Lake Oliver is a 2,150-acre reservoir on the Chattahoochee River, straddling the Georgia-Alabama border just north of Columbus. Created in 1959 by Georgia Power, the lake stretches 8 miles between Goat Rock Dam and Oliver Dam.

The City Marina of Columbus at the southern end provides the main boat launch, while the Goat Rock Recreation Area on the Alabama side offers a less crowded alternative. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized boating are popular activities on Lake Oliver. The lake's southern section near Columbus and Phenix City has a more urban character, while the northern reaches are more rural.

Fishing is excellent year-round, with anglers targeting spotted bass, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, bluegill, and warmouth. The lake tends to get busier during summer months, especially on weekends. Water levels can fluctuate due to dam operations.

The shoreline offers opportunities for hiking and biking. Wildlife viewing includes various bird species, turtles, and small mammals. The lake's aesthetic is a mix of forested banks and developed areas, with nearly 40 acres of shoreline.

The lake's linear shape lends itself to out-and-back paddling trips. Paddlers should be aware of motorboat traffic, especially during peak summer periods.

While primarily a recreational resource, Lake Oliver also serves as part of the Chattahoochee River's hydroelectric system, influencing its water levels and flow patterns.