Lake Rutledge is a 275-acre lake within Hard Labor Creek State Park offering a peaceful paddling environment with restrictions on motorized boats (only trolling motors and gas engines up to 10 HP allowed). The lake features multiple coves and inlets to explore, with an average depth of 6.5 feet.

A boat ramp with parking area provides the main access point (GPS coordinates: 33.648919, -83.590446), located off CCC Camp Loop. The park charges a $5 parking fee, with annual passes available. Kayak rentals, including single and tandem models, are available through the park. Life jackets are provided with rentals and required for all boaters.

The shoreline is characterized by boulder fields, towering trees, and numerous snags and stumps that provide habitat for wildlife. Paddlers commonly encounter great blue herons, wood ducks, cormorants, turtles, and beavers. The northwestern section of the lake features quiet shallow coves inaccessible to larger boats, making it particularly attractive for wildlife viewing.

The park offers organized paddling programs including night paddles, full moon kayaking, twilight paddles, and stargazing tours led by naturalist guides. These guided experiences typically last about 90 minutes. Independent paddling is permitted until 8 p.m.

The lake's relatively protected waters and restriction on large motorized craft make it particularly suitable for beginner paddlers. A swimming beach and several picnic areas along the shoreline provide convenient rest stops. The lake is part of the historic Hard Labor Creek State Park, developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Note: The beach bathrooms are currently under renovation, which may affect access to the boat dock, swimming beach, and kayak rental facilities.