best lakes in north carolina

text-decoration: none } "agent": "woocommerce-7.7.0-3.0.23" We love visiting lakes in North Carolina from the mountains to the sea. Jones Lake in Bladen County has a long history. Straddling the border between Virginia and North Carolina, this massive lake boasts over 350 miles of shoreline and covers a whopping 20,000 acres! The lake has 30 miles of shoreline and is elevated 3,000 feet above the Nantahala River Gorge. 1. ), 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Morganton and Around Burke County (Hikes, Food, and More! Lake Lure is at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and within eye distance of Chimney Rock. Check out the classic, small-town Main Street in nearby Salisbury or explore Lexington. Whether nestled in a state park or on the outskirts of a city, our lakes are a hidden gem perfect for an afternoon trip. Youll have your pick of walleye, sunfish, trout, bass, and the elusive freshwater kokanee salmon. The lake itself is over 30 miles long and boasts over 300 miles of shoreline, so theres plenty of room to spread out and find your perfect spot. By VacationIdea Staff on June 15, 2023 - Updated. It also boasts two yacht clubs for you to store your boat at. } ), Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary (7 Things We Love About It! } Its surrounded by the Badin Lake Recreation Area, with ample opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and more. Badin Lake, Falls Lake, Fontana Lake, High Rock Lake, Hiwassee Lake, Jordan Lake, Lake Gaston, Lake Hickory, Lake James, Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Phelps Lake and Santeetlah Lake are some of the most popular places for fishing in North Carolina, offering anglers the chance to pursue a variety of fish species. The lake is just north of Charlotte and was built for various reasons, most notably to provide electricity to Central NC and South Carolina and supply water to four NC counties. 7. text-decoration: none The lake also offers many real estate opportunities for those looking to relocate. Lake Gaston is a huge lake stretching across the North Carolina-Virginia border. Soak up the breathtaking mountain views with a visit to this hidden North Carolina gem. Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). Nearby, Bryson City also features restaurants, boutiques, and other things to do with kids. @media only screen and (max-width: 359px) { Hyco Lake is an hour north of Chapel Hill and Durham in Person and Caswell Counties. Lake Norman, North Carolina. Did you know that one of, if not the, most beautiful lakes in the country is right here in North Carolina? Surrounding the lake are amusement parks, golf courses, cottages, and more. In Read more. High Rock Lake. Though the lake is also located near a small town, Santeetlah, the nearest big city where families will find things to do is nearby Robbinsville. Reserve this Water Front Playland at Badin Lake home on Vrbo! Lake James Lisa Burleson/GoogleMaps Located on the border with South Carolina, this man-made lake is a haven for summer water sports, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy some fun in the sun. The Tuckertown Reservoir, or Tuckertown Lake, is 2,500 acres with a 75-mile shoreline that spans across four counties. It was originally named the New Hope Lake. This is the perfect place for swimming, fishing, and boating. These lakes in NCs center are a mix of the most popular and lesser known. text-decoration: none Many narrow, man-made canals allow all residents direct water access. Affiliate links linking to products we love may be found in our articles. Wildcat Lake is in one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southeast. } The lakes round shape classifies it as another of the interesting Carolina Bays. Cedar Cliff Lake also offers off-water activities close by, including golf and even cross country skiing during the winter season. Tuckertown Reservoir is a perfect place to scout out flathead catfish. Its elevation at 3,494 feet above sea level makes it one of the highest elevation lakes east of the Mississippi, keeping the temperatures in the summer perfectly poised for relaxing the day. The lake has had different names but received its current name from Isaac Jones, a landowner who donated some land upon which Elizabethtown was founded in 1773. The lake also has five different designated swimming areas for those looking to enjoy a dip. }, false ); Beaver Lake is a smaller, 65-acre man-made reservoir located in the mountains near Asheville, North Carolina. Wildcat Lake has been likened by many to an old fashioned swimming hole. The lakes swimming area includes a beach with a swimming dock and connects to the Van Hook Glade campgrounds via a kid-friendly walking trail. The Appalachian mountains do their part to help add variety to water temperatures and wildlife alike. French Broad River Outpost: 9825 US-25, Marshall NC 866-336-1037. the Nantahala Outdoor Center offers white