Summary
North Carolina is abundant with remarkable lakes to explore. From the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, this list presents a range of options for every visitor. Fishing and waterskiing are particularly favored pastimes, so individuals are encouraged to prepare accordingly for summer activities.
Let’s examine the premier lakes to visit in North Carolina:
1. Lake Norman
Lake Norman is recognized as the largest artificial freshwater reservoir in the state. Featuring numerous boat access points and abundant fishing opportunities, this lake is truly a haven for anglers. Additionally, it is home to two yacht clubs for boat storage.
Since its inception in 1964, the lake has attracted a diverse array of wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for bird watching along with animal sightings. Visitors should remain observant for movement in the vegetation bordering the water.
Situated a short drive north of Charlotte, Lake Norman serves as an ideal location for a day or weekend getaway.
2. Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake is conveniently positioned just southwest of Raleigh and south of Durham. This vast reservoir spans approximately 13,940 acres, offering a multitude of activities. Over 1,000 campsites are available along its shore, catering to various camping preferences, including primitive tent sites and full RV hookups. Additionally, the lake features seven beaches nestled between 17 miles of hiking trails.
The surrounding ecosystem is thriving with wildlife, and visitors can engage with the exhibits at the visitor center to gain deeper insights into the local fauna.
3. Lake James
Lake James permits jetskis, fishing, and camping, but is notably recognized for its role as the backdrop for several major films. It served asa stand-in for Lake George in New York for the film “The Last of the Mohicans,” featuring Daniel Day-Lewis, and appeared in the climactic scenes of “The Hunt for Red October.”
The lake presents endless recreational opportunities and is nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina, with hiking trails surrounding it that provide breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains.
4. High Rock Lake
Esteemed for its qualities as one of North Carolina’s premier fishing lakes, High Rock Lake has hosted numerous Bassmaster Classic fishing tournaments. It is especially noted for its plentiful population of largemouth bass. There are numerous boat ramps along the shoreline, both public and private, and the lake imposes no restrictions on boat motor sizes, allowing personal watercraft.
In addition, several private campgrounds are available nearby for camping between fishing excursions.
5. Lake Glenville
Situated a short drive from Sylva in western North Carolina, Lake Glenville secures its place on this list as the highest lake east of the Mississippi River.
Although smaller than other lakes mentioned, it still provides excellent fishing opportunities and boat access, as well as a few short hiking trails along its banks.
6. Badin Lake
Although modest in size, Badin Lake offers breathtaking vistas. Observing sunsets over this lake is a cherished experience visitors should not overlook. A variety of recreational activities are available on and around the lake, including golf, hiking, camping, and hunting. Fishing and boating remain popular aquatic pursuits, with species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, spotted bass, white bass, and striped bass present in the waters. However, trout are not among the species caught here.
7. Lake Wylie
Spanning across both North and South Carolina, Lake Wylie features 325 miles of shoreline. It provides two public boat access points and is surrounded by numerous communities that offer varied activities for visitors.
Additionally, various boat rental services, including pontoon boats, are available on and around the lake. Fishing here is of high quality, complemented by enjoyable recreational opportunities.
8. Nantahala Lake
Nantahala Lake is situated within the Nantahala National Forest, where swimming, boating, and skiing are favored activities. Although smaller in size, this manmade lake was originally created in 1942 to generate electricity for wartime needs. Its rapid descent into deep water due to the surrounding mountains allows for a variety of fish species, including panfish.
The Nantahala River located just downstream is renowned for its exceptional whitewater rafting and kayaking experiences, particularly when water is released from the dam, ensuring excellent conditions for adventure seekers.
9. Lake Mattamuskeet
Lake Mattamuskeet holds the title of the largest natural lake in North Carolina and is relatively shallow, with an average depth of between two and three feet. This shallowness is attributed to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which, conversely, enhances its status as an exceptional birdwatching area, especially during the winter months with significant populations of Northern Pintail, Green-Wing Teal, Canada geese, and tundra swans.
The lake is situated within the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge, close to Greenville and the Outer Banks.
10. Lake Fontana
Situated between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, Lake Fontana boasts numerous inlets, coves, and islands formed by ancient mountain peaks piercing through the tranquil waters, offering extensive exploration opportunities via boat.
The lake is flanked by trails on both sides—Great Smoky Mountain and Nantahala National Forest. Some trailheads are accessible only by boat, especially when water levels are high. This setup provides the primary access to the most remote regions of the Smoky Mountains National Park, with the observation tower at Clingmans Dome offering remarkable panoramic views of the lake from nearly a mile above.
11. Belews Lake
Belews Lake, situated north of Greensboro and Winston-Salem, is popular for boating, fishing, and water skiing due to its expansive surface area that facilitates quality skiing.
Two marinas on the lake provide dining options along with boat rentals, services, and sales. Several camping opportunities exist along the water’s edge, allowing visitors to experience stunning sunsets over the lake.
12. Lake Lure
Lake Lure gained fame as a filming location for the celebrated movie “Dirty Dancing,” featuring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. It has also been a backdrop for various other productions, including “A Breed Apart,” “Firestarter,” “My Fellow Americans,” and “The Last of the Mohicans.”
The lakeside area offers an array of accommodations including lodges, inns, resorts, and campgrounds, ensuring options for all preferences. The lakeshore is dotted with charming towns and activities catering to visitors of all ages, such as ziplining, horseback riding, fishing, trails, beaches, and even a toy museum.
13. Hyco Lake
With 65 campsites available along its shoreline, Hyco Lake is an excellent destination for an overnight stay. The lake also provides two access points for boating and features several hiking trails for those preferring land activities. The area is rich in wildlife, and fishing is considered excellent.
A water skiing course is situated at the lake’s northern end, further enhancing its appeal as a fishing destination.
14. Randleman Lake
Randleman Lake is the most recent addition to this list, established in 2004 and opened for recreation in 2010. Because it is federally managed, a number of regulations apply to recreational activities. While fishing and sailing are allowed, sailboats with masts exceeding 25 feet are not permitted. Furthermore, personal watercraft usage is banned, and boats cannot remain overnight. There are constraints on fueling boats in the vicinity, and a speed limit of 25 miles per hour is enforced.
15. Lake Tahoma
Lake Tahoma is a private lake situated in the Western North Carolina mountains. Speedboats and personal watercraft are prohibited, making it a peaceful fishing destination for those fortunate enough to gain access.
Despite minimal development in the area, a picturesque casino constructed in the 1920s stands proudly at the end of a lengthy pier in the heart of the lake, showcasing stone and wood architectural elements.
