Abstract: Samples were collected in 2022 in the basin of Poyang Lake into the Yangtze River to analyze the spatial distribution characteristics and sources of heavy metals in the surface water and groundwater and to evaluate the risk of heavy metals to human health. The major cations and anions in the water from the study area were Ca2+, and HCO3- and SO42-, respectively. Water-rock interaction was the primary source of the chemical components of groundwater. The average concentration of heavy metals in the surface water was in the order of Cr>Fe>Zn>Pb>Cu>Mn. Cr concentration had the most significant variation range. Cr and Fe contributed the most to the total concentration of heavy metals in surface water, accounting for 54.36% and 19.50%, respectively. The average concentration of heavy metals in groundwater was in the order of Mn>Fe>Cr>Zn>Pb>Cu. Heavy metal pollution in the study area may come from wastewater discharged from smelters and urban industries. Cr had the highest risk to human health in both surface water and groundwater. The HQder and HI values of Cr in surface water were >1, followed by Pb. The HQder and HI values of Cr in groundwater were >1, followed by Mn. This study provides a scientific basis for the protection of groundwater resources and the safety of drinking water in Poyang Lake Basin.