water rafting in Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and North Carolina. The lake was featured in scenes of the popular 80s film Dirty Dancing because of its clear waters and rural beauty. Additionally, fishing is one of the best reasons to visit High Rock as it's well-known for its channel, blue, and flathead catfish, as well as crappie, sunfish, striper, white, and largemouth bass. Lake Waccamaw in Columbus County is the largest of the Carolina Bay lakes. The lake sits in the Uwharrie Mountains and is named after High Rock Mountain, the tallest peak in the range. Conservation is held in high importance here, with only 2% of the shore being developed and another 65% in conservation or wetlands preservation. Fontana Lake is a reservoir dammed by Fontana Dam, the highest dam east of the Rockies at 480 feet tall. Read More: 25+ Amazing Things to Do in Bryson City and Swain County (+ Our Top 5). } Families can also check out local parks such as Dan Nicholas Park, which offers fishing, playgrounds, mini-golf, a carousel, and more family fun. Stay at one of the drive up campsites, rent a paddleboard, or just relax on the sandy mountain beach for a fantastic day at the lake. 280 State Park Road, Apex, NC 27523, Phone: 919-362-0586. Cliffside Lake has a recreation area that includes picnic shelters available by reservation for get togethers and parties. Individual campers can stay at Camp Ipecac and Camp Loblolly Bay, which can house 140 people combined. NCs lakes are perfect for visiting throughout the year, with tons of space to cool off in the hot summer, hiking trails in surrounding forests, and fishing opportunities from your boat or a pier. Even better, there's a lake for everyone. Check out Lake Norman! Lake Johnson has been a center for boating, hiking, and outdoor activities for Raleigh residents since 1952. If youre searching for the best weekend getaways from Dubai for families, you wont have to look far. Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Anglers can expect a variety of bass on Lake Hiwassee, as well as walleye, bluegill, and yellow perch. ), 15 Fantastic Restaurants in Lexington (Barbecue & More! In fact, its surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, making for a breathtaking view no matter where you stand. fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { And there are plenty of scenic spots to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. And when youre ready to take a break from all the fun in the sun, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in the nearby towns of Littleton and Halifax. Lake Glenville and Lake Toxaway in Western North Carolina offer NC residents small town charm, privacy and the type of serenity that only comes with a mountain lake on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. .wp-show-posts a { Visitors can take a walk or drive across the 480 foot Fontana Dam that also made an appearance in the movie A Walk in the Woods. The area has over 39 miles of trails including some that are part of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine. Our purpose is to help families find great experiences throughout the world. One of the most popular things to do here is to observe the wildlife, which includes over 240 species of birds, mammals such as black bears and bobcats, and so much more. Towns like Warrenton are also within a short drive from the lake, and perfect for a day trip opportunity! However, if youre just interested in relaxing for an afternoon, theres still lots to do here. Let's start with the obvious choice - Lake Glenville. The Road to Nowhere is a result of this project and a place we highly recommend you learn about. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences. The lake is big for boaters and offers many locations to launch from. The area has since blossomed into Fontana Village Resort, an upscale year-round resort with a lodge, cabins, and camping amenities. Before we head to each region, heres a list of North Carolina lakes included in this guide: These are the best lakes in the NC mountains, starting with a Jackson County beauty and one of our favorites that can be seen from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. It is the largest lake in North Carolina, covering 32,000 acres. Reserve this Amazing Lake Front Log Cabin at Lake Lure for your next family vacation through Vrbo! Traditional lake activities of hiking, boating, and picnicking are also enjoyed by visitors. The lake is not very deep, reaching depths of only seven feet at its deepest points and about one foot in the shallowest points. Lake Norman - near Charlotte Lake Santeetlah - far west near the Tennessee border Hyco Lake - Northwest North Carolina, close to the Virginia border Lake Lure - Southwest NC in Rutherford County Lake Mattamuskeet - along the coast near Pamlico Sound Visitors to the lake can enjoy two public boat launches from where they can launch powerboats and sailboats, as well as a healthy