256) 329-7100
    Address: 3316 US-280Alexander City, AL 35010