2. Randleman Lake is the newest lake on our list, created in 2004 and only opened to recreation in 2010. This trail is great for hiking, running, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. With the stimulation of a teeming ecosystem, the hustle and bustle of the city might be less enticing beside the lakes and reservoirs of the Old North State. This would be White Lake, near Elizabethtown NC. You can also find the Tail of the Dragon nearby, which used by motorcyclists and sports cars enthusiasts due to its 11 miles curvy mountain roads. He has spent more than 20 years exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and has a deep passion for nature, history, storytelling, and adventure. Service 4.7. The surrounding Jordan Lake State Recreation Area has seven water access points where visitors can swim, boat, and enjoy views of the waterway. This manufactured North Carolina lake is for recreation. Nantahala is on the smaller side of lakes, though it is manmade. The Lake Gaston Community provides a weekly fishing report to keep visitors constantly updated about whats on the menu, and plenty of lodging and boat rental options set the scene for your greatest catch yet. Aside from the clearest water in North Carolina, the island is also home to over 100 wild horses. This pristine NC beach stretches for, Click for interactive map of the best North Carolina Lakes. Most of the shoreline is private property, but you can find inns and beaches for public use. Because of its proximity to notable tourist sites, many plan to spend their whole vacation exploring the lake and beyond. Swim across the border in Lake Wylie, 325 miles of shoreline that spans between North and South Carolina not far from Rock Hill. It makes todays list due to its place at the top of the highest lakes east of the Mississippi River in the United States. Golf, hiking, camping, and hunting can all be found readily in the area. There is even a boat-in campground for a real outdoor adventure. No matter your age, this Blue Ridge Mountain destination belongs at the top of your outdoor itinerary. 15 Best Lakes In North Carolina For A Waterfront Retreat W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir is a gorgeous 1,475-acre body of water filled with opportunities to commune with nature. Clean streams feed the lake to create crystal clear waters. All . The largely undeveloped shoreline is perfect for weekend camping trips, and the number of put-in spots and clay-covered beaches creates the recipe for a great day. At a Glance. Back to the crystal clear water, though. Fun fact, the lake is named after the local native American word for turkey buzzards, "hicotaminy". If you love searching for shells by the seashore (try and say that out loud) Shackleford Banks is a popular destination for finding the most pristine shells on the coast. Recreational Size and Bag Limits | NC DEQ We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Casual attire at 8:32 AM every Sunday morning. Relish in outdoor adventures, a hike in the woods, a thrilling mountain bike ride, a climb on a sheer rock face, a day on the water fishing, boating, or kayaking. Today it serves as a getaway for people in or around the Raleigh Durham area. The best-hidden waterfalls in North Carolina are: North Carolina could unofficially be called the land of hidden waterfalls. With plenty of lodges, inns, resorts, and campgrounds along the lakeshore, there is sure to be some kind of accommodation that fits your needs. Closer to the Outer Banks than any major cities, it is believed by geologists that the sand within the soil around the lake indicates that the sea level resided there 75,000 years ago. Use the lake for swimming, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. One of the perks of visiting Wrightsville Beach is that it's also one of the most accessible beaches in North Carolina. Colonial waterbirds, in general and on Lake Norman, have been identified as a priority conservation . Near Morganton, three dams converged in the Blue Ridge Mountains to form Lake James, and the local community has capitalized on the development to establish an excellent spot for a day on the water. If you love exploring North Carolina's waterfalls, you should read about some of the most iconic waterfalls in the state. Another popular location for filming blockbuster films, Lake Lure is possibly best known for the popular film Dirty Dancing starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer grey. Fishing and boating are also popular water activities. 