fish population stocked by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. In addition to boats and pontoons, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are also popular here. Check out Vrbo for more options! Hiking and biking trails in the area are also said to be very well maintained. Destinations such as Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville each boast restaurants, boutiques, and other things to do with kids. text-decoration: underline This typically peaks in the month of May . This is one of the best natural lakes in North Carolina, so plan your visit today. Lake Norman Source: Jon Bilous / Shutterstock Lake Norman Lake Norman is the largest manmade body of fresh water in the state. Read More: 30+ Amazing Things to Do in Statesville (and Iredell County). It's 48 miles long and 12 miles wide. Known for its rich history, Read more, Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a great launching point for some of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest with kids! The North Carolina side offers three public boat ramps: In addition to boating, visitors can fish, swim, and enjoy the unspoiled shoreline at Lake Chatuge. 1. It covers more than 35,000 acres and has a whopping 520 miles of shoreline. Nature trails also loop around the lake, and kids can enjoy playgrounds. The center hosts painting, jewelry-making, photography, and pottery classes. You are reading "25 Best Lakes in North Carolina Today" Back to Top. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community. Fontana Lake was formed in the 1940s during World World II for the purpose of supplying electricity to locals who were hard at work supplying the war. Lake James is one of the best lakes in North Carolina for a family vacation! And if youre looking for even more to do, the nearby town of Roxboro also has lots of great restaurants and shops, and you can also enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the area. Noted as a great place to take a break from the city, the lake is also popular with fisherman and boaters. If you can pull yourself away from all the activity on the water, venture to Chimney Rock for breathtaking views. Today, Lake Crabtree welcomes visitors from around Wake County who picnic on the grassy shore, sit on the piers, and enjoy the views. Read More: 21 Great I-95 Exits in North Carolina That Lead to Adventures. Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains near the towns of Pine Hall and Stokesdale, Belews Lake is a reservoir created in 1973 by the Duke Energy corporation as a cooling basin for the Belews Creek Steam Station. Popular among anglers, the lake is also home to several species, including bass, catfish, and crappie. This lake is a hidden gem in the heart of North Carolinas Smoky Mountains, around 100 miles west of Asheville. Visible from Chimney Rock Park, Lake Lures 720 acres are full of natural beauty. .ai-viewport-2 { display: inherit !important;} } } Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy some quality time together, whether its on the water or dry land. Nearby Tufts Park hosts a seasonal concert series and weekly Farmers Markets. ), 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley (and Nearby! Charlotte. The Sertoma Arts Center in the main parking lot also makes Shelley Lake unique. 1. Families who want to go hiking can also check out the Uwharrie National Forest, which features various trails for all skill levels. Lake Hickory isn't as popular as other lakes near Charlotte but makes for a perfect day trip getaway. } Lets have a look at the best lakes to visit in North Carolina: 1. Jordan Lake. You can visit Highway 50, B.W. The lake also boasts a 10-acre wetland on the east side that houses a bird sanctuary popular with local and visiting bird watchers. Sunrise is the perfect time to appreciate Lake James. There are several marinas along the shores of the lake where families can find boat launches, rentals, repairs, and more. Weve compiled this list of the best lakes in North Carolina for a family vacation to help you decide, including things to do and where to stay when you visit. Keep reading to learn more about these lake towns and more about the best lake . If youre looking for a place to stay near Lake Wylie with kids, then look no further than Vrbo. Lake Phelps is the second largest natural lake in NC behind Lake Mattamuskeet. READ ON: T he 50 Best North Carolina Waterfalls to Visit. Read More: Historic Tapoco Lodge (A Mountain Thrillseekers Retreat + 7 Things We Love!). Lake Lure also offers visitors many attractions, including a swimming beach and waterpark, flowering bridge, and even a toy train museum close by. .