About Full Pool
1,071 ft above mean sea level is the congressionally authorized normal operating level, set when Buford Dam was completed in 1957. At full pool the lake covers roughly 38,000 acres.
Seasonal Pattern
The Corps lowers the lake in fall and winter (1,060–1,065 ft) to create flood storage, then refills to full pool by late spring for the summer recreation season.
Boating & Docks
Boat ramps, docks, and marinas are designed around full pool. When the lake drops 3+ feet, some ramps become unusable and docks may sit on dry land.
Data Source
Live readings from USGS Gauge 02334400 (Lake Sidney Lanier at Buford Dam), recording reservoir elevation every 15 minutes. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Seasonal Water Temperature
Lake Lanier has no public live water-temperature gauge, so these are typical surface ranges by season — a guide, not a live reading. Actual temps vary by cove, depth, time of day, and recent weather.
Surface only — deeper water stays markedly colder year-round. Coldest near January (low 40s°F), warmest in July (surface can approach the upper 80s).