blue lake in north carolina

The bass fishing is prime at the lake, so fishing tournaments occur yearly. Sapphire Valley and the Highlands - Cashiers Plateau stand on the edge of the massive cliff line known as the Blue Ridge Escarpment. There is a fee to use the sandy beach, but your ticket also gives you access to a water park and picnic tables. Most importantly - Enjoy your time exploring the stunning lakes and picturesque landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains! What is the most beautiful lake view in Georgia? Status: Active. The Lake Gaston Day Use Area is a public access location with a swimming site, boat ramp, and fishing. The 20 Best NC Swimming Holes for Summer (2023) - Blue Ridge Mountains A depression formed the shallow lake after ocean waters receded thousands of years ago, but that doesn't dampen the local legend of the Waccamaw Siouan tribe that a meteorite created the lake. The blue lake covers over 30,000 acres and reaches depths of up to 110 feet. 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. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, spotted bass, white bass, and striped bass can all be found in the lake. In fact, you can practically drive right up to Looking Glass Falls! Each spot meshes with the rustic appeal of Lure Lake, and the shops can help vacationers camp with ease. It also boasts two yacht clubs for you to store your boat at. 25 Best Lakes in North Carolina - VacationIdea.com There are no boat restrictions across the lake, and there are numerous put-in locations. This humongous lake has attracted many of the millionaire NASCAR drivers and their teams to put down roots on Lake Norman as it sits just 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte. Now, the clearest lake in the NC that IS in the Blue Ridge Mountains is, in our opinion, Lake James. Lake James State Park. This trail is great for hiking, running, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. There are so many incredible beaches scattered along the coast of North Carolina that it can be overwhelming to pinpoint the single most beautiful. He loves sharing his mountain adventures and knowledge with more than 500,000 people per month on Blue Ridge Mountain Life. This hamlet holds a rich history and thriving cultural scene. Located just outside the Piedmont, Hanging Rock is perfect for a quick day trip! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the Carolinas, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. Restoration underway for Great Blue Heron rookery in Lake Norman Hertford, North Carolina. Aside from their natural appeal, these beautiful lakes are also surrounded by some of the state's best dining spots and breweries. There are also seven beaches located along the shores nestled between 17 miles of hiking trails. It's a completely remote North Carolina oasis. Just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem lies Salem Lake. The real treat is in the fall when the leaves around the lake turn into a collage of yellows, oranges, and reds. Julian Price Park - Milepost 297 The Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina are dubbed the Yosemite of the East, and for good reason. Located in the Nantahala National Forest swimming, boating, and skiing are all popular lake activities. Located among the majestic peaks of North Georgia's awe-inspiring mountain ranges lie a collection of stunning lakes. 2. The lake is 835-acres and offers 25-miles of shoreline. If you head to Price Lake in the winter, bring a pair of skates. Get more stories delivered right to your email. The National Forest Service has taken care of Lake Hiwassees shoreline to develop a natural experience ripe for water sports. Lexington is known for its barbeque, and Salisbury's Haps Grill is famous for its hot dogs. You may recognize the Blue Ridge mountains in the backdrop of this mountain lake from Dirty Dancing. Poplar Point, Vista Point, and Crosswinds campgrounds are best for those who want sandy beaches. Tucked at the base of Linville Gorge, Lake James boasts lush green pines and hemlocks that proliferate in this part of the state. You can also enjoy swimming at the Pines Recreation Area with free admission (no pets) and enjoy a picnic after. One or more species of sunfish populate virtually all warm water streams, ponds and lakes throughout North Carolina, and around the . Situated 30 miles west of downtown Raleigh, the lake has over 1,000 campsites that are suitable for tents or RVs. However, Fontana Lake doesn't look clean due to the aqua/green color of the water, but it is. Morgantown Point Recreations is recommended for launching boats as well as having a beach for families relax. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. The natural jewel of the piedmont region, Jordan Lake sits in the heart of the most developed area of North Carolina and offers a breath of fresh air from cities like Durham and Raleigh. Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In North Carolina. Also, make plans to go fly fishingthe sport is so popular that several neighborhood streets are named after lures. Watching the sunset over this lake is a locate pastime that visitors mustnt miss either. There are quite literally hundreds upon hundreds of waterfalls in the Tar Heel State, and many of them are tucked away and off-the-beaten path. 5.9 acres lot - Lot / Land for sale. With tons of inlets, coves, and islands created by ancient mountains tops poking through the calm surface waters, there is a ton to explore with your boat on this lake. It also boasts two yacht clubs for you to store your boat at. Bass Lake (1,470 acres near Blowing Rock NC) Often called a hidden diamond in the city, the lake covers 365 acres and is known for its reasonably priced boat and kayak rentals. The lake is wide open, without any problematic coves or sharp turns to manage. Burnett Reservoir Black Mountain Western North Carolina Mountains Cedar Cliff Reservoirs in Jackson County Western North Carolina Mountains Many always ask what the best North Carolina beaches are, but narrowing them down is hard. Mountain Events & Festivals Sign up for Highlander Newsletter Lakes in the North Carolina Mountains use the links below to discover the possibilities. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 20 min to complete. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At Shackleford Banks, you won't find beach houses, developmentswell, even electricity or running water. When the water is being released from the dam, the river is considered on and provides very good whitewater conditions. Private marinas are available to rent boats or you can bring your own and put it into the lake at one of the boat ramps. IN DOOR Waterfront Worship! Value 4.5. 9 Most Beautiful Lakes In North Carolina It's a magical place of mist-shrouded peaks, crystal-clear lakes and streams, enchanting waterfalls and breathtaking vistas. If you are lucky enough to gain access, the fishing on the lake is superb. incredible places to swim in North Carolina. No matter your preferred activity when youre by the lake, head to one you havent frequented before. 12 Best Lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains 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. Last, but certainly not least, our list of pristine swimming holes in North Carolina concludes with Silver Run Falls. The typical fauna in the area includes deer, herons, and foxes. 8 hours ago . A privately-owned marina is nearby and offers paddleboard, kayak, and fishing boat rentals. North Carolina's largest lake. The lake is surrounded by a community, and offers restaurants, boat tours, events and activities, and wildlife. Between lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and the ocean there are a lot of beautiful bodies of water from which to choose. The Crystal Coast section of North Carolina is home to turquoise surf and white sand. Yet, one area has the bluest water of allit might just take a little effort to get there. For inland fishing regulations, visit the Wildlife Resources Commission website or call 919-707-0220. Bear Lake Reserve is the premier vacation destination in western North Carolina. With the Blue Ridge Mountains to the West and the Islands and beaches on the east coast, the Old North State holds a breadth of opportunities for natural exploration. One fact that makes it unique is that it has a high elevation of 3,494 feet, making it the highest lake east of the Mississippi River. There are also many camping spots along the waters edge, so be sure to bring your tent along so you can watch the sunset over the stunning water! Home - North Carolina - 20 BEST Lakes In North Carolina to Visit. Near Brevard, this is one of the best lakes in the NC mountains. Blue Catfish, like Flathead Catfish, are native to the Mississippi River Basin. Nowadays, there are 516 properties surrounding the lake, and dues from the community go towards maintaining the site. Within minutes of Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, lies Lake Norman, North Carolina's largest artificial lake. At 50 miles northeast of Asheville, Lake James offers an extensive 150-mile shoreline and a view of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. The alpine lake sits at the foot of Grandfather mountain, deep in the Appalachian mountain region on the states western front. This tiny space is the highest lake east of the Mississippi at 3,492 ft. A day in the boat on Lake Glenville will allow travelers to marvel at three waterfalls that feed into the alpine lake, only reachable by boat. Recreational options include fishing, swimming, motor-boating, kayaking, paddle boating, parasailing, jet skiing and much more. If you enjoy fishing, you can spend your vacation trying to catch bluegill, tiger muskellunge, and threadfin shad. With either boat access points and plentiful fishing, this lake is an anglers dream. *Updated* New North Carolina State Record Blue Catfish An artificial power plant cooler, this northern North Carolina lake has over 65 campsites spread around its shores, a plethora of cabin rentals, and not much else. Our aim is to help you get the most out of your travel around the Carolinas. 