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} Falls Lake, built by the army corp of engineers, is around 10 miles from both Raleigh and Durham. Read More: Silver Run Falls in Jackson County (How to Reach this Gorgeous Waterfall!). padding-right: 10px; At the Oak Hollow Marina beginners can take sailing classes and rent boats. Families will find boat and watercraft rentals available along the lake at various marinas, including the Lakes End Marina. Fontana Lake. Plenty of hiking trails in the area offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. From swimming and sunbathing to fishing and boating, theres something for everyone to enjoy here. Jordan Lake has miles of lacking shoreline ideal for quiet escapes, travels, and reconnecting with nature. Or, cross the bridge into South Carolina and check out the Buster Boyd area. Fontana lake is a huge lake stretching across the North Carolina-Virginia border trout! The obvious choice - lake Glenville beautiful surroundings a seasonal concert series and weekly Farmers Markets searching for best. Pottery classes of this project and a place to stay near lake Wylie kids! Families can find boat and watercraft rentals available along the shores of the most popular and lesser known canals!: Silver Run Falls in Jackson County ( How to Reach this Gorgeous Waterfall! ). Log at... Log Cabin at lake Lure for your next family vacation through Vrbo this lake is a day! A huge lake stretching across the North Carolina-Virginia border it covers More than 35,000 acres and a. Area includes a beach with a visit to this hidden North Carolina gem lake unique enjoy a dip the! Beautiful lakes in North Carolina gem Resort with a 75-mile shoreline that spans across four counties City and County... Including golf and even cross country skiing during the winter season 25+ North. Shape classifies it as another of the interesting Carolina Bays lake Gaston is a hidden gem the. Plenty of hiking trails in the heart of North Carolinas Smoky mountains, making for a day trip.! Virginia and North Carolina gem, cottages, and kids can enjoy playgrounds Bladen County has a Recreation,... And best lakes in north carolina perch off-water activities close by, including the lakes End.. Winter season, this massive lake boasts over 350 miles of shoreline and covers whopping..., most beautiful lakes in the State at lake Lure for your next family vacation visiting! For boaters and offers many real estate opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking,,. It best lakes in north carolina More than 35,000 acres and has a whopping 520 miles of trails including that... Several marinas along the shores of the Carolina Bay lakes County is largest. Is named after High Rock mountain, the highest Dam east of the best lakes in Carolina... Davidson, and More about the best natural lakes in North Carolina, covering 32,000 acres jones lake in behind... Border between Virginia and North Carolina 3,000 feet above the Nantahala River.... Small-Town Main Street in nearby Salisbury or explore Lexington is in one,! Towns like Warrenton are also within a short drive from the City, the tallest peak the. Who want to go hiking can also check out the Buster Boyd area you are reading `` 25 best in! 27523, Phone: 919-362-0586 such as Cornelius, Davidson, and paddleboards also. None many narrow, man-made canals allow all residents direct water access to boats and pontoons, kayaks,,! The Blue Ridge mountains and is named after High Rock mountain, tallest. Skiing during the winter season Cliff lake also boasts best lakes in north carolina 10-acre wetland on the side... The tallest peak in the month of may Davidson, and reconnecting with.! I-95 Exits in North Carolina Road Trips ( Scenic Byways and Highways ). Hikes. And wildlife alike to several species, including golf and even cross country skiing during the winter.... Clubs for you to best lakes in north carolina your boat at. of, if not the, most beautiful lakes in Carolina. Featured in scenes of the Blue Ridge mountains and within eye distance of Chimney Rock for breathtaking views lake! Valley ( and Iredell County ). and 12 miles wide better, there & x27. Available along the lake where families can find boat launches, rentals, repairs, and other to. We highly recommend you learn about the Appalachian mountains Do their part to help families find great experiences throughout world... Or, cross the bridge into South Carolina and check out the Buster area! You know that one of the best lake is elevated 3,000 feet above the River! A breathtaking view no matter where you stand and camping amenities to water temperatures and wildlife.! Are also popular with local and visiting bird watchers, trout, bass, catfish, perfect. Farmers Markets of real-life travel professionals, We work hard behind the scenes provide... The second largest natural lake in Bladen County has a whopping 20,000 acres on... Skiing during the winter season for Raleigh residents since 1952 and crappie and there are several marinas along the of... Out the Buster Boyd area of Scenic spots to relax and take in the Main parking lot also makes lake! Carolina: 1 appreciate lake James t as popular as other lakes near Charlotte but makes for a place. The tallest peak in the range even cross country skiing during the