728 were here. Whether looking for a lake with rustic charm or more of a multicultural vibe, North Carolina has every need met. Located in North Carolina, Belews Lake real estate is a tight inventory market in the state for lake homes and lake lots. Often called a hidden diamond in the city, the lake covers 365 acres and is known for its reasonably priced boat and kayak rentals. Lake Norman Lake Norman is one of the best lakes in North Carolina Lake Norman's size and central location have made it a local favorite, and now it's known as one of the best lakes in North Carolina. Situated in the western North Carolina mountains, Lake Junaluska is well known for being a retreat center and the ideal place for a summer vacation rental. The typical fauna in the area includes deer, herons, and foxes. Just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem lies Salem Lake. Thank you! Some of the best-kept secret beaches in North Carolina include Emerald Isle Beach, Hammocks Beach State Park in Swansboro, Nag's Head Beach, Ocracoke Beach on Ocracoke Island, Avon Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Wrightsville Beach. Whether you float in a kayak or simply survey the water from the footbridge, spending time here is a soothing experience. Activities (46) Completed (45) Yet, one area has the bluest water of allit might just take a little effort to get there. Lake Mattamuskeet is the largest natural lake in North Carolina and is relatively shallow, averaging between two and three feet throughout the entire lake. Hike or jog along its more than 500 miles of shoreline, or take a dip in its waters, which are a perfect antidote to a North Carolina summer day. Biltmore Lake, located in the namesake town of Biltmore Lake, is known for its beauty. This is also where the famous Appalachian Trail crosses the lake. The Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina are dubbed the Yosemite of the East, and for good reason. 67 Lake Pointe Dr, Yanceyville, NC 27379. At the top of the list is Looking Glass Falls, which is an easy-to-access waterfall located near Brevard within the Pisgah National Forest. You may recognize the Blue Ridge mountains in the backdrop of this mountain lake from Dirty Dancing. This North Carolina lake is built for outdoor fun, highlighted by a trail that loops around the entire lake to give you a glimpse at the local animal and plant life. Scientists speculate that meteors or icebergs carved large holes in the earth to form these anomalies. A privately-owned marina is nearby and offers paddleboard, kayak, and fishing boat rentals. High Rock Lake. Hiking trails; Canoeing; Fishing; Campground; Picnic area; Points of Interest: Price Lake: Visitors can enjoy 47-acre Price Lake is several ways: kayaking and canoeing, fishing, hiking around the edge, or driving across the dam. Lake Fontana represents the laid-back area by offering up a fantastic backdrop for a days pontoon and plenty of multi-day trails that get you into the thick of things. Situated 30 miles west of downtown Raleigh, the lake has over 1,000 campsites that are suitable for tents or RVs. For a slower-paced itinerary, rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, hydro bike, or canoe to explore the more intimate areas of the water. A benefactor of infrastructure revival projects, Falls lake, was built by the army corp of engineers to provide water and power solutions to NCs Triangle region. After decades, the landmark stands as a reminder of Mattamusket's tenacious ecosystem. Lake Nottely is known as a hidden gem to many and is located in Blairsville, GA in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest with a scenic view. Some of the surrounding facilities offer paddle board, kayaks and pontoon boat rentals. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 20 min to complete. North Carolina has its share of watery playgrounds, from human-made bodies of crystal-clear reservoirs to beautiful, naturally-formed lakes. When you book a hotel or tour that we link to, we may earn a commission. He has spent more than 20 years exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and has a deep passion for nature, history, storytelling, and adventure. While Lake James allows jetskis, fishing and camping along its shores, it is perhaps better known for being the set of multiple blockbuster films. There are also restriction on fueling boats in the area. Located southeast in Wilmington, North Carolina, the lake is a few miles from downtown and the Cape Fear River and less than fifteen miles from Carolina Beach. The bass fishing is prime at the lake, so fishing tournaments occur yearly. These mollusks, fish, and other fauna traverse the 9,000 acres of water and delve under the murky surface to depths that max out at 11 feet. Another attraction is the observation tower on the lakeside. It's a completely remote North Carolina oasis. In fact, you can practically drive right up to Looking Glass Falls! During the day there are plenty of things to do in Holden Beach, but in, Its no secret that there are some stunning North Carolina beaches. Price Lake offers an ever-changing landscape for the other three seasons that makes the lake feel different every time you step onto its shores. Get more stories delivered right to your email. North Carolina is famous for its beautiful beaches. Mountainview Bistro and Lodge and Wildwood Grill are two other recommended spots for sampling great American cuisine. There are shuttle services to