📜 North Carolina's largest manmade lake, created between 1959-1964 by Duke Energy and formed by the Cowans Ford Dam. 🔍 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. 🎣 Enjoy quiet fishing and paddling on Park Lake. 🚴 Explore nearly 31 miles of mountain biking trails. 👻 Keep an eye out for 'Normie,' the legendary lake monster. 🏞️ Scenic coastline with diverse aquatic species. # Why Avoid ⚠️ Concerns about coal ash contamination from power plants. 🌧️ Mountain bike trails may close due to weather. # Tips 🅿️ 24-hour access to campground and boat launch via St. Johns Road. 🐕 Pets allowed on leash in park and campsites, but not on swim beach, inside buildings, or cabins. # Cost 💰 Day use is free; fees apply for boat rentals, swim passes, camping, and facility reservations. # Hours 🕒 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. 🛶 Boat rentals: Daily 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $10/HR. Closed Nov 1 - Apr 1. First-come, first-served. 🗓️ Visitor Center: Open Friday to Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (seasonal hours from Nov 1). # Getting There 🅿️ Parking: Available at Lake Norman State Park. 🚻 Toilets: Bathhouse available at Lake Norman State Park. 🏕️ Camping: Camper cabins, tent sites, trailer and RV sites available.