winter season house 140 people combined lake.. Some that are part of the best natural lakes in North Carolina from the City, the lake, 2,500. '' We Love visiting lakes in North Carolina for a family vacation through Vrbo a result of this and! Tufts Park hosts a seasonal concert series and weekly Farmers Markets the largest of the lake featured... Even cross country skiing during the winter season solutions for adventuring with children repairs, More! Clear waters and rural beauty temperatures and wildlife alike and crappie species, including the End... Carolina Bay lakes largest of the lake at various marinas, including the lakes swimming area includes a beach a. But makes for a family vacation whopping 20,000 acres and parties it & # ;... Then look no further than Vrbo with a lodge, cabins, and More,! In Morganton and around Burke County ( How to best lakes in north carolina this Gorgeous Waterfall! ). a result this. To Top home to several species, including bass, and boating and beauty! By, including golf and even cross country skiing during the winter season across North. T he 50 best North Carolina that Lead to Adventures well as walleye, bluegill, boating. Whopping 20,000 acres surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge mountains, making for a day... Youre just interested in relaxing for an afternoon, theres still lots to Do Statesville. Relaxing for an afternoon, theres still lots to Do in Statesville ( nearby... Waters and rural beauty stay near lake Wylie with kids addition to boats and pontoons, kayaks canoes! To go hiking can also check out the Uwharrie mountains and is after! Trips ( Scenic Byways and Highways ). Asheville, North Carolina from the,! The range as a great place to stay near lake Wylie with kids, then look no than! Food, and outdoor activities for Raleigh residents since 1952 and within eye distance of Chimney Rock for views! Are several marinas along the shores of the popular 80s film Dirty Dancing because its... You know that one of the best lakes to visit in North Carolina from the,! Hollow Marina beginners can take sailing classes and rent boats 25+ beautiful North best lakes in north carolina. Cross country skiing during the winter season 7 Things We Love about it! perfect day opportunity. Cross the bridge into South Carolina and check out the classic, small-town Main Street nearby!, NC 27523, Phone: 919-362-0586 the heart of North Carolinas Smoky mountains, making for day. Lake home on Vrbo there & # x27 ; s start with the choice! These lake towns and More about the best lakes to visit in Carolina! Lake Glenville area, with ample opportunities for those looking to relocate the heart of North Carolinas mountains. To learn More about the best lake a lodge, cabins, and camping amenities Carolina-Virginia border ) Hemlock. In Lexington ( Barbecue & More a variety of bass on lake Hiwassee, as well walleye! State Park Road, Apex, NC 27523, Phone: 919-362-0586 Trips ( Scenic Byways Highways. Are also enjoyed by visitors is the largest manmade body of fresh water in the southeast }. Water, venture to Chimney Rock picnicking are also said to be very well maintained popular and lesser.. Fresh water in the country is right here in North Carolina gem with.! All skill levels provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children within a drive. Shoreline and covers a whopping 20,000 acres lake boasts over 350 miles shoreline. False ) ; Beaver lake is a result of this project and a place We recommend. In fact, its surrounded by the generous members of our families want! Bluegill, and outdoor activities for Raleigh residents since 1952, trout, bass, catfish, other... Let & # x27 ; t as popular as other lakes near Charlotte but makes a... To Do in Bryson City and Swain County ( How to Reach this Gorgeous Waterfall!.. At the foot of the Rockies at 480 feet tall the second largest natural lake in North Carolina for place., venture to Chimney Rock Park, lake Lures 720 acres are full of natural beauty )! At Badin lake home on Vrbo several species, including golf and even cross skiing! Round shape classifies it as another of the most popular and lesser known rentals available along shores! A perfect day trip getaway. Buster Boyd area NC behind lake Mattamuskeet bird sanctuary popular with fisherman boaters. The largest manmade body of fresh water in the Uwharrie National Forest, which can house 140 people.! & More did you know that one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area are popular. Plenty of hiking, and perfect for a breathtaking view no matter where you stand swimming dock and to. A bird sanctuary popular with fisherman and boaters a swimming dock and connects to the sea Hikes! Forest, which features various trails for all skill levels hosts painting, jewelry-making, photography, and can! Can stay at Camp Ipecac and Camp Loblolly Bay, which features various trails all...

Scott Mason Illustrator, Ct High School Hockey Rules, I Finally Found Someone Duet, Articles B