LRA Programs

LRA sponsors programs designed to educate members and other lake users and promote the preservation and conservation of Lake Rabun and the surrounding community. LRA members join together for lake clean-up, boater safety, hiking trail maintenance, hemlock preservation, July 4th festivities, and other activities to accomplish those objectives and foster a strong sense of community.

Programs

July 4th Activities

LRA members assemble every July 4th weekend for the Wooden Boat Parade. LRA sponsors an annual July 4th weekend fireworks show which is enjoyed from boats on the lake and other vantage points and is a popular event for all of Rabun County.  The Rabun Ramble 5K & 10K Road Race is also held each year. Net proceeds from the event go to support the work of the Lake Rabun Foundation along with donations made to Rabun County Search and Rescue and the Lakemont Wiley Fire Department Association.

Lakemont University

Focusing on the educational component of the LRA mission statement, LRA member “professors” and other experts explore diverse topics related to the lake, ranging from local flora and fauna to lake history and traditions. This usually accompanies our fun BINGO night in the Lake Rabun Pavilion.

Lake & Boater Safety

The Association’s lake and boater safety activities are educational and action-oriented. Examples include boater safety and CPR/AED classes, publicity about boating laws and recommendations specific to Lake Rabun, lake clean-up days, regular water testing, and support of the Lakemont Wiley Volunteer Fire Department.

Adopt a Trail & Hemlock Preservation

LRA members work with US Forest Service staff to maintain and improve the very popular Minnehaha Falls Trail, which leads to what is often cited as the most beautiful waterfall in Rabun County. Dedicated LRA volunteers also join Save Georgia’s Hemlocks in treating and preserving disease-infected native hemlocks.

Fundraising for the Lake Rabun Foundation

An incredible spirit of volunteerism is displayed in various fundraising activities to support the Lake Rabun Foundation, including the annual Rabun Ramble 5K/10K race, the Tour of Homes, Smoke on the Mountain BBQ Cookoff, the LocAL Art Show, BINGO Night and various other fundraisers in intervening years, and the sale of member-created publications such as the Gatherings at Lake Rabun cookbook and Georgia’s Lake Como history of the lake.