Lake Norman
Fee required
Water
Parking available
North Carolina's largest manmade lake, known for recreation and a rumored 'Nessie-like' monster.

šŸ“œ North Carolina's largest manmade lake, created between 1959-1964 by Duke Energy and formed by the Cowans Ford Dam.
šŸ” Known for its alleged monster, "Normie," with over 70 reported sightings.

Why Go

🌊 Popular destination for recreation with 520 miles of coastline, offering hiking, biking, paddling, swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
šŸŽ£ Enjoy quiet fishing and paddling on Park Lake.
🚓 Explore nearly 31 miles of mountain biking trails.
šŸ‘» Keep an eye out for 'Normie,' the legendary lake monster.
šŸžļø Scenic coastline with diverse aquatic species.

Why Avoid

āš ļø Concerns about coal ash contamination from power plants.
šŸŒ§ļø Mountain bike trails may close due to weather.

Tips

šŸ…æļø 24-hour access to campground and boat launch via St. Johns Road.
šŸ• Pets allowed on leash in park and campsites, but not on swim beach, inside buildings, or cabins.

Cost

šŸ’° Day use is free; fees apply for boat rentals, swim passes, camping, and facility reservations.

Hours

šŸ•’ Day-use hours vary seasonally: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec), 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Mar, Apr, Sep, Oct), 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (May-Aug). Closed Christmas Day.
šŸ›¶ Boat rentals: Daily 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $10/HR. Closed Nov 1 - Apr 1. First-come, first-served.
šŸ—“ļø Visitor Center: Open Friday to Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (seasonal hours from Nov 1).

Getting There

šŸ…æļø Parking: Available at Lake Norman State Park.
🚻 Toilets: Bathhouse available at Lake Norman State Park.
šŸ•ļø Camping: Camper cabins, tent sites, trailer and RV sites available.

Last updated 1 day ago

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