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. Picnic areas and campgrounds abound at Lake James, but cottage rentals, hotels, and bed and breakfasts are also options. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and seven continents. There are two public boat access points and multiple communities that surround the lake and offer activities for visitors to indulge in. Within walking distance of the park is a slew of restaurants for every palette, including The Harp for lovers of fish and chips, Benny's Big Time Pizzeria, Mariposa for Spanish cuisine, and the newly opened Dram Tree Tavern where one can grab classic American food and a pint from one of the local brewing companies. Paddle boarders can visit Long Island Paddle Sports for rentals, and fishermen can throw their lines from Patriot Pier at Ramsey Creek Park. Does North Carolina have any hidden waterfalls? Trust me when I say that there are plenty of lakes in North Carolina to enjoy. If youre packing the smores, youll have your pick of over 1,000 campsites. Our state is filled with countless miles of sandy shorelines, and many of them are relatively secret. Blue Lake In North Carolina Is A Scuba Diver's Paradise Blue Ridge Georgia is a very popular resort and tourist area, and the nearby Blue Ridge Lake makes for a beautiful place to enjoy fishing, swimming and boating. Here are some common questions asked about Lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains: The clearest lake in NC is White Lake near Elizabethtown NC. North Carolina is blessed with abundant natural treasures, from the Pisgah National Forest to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visit These 7 Lakes in North Carolina on Your Next Trip - Skyscanner The lake is also surrounded by trails on both the Great Smoky Mountain side and the Nantahala National Forest side. Location 4.9. 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 Church | White Lake NC - Facebook While others qualify as the state's greatest natural lake, the remarkable 480-foot dam was constructed in the 1940s to generate power during WWII. If you wake up early on Lake Hickory, the water usually is calm enough to look like glass. 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. 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. The lake isn't in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is closer to the NC Coast. TripAdvisor / Explorcation This unique waterfall involves a short but worth-your-effort three-mile hike. Helpful Tips for visiting the Best Lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Best Lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains FAQ. The Lake Junaluska community is Christian based, and has a beautiful and historic chapel, and a cross at Inspiration point that lights up at night over the lake. Children of all ages will get a one-of-a-kind experience heading to this boggy slice of North Carolina. One of the greatest lakes in North Carolina, Lake Mattamuskeet, is the largest natural lake in the state, but the depth of this body of water rarely gets deeper than three feet. Have you visited any of these incredible places to swim in North Carolina? 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. Constructed in 1937 to drain the lake, it transformed into a hunting lodge and sits abandoned but preserved. There are also plenty of water-centric activities to fill your time, such as canoeing, fishing, golfing, and hiking. 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. There are different locations around the lake that allow swimming as well as fishing. Aside from beaches and hiking spots alone, North Carolina has almost 60 lakes, 22 of which were naturally formed. There is also an amphitheater on site that hosts live performances by the lake. Often called the "Best Kept Secret in the Mountains", Lake Fontana is 29-miles long, and covers 11,700 acres. Cabins, hotels, and campgrounds scatter the lakeshore that is best enjoyed during a North Carolina fall. W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir is a gorgeous 1,475-acre body of water filled with opportunities to commune with nature. 