Located just about 30 minutes southeast of Birmingham, Alabama, Lay Lake is a scenic 12,000-acre reservoir that has become one of the most beloved recreational spots in the entire state.

With both the extensive shoreline and proximity to Birmingham, this waterfront vacation spot is sure to offer something for every member of the family.

Bordering St. Clair, Talladega, Shelby, Coosa, and Chilton counties, this body of water is centrally-located and offers nearly 300 miles of shoreline for visitors to enjoy.

Impounded by the Alabama Power Company in 1914, the lake now serves as both a hydroelectric power source as well as an extremely popular fishing and boating spot.

Known for its deep, cool water, boaters flock to this lake to participate in the most popular of water sports including skiing, swimming, and fishing.

This body of water is bustling with several varieties of bass, crappie, and catfish. Hosting some of the nation's top fishing tournaments on an annual basis, Lay Lake was the site of the Bassmaster Classic in February 2010 and will continue to be a regular stop for the sport fishing circuit.

If outdoor activities are a family favorite, two of Alabama's most visited national forests are within a short drive.

Both Oak Mountain State Park, which is located outside of Birmingham, and Talladega National Forest, which lies northeast of the lake near the city of Sylacauga, present yet another opportunity for fun while on your visit. Situated in the Appalachian foothills, you will find some of best hiking trails in entire state.

Oak Mountain is the largest state park in Alabama where visitors can partake in an assortment of activities. Mountain biking trails, horseback riding, camping, golfing, tennis, and swimming are just a few of the offerings available to guests.

The park is also home to the Alabama Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Founded in 1977, this non-profit has grown into the largest wildlife rehabilitation clinic in the state with a special expertise in working with native birds.

Talladega National Forest spreads across nearly 400,000 acres and is home to more than 800 species of wild animals including white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, as well as several threatened and endangered critters.

With great elevation changes ranging from 50 to 2,000 feet, rock climbing and rappelling is a great way to experience this beautiful forest first-hand.

Once you've mentioned Talladega, you can't forget to highlight Talladega Speedway which is longest NASCAR oval race track in the nation and within driving distance of the lake.

With so much to do, Lay Lake has become an ever-growing community of waterfront residents and still a large amount of undeveloped shoreline. Whether it's a more permanent lakefront house you're looking for or a simple lakefront cottage to get away to, you are sure to find something that fits your taste at Lay Lake.