From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast, North Carolina is home to endless miles of scenic beauty. Throughout the state, you will discover serene lakes with mountain backdrops as well as man-made reservoirs that are perfect for your favorite water sports. No matter what type of trip you are planning, you will find that the best lakes in North Carolina offer breathtaking beauty and a natural escape from the world around you.
Below, we detail the seven best lakes in North Carolina to visit:
1. Lake Norman
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Located: North of Charlotte, North Carolina
Best for: Family vacations that include fishing, boating and playing in the sand.
Famously known as the largest man-made lake in the state, Lake Norman has become one of the top vacation spots for families looking to soak up the natural beauty of this state. This massive lake can be found about 20 miles away from Charlotte, making it an ideal day trip destination for those visiting the city. However, it's a vacation destination in its own right as well, providing local families and visitors with a gorgeous place to relax, take a boat ride, cast a reel or bike the local trails. Many people who are staying in Lake Norman for the weekend or for the entire week rent pontoons, paddleboards or fishing boats in order to maximize their time on the lake.
The lake towns that surround Lake Norman are known for their Southern charm and hospitality. When they aren't spending their time on the water or soaking up the sun on the shores, travelers often find themselves shopping at boutiques in the historic downtown areas or enjoying the freshest catch at a local restaurant.
2. Lake Lure
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Located: East of Asheville, North Carolina
Best for: Romantic getaways and family vacations that feature scenic views and outdoor fun
Spanning more than 800 acres, Lake Lure is one of the largest of all the North Carolina lakes. For years, it has been considered one of the best family vacation destinations in North Carolina, due to the fact that this sparkling lake offers a serene respite from the busyness of daily life. Popular activities at Lake Lure include boating, water skiing and canoeing, but visitors should know that they will need an annual boat permit if they are bringing their private boat to use on Lake Lure.
With the Blue Ridge Mountains as the perfect backdrop, Lake Lure is an ideal fishing location. Whether fishing in the lake or in the streams nearby, avid fishermen will find that they might catch Rainbow Trout, Large Mouth and Small Mouth Bass, Crappie, Catfish, Sun-perch or more. It's a dream come true for those who love to spend their days casting a line and bringing home a fresh catch.
No matter how you choose to spend your day in Lake Lure, one of the best ways to unwind in the evening is to enjoy a local restaurant in town. La Strada at Lake Lure is a fine dining restaurant that offers you the luxury, comfort and nourishment after a day on the lake.
3. Appalachia Lake
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Located near: Murphy, North Carolina
Best for: Weekend trips that include hiking, kayaking, canoeing and more
Those in search of natural tranquility and a serene atmosphere will love Appalachia Lake, which is a quiet lake in Murphy, North Carolina. As with many of the other top lakes in North Carolina, this lake is a perfect spot for fishing, boating or simply soaking up the views.
The nearby Cherokee Lake Picnic Area is one of the best places to rest, relax and enjoy a picnic meal as you soak up the impossibly gorgeous views that surround you. Once you have finished your picnic, you will find that the nearby hiking trails allow you to experience all that this region has to offer. Many of the trails feature spectacular lakefront views, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
4. Lake James
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Located: Northeast of Asheville, North Carolina
Best for: Family vacations and weekend fishing trips
Having long been considered a favorite family vacation destination, Lake James is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. As one of the best lakes in North Carolina, Lake James does not disappoint. With endless ways to enjoy the region, families can truly create their own adventure during their stay. Popular activities at Lake James include fishing, boating, swimming and water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm, cool waters are refreshing, particularly in the warm summer months, allowing you to soak up every moment with your family.
In addition, Lake James is conveniently located near some of the top attractions in Asheville. If you are looking for an enjoyable and historic day trip during your Lake James vacation, consider visiting the Biltmore Estate. Famous for being the largest home in the country, the Biltmore Estate is a captivating Gilded Age mansion that was once the private home of George Vanderbilt III.
5. High Rock Lake
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Located in: the North Carolina Piedmont Region
Best for: Family vacations, group trips and weekend adventures that include boating and other water sports
Stretching for more than 30 miles, High Rock Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in North Carolina. Favored by those who love thrilling water sports, this is the lake to visit if you want to spend endless hours cruising in your boat.
This natural playground features more than 300 miles of shoreline, ensuring that all visitors have the room that they need to spend time with their family, splash in the waves or take a boat ride. When you aren't spending your time on or in the water, you will find that the charming towns that surround High Rock Lake are perfect for shopping, dining and soaking up the local culture. From vintage candy shops to fine dining restaurants, there are hidden gems for every type of traveler to discover.
Not only does High Rock Lake appeal to adventurous travelers and fun-loving families, but it also attracts birdwatchers who love to see their favorite feathered friends in flight. No matter which time of year you visit High Rock Lake, you will find excellent birdwatching opportunities along the quiet shoreline.
6. Lake Glenville
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Located near: the Blue Ridge Mountains in Jackson County, North Carolina
Best for: Families and couples who enjoy hiking, biking and scenic views
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Glenville is known as one of the highest elevation lakes in the state. Travelers come from both near and far in order to experience its unparalleled natural beauty and panoramic mountain views. Like all of the popular North Carolina lakes, Lake Glenville is an ideal spot for fishing, boating, swimming and sunbathing. The calm waters make it the perfect spot for kayaking and canoeing, especially if you want to experience the endless beauty of this massive lake.
One of the most popular activities in Lake Glenville is waterfall hunting. With three waterfalls nearby, boaters will often take a tour around the lake in order to see Mill Creek Falls, Norton Falls and Hurricane Falls. If you'd rather see the waterfalls from land, consider visiting Pines Recreation Area, which is home to several trails that will take you directly to the waterfalls, all while allowing you to experience some of the best hiking in North Carolina.
The public beach at Lake Glenville is a favorite among the families who are traveling to the area. In addition to having a soft, sandy shoreline for children to enjoy, the beach access area also has a fishing pier and picnic area. It's worth noting, however, that this area is only open during the summer season.
7. Badin Lake
Wasrts / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Located in: the North Carolina Piedmont Region
Best for: Travelers who are fishing enthusiasts and avid hikers
Tucked away in the Uwharrie National Forest, Badin Lake is a tranquil lake that is considered to be one of the best day trips from Charlotte. It offers a more rustic atmosphere, with limited facilities available, making it appealing to those who are looking to escape the crowds that may descend upon other more well-known lakes in North Carolina.
Popular activities at Badin Lake include hiking and fishing. While pontoon boating and canoeing are particularly popular on this calm and quiet lake, those who want to fish from the shores will find that there are several fishing piers. Badin Lake is also home to a swimming beach, giving families the perfect place to enjoy refreshing, playful moments together.
Campers will find that this is an excellent weekend getaway destination or the perfect spot to spend a quiet week away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Badin Lake is not as developed as some of the other popular lakefront destinations in North Carolina, but it is a wonderful place to soak up the natural beauty and serenity of this state.
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