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. They have been introduced to many river basins that flow to the Atlantic Ocean, such as the Cape Fear and Catawba rivers in North Carolina. Thirteen miles of hiking trails grant visitors up-close looks at bald eagle species. You can get away from it all at Hyco Lake near Semora, one of the best small towns in North Carolina. The fresh, clean mountain water is only the cherry on top. Price Lake Dam failure investigated on Blue Ridge Parkway | Charlotte Various companies in the area provide Lake tours and provide boat rentals. These 10 Swimming Holes In North Carolina Will Take Your Summer To Another Level, 12 Waterfall Swimming Holes In North Carolina That Are Ideal For A Summer Day, If You Didnt Know About These 12 Swimming Holes In North Carolina, Theyre A Must Visit, 13 North Carolina Swimming Holes To Take A Dip In This Summer, The Most Remote Lake In North Carolina Is Also The Most Peaceful, The Friendly Small Town In North Carolina Thats Perfect For A Summer Day Trip, Have Breakfast At A Lovely Inn Then Take A Fly-Fishing Tour On This Delightful Small-Town Adventure In North Carolina, Masonboro Island Reserve Is A Beachfront Attraction In North Carolina Youll Want To Visit Over And Over Again. The Best Kayaking Lake In North Carolina Is One You Probably Don't Know 3. Rent a boat or jet ski for the day, take a guided fishing tour, or board the Catawba Queen or Lady of the Lake for a dinner cruise. In addition, there are several restaurants on the water, so you can choose to dine out or stay in your rental and use the kitchen to create a tasty meal. Lake Lure is a great stop on a more extensive trip, and enough is going on in the water here for the lake to be your weekend headquarters. Heres more on what you can look forward to when visiting the place with the bluest water in North Carolina. Hyco Lake Close to: Roxboro, NC Hyco Lake is north of Roxboro, NC, almost to the Virginia border. If we had to pick just one, it would be Lake Fontana. Lake James State Park, photo courtesy NC.gov 9. North Carolina has a wide range of geological and cultural environments. Do you agree that weve listed some of the pristine swimming holes in North Carolina? Here some of the best lakes waiting for you in The Tar Heel State. Just a quick drive north of Charlotte, this is a great spot to spend a day or weekend if you are visiting! Other options include traversing the 14 miles of biking trails or wandering part of the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, which runs through the park. In fact, you'll find several places in the Tar Heel State whose waters rival the Caribbean in terms of both beauty and clarity. Become a Fan. So pack your swimsuit and towel and prepare to be amazed by these unique places to swim in North Carolina. If you want a lovely stretch of cool water to spend a day on, the lake is low-key and has plenty of marinas on the waters edge to get your fill of fun in the sun. Its no secret that lakes have a certain allure, and for many, they hold a lifetime of memories. This section of our guide to the best lakes in the North Carolina Mountains showcases each NC mountain lake's unique characteristics, recreational opportunities, and landscapes. High Rock Lake is the second largest lake in North Carolina at 15,180 acres and 365 miles of shoreline. Youll always be able to find bass, catfish, and crappie in the waters here, as well as plenty of places to rent paddleboards and kayaks. Use the lake for swimming, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. The reservoir has been powering the Piedmont region since the 1960s when Duke Energy constructed the Cowans Ford Dam. 20 Best Lakes in North Carolina (Mountains, Coast & Beyond) 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. Still, nothing beats the awesome power of seeing the red sun on the horizon, casting a cobalt hue onto waters surrounded by hardwood and pines. Larry Deane is co-owner of Blue Ridge Mountain Life. There are also a number of private campgrounds along the water for you to pitch and tent in between fishing trips out on the lake! Outdoorswomen looking for a lake that allows them to explore old-growth forests and surround themselves in nature deeply will feel at home here. You've come to the right place! Between May and September, nature lovers can camp on the sands of Paddy's Creek and dip into the cool water. In 2020, we decided to share more about our home in the Carolinas. There are a number of locations to rent boats, including pontoon boats on and around the lake. Some of the surrounding facilities offer paddle board, kayaks and pontoon boat rentals. One of the perks of visiting Wrightsville Beach is that it's also one of the most accessible beaches in North Carolina. 7380 Blue Water Court, Belews Creek, NC. Located at the base of North Carolina's Grand Canyon, Skinny Dip Falls Trailhead, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Canton, NC 28716, USA, Between crystal clear water, white sand, and tropical cypress trees, it's no surprise. Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below! The lake and surrounding areas provide: camping, cabins and recreational activities like boating, fishing, swimming and kayaking. Visitors can fish from the pier for a minimal fee, and bait is available nearby. When visiting, you can enjoy recreational activities such as tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and swimming. Lake Lure, NC | Restaurants, Places To Stay & Things To Do 25+ Great Lakes in North Carolina (+ Our Best 5) - NC Tripping Around the 14,000-acre reservoir are over 1,000 sites where visitors can park RVs, campers, and other vehicles and enjoy paddling, picnicking, and hiking as the cobalt currents lap around them. Status: Active. 25 BEST North Carolina Beaches To Visit (2023), 16 BEST Winston Salem Restaurants to Try (2023). At a clear blue 720 acres, Lake Lure lives up to its name by drawing visitors to the lush forest scape of Western North Carolina. Be sure to tour the beautiful gardens as well. A 7-mile walking trail surrounds the lake and offers scenic views of the water from every vantage point. {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, Blue Ridge Mountains Discover the Beauty, Wheelchair/Disabled Accessible Waterfalls, 12 Best Lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. High Rock Lake was formed in 1929 and named after the nearby High Rock Mountain. Blue Catfish Thank you! What are North Carolina's hidden beaches? Researched and written by our staff writer who enjoys contributing about their state for our site. If youre craving more swimming holes check out these 12! This geography has made it a favorite for local water sports enthusiasts. Another point to note is that fishing is catch and release, and only non-fuel-powered boats are permitted. Ziplining, horseback riding, fishing, trails, beaches, and even a toy museum! You'll never witness clearer water in North Carolina than you will here. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). BLUE WATERS MOUNTAIN LODGE - Prices & B&B Reviews - Tripadvisor You will receive your first newsletter soon. All campsites are primitive, hike in locations. You can also enjoy the flowering bridge just a short walk or drive from the lake. Rent a pontoon and prepare to spend the day picnicking, sunning, and diving from the vessel. Hyco Lake doesnt support much traffic. The Blue Ridge Mountains are full of beautiful and scenic mountain ranges, hiking trails and waterfalls. As the second largest lake in North Carolina, High Rock Lake encompasses 15,180 acres and boasts 365 miles of shoreline. Scattered across the edges of the lakes are other craters that never filled in with water instead of taking an ovular shape filled with sand. In the summertime, folks flock to these areas to cool off, spend time with loved ones, or experience the thrill of wakeboarding and skiing. Lake Blue Ridge GA has nearly crystal clear water, and has dedicated swimming areas. A lifeguard watches over protected swimming areas, and plenty of drive-in camping options have come together to ensure there are always others to play with at Lake James. Its proximity to urban centers has made the lake a hotbed of options. This Virginia lake covers 2,900 acres and has over 100 miles of natural shoreline. Lori Hall with a dandy sunfish caught from a local pond in Durham County, North Carolina. It was used as a stand in for Lake George in New York state for the film The Last of the Mohicans starring Daniel Day-Lewis. Swim across the border in Lake Wylie, 325 miles of shoreline that spans between North and South Carolina not far from Rock Hill. Lake Normans size and central location have made it a local favorite, and now its known as one of the best lakes in North Carolina. Rivers are an ideal environment for growing big catfish. The Nantahala River just below the river is known for its spectacular whitewater rafting and kayaking. The lake is not only known for fishing and boating, but known for swimming as well. Watersport enthusiasts will love the slalom course set up in the middle of the lake, as well as plenty of acres to tube across. Built to give Greensboro hydroelectric power, Belews lake isnt trying to be anything fancy. This manufactured North Carolina lake is for recreation. It's hard to imagine North Carolina without its population of beautiful lakes. Local vineyards rely on the waters of the second largest lake in the state to harvest sweet muscadine grapes, and local anglers flock to the waters edge for various fresh catches. The Blue Ridge contains the highest mountains in eastern . Which one is perfect or your mountain lake vacation? Now, it's a scuba diver's dream spot that's located in the small town of Thomasville. The surrounding Jordan Lake State Recreation Area has seven water access points where visitors can swim, boat, and enjoy views of the waterway.

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