How big is the lake & is it private?
There are two lakes connected by a culvert pipe that goes under Mountain Rest Lake Road. The "big" lake is approximately 27 acres with about 1.5 miles of shore line. The "small" lake is about 7 acres with about 0.6 miles of shore line. Both lakes are private and there is no public access. MRLPOA members are welcome to use either lake. A small boat ramp is available for members at the big lake and a dock and grassed picnic area are adjacent to the small lake for members use too. All docks on the big lake are private.
Can you swim in the lake?
Yes, lots of swimming in the two lakes.
Are boats allowed on the lake?
Yes, but not just any boat! Small fishing boats like a jon boat or row boat are allowed with an electric trolling motor, but no large boats like runabouts, ski boats, wake boats or personal watercraft are allowed. There are lots of canoes, kayaks and paddle boards used on the lake. The lake(s) is basically one big "No Wake Zone". The property owners association (MRLPOA) does not issue any type of decal or stickers for boats used on the lake and there are no fees currently for using small boats, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards on the lake.
Can you fish in the lake?
The lake(s) are private, but fishing is allowed for members and members with their guests. Its common to find turtles, catfish, bream and largemouth bass in the lake. The *bass are catch and keep, the bream or bluegill and the carp are catch and release only. We ask that you do not target the carp when fishing, the Triploid Grass Carp were added to both lakes to keep down the grasses that can grow in the lake. Annual dues paid by the members go toward this expense.
The current catch and keep or catch and release policy is subject to change.
*Bass that are 12" or greater in length are catch and release only.
Can you rent your house on the lake?
There are no MRLPOA rules against renting your house. Please remember that those renters whether short or long term are your guests and subject to the rules of the association. Residents and their guests must be conscious of their pets and excessive noise that might bother neighbors. Sound travels very well across the water.
Is there trash service?
Proper disposal of household trash and recycling is your responsibility. Oconee county provides centers for disposal of trash and recycling. There is a drop-off location just a short drive away toward the city of Walhalla on Hwy. 28 at Tunnel Town Road. This location is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Is there cellular service in the area?
Yes, there is limited cell coverage in the area. As with any service provider, one company can be better than another.
Is there cable and internet service in the area?
No, there is no cable service in the area. TV and internet are either through satellite service or the landline telephone service provider. Fiber optic cable has recently been run into the community and this faster service is beginning to be installed at private residences. (as of 8/2023)
Are there dues for the HOA?
Yes, dues are to be paid in full by the 31st of January each year. 2024 dues will be $360.
Can I build or have a dock?
No, there is a moratorium on any new dock construction that has been in-place and this is likely to continue indefinitely. An existing dock maybe repaired etc.. but there is a size limitation. There is a common area on the small lake with a dock for use by members as well as a small boat ramp on the big lake for members too. All other docks are private. There is no lake access for the general public. For all the specifics on docks, see the POA's Dock Guidelines.
Who maintains the common areas around the lake?
The POA has a contract with a landscape maintenance provider for various portions of the MRLPOA common areas around the lake that require regular trimming and mowing. Annual dues paid by the members go toward this expense. Not all of the MRLPOA property is mowed, some is left natural.
Does the POA maintain the gravel roads around the lake?
No, all of the roads in the neighborhood are maintained by Oconee County including the gravel roads. Please do not contact a board member about road conditions.