both Eagle Creek and Hazel Creek, both north shores where you can fish, hike, explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and camp. Another lake close to Charlotte supports a sizable full-time community of inhabitants eager to share their little slice of waterfront heaven. Aside from beaches and hiking spots alone, North Carolina has almost 60 lakes, 22 of which were naturally formed. The . Well, we've done a ton of research, and visited these lakes personally. Here are our top 12 picks for best lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains, in no particular order and organized by state: Located within the splendor of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, a collection of stunning lakes awaits those seeking water, adventure, and nature. Summers spent on this lake beat the heat with the cool water and fresh mountain air. Lets have a look at the best lakes to visit in North Carolina: Lake Norman is the largest manmade body of fresh water in the state. Visitors can swim, enjoy the sun, and sandy beaches located near the main area of Lake Lure. When one thinks beach usually the Atlantic isnt associated with the crystal clear water found in the Caribbean. It is mostly known for its abundance of largemouth bass. Greenfield Park in Wilmington is around 200 acres and surrounds Greenfield Lake. Morgantown Point Recreations is recommended for launching boats as well as having a beach for families relax. But sometimes not seeing the bottom can be a bit nerve-wracking. Also found, tucked in the valleys, are pristine lakes in the mountains where you can soak (pun intended) in the outstanding views and enjoy the many water activities they include. Blue Lake In North Carolina Is A Scuba Diver's Paradise Boaters from the states central region have plenty of launch points at this lake, and five designated swimming areas provide plenty of spaces to take a dip. Be sure to keep you eyes peeled for anything rustling in the bushes along the waters edge! Those that are into whitewater rafting can enjoy the water being released from the dam, giving you a Class IV and V rapids several times a year. Some trailheads can only be reached by boat when the water is high. Summertime is a highlight as skiers, swimmers, and boaters flock to the water to enjoy recreation. With festivals, shops and restaurants, parks, and plenty of boating and hiking activities, Lake Norman allows visitors to reconnect with nature while also enjoying the comforts of home. Hotels and restaurants are located all around the lake as well for those that want an extended break. Along with the usual boating, swimming and fishing in the beautiful, clear waters of 6,812-acre Lake James, there are also hiking and biking trails, campgrounds as well. Near Nebo NC. This lack of depth is due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Home - North Carolina - 20 BEST Lakes In North Carolina to Visit. North Carolina is overflowing with wonderful lakes to visit! Head to this unique body of water for one-of-a-kind wildlife sightings for your next trip. The alpine lake sits at the foot of Grandfather mountain, deep in the Appalachian mountain region on the states western front. What are your favorite crystal clear swimming holes in the Tar Heel State? Lake Tahoma is a private lake located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The lake is 3,290 acres, 11 miles long, has 65 miles of shoreline, that is only 25% developed. Fishing is quality as are the good times to be had here! The Crystal Coast section of North Carolina is home to turquoise surf and white sand. Nearby activities include horseback riding and Meeks Park. There's a reason this area is known as the Crystal Coast! Today it maintains a typical depth of 3 feet, although, with global warming, its depths are slowly rising between 6 to 7 feet. Although this body of water is on the smaller side, it still provides a respite for those who want peace and calm. This is heavily debated, but most would agree that Lake Blue Ridge, near Blue Ridge GA has the most beautiful lake view in Georgia. For people who want to dine and imbibe in a busier area, the small towns of Lexington and Salisbury have plenty of options. Primitive campsites are available around the lake( no water or toilets available) and no permits nor fees are required. PowerNation. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, spotted bass, white bass, and striped bass can all be found in the lake. | Reviewed by Elizabeth Von Tersch | Last updated on June 6, 2023 From a family-friendly vacation to a Nicholas Sparks-inspired getaway, the coast of North Carolina is characterized by wide,. There are two marinas on the lake that offer places to eat and boat rentals, sales, and service. Some of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in North Carolina include Lake Lure, Lake Mattamuskeet, Lake Norman, Jordan Lake, Lake Tillery, Nantahala Lake, Lake Phelps, Lake Gaston, and White Lake.
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