Helene Recovery: McDowell County Travel and Safety Updates

Back to Kayak & Watersports

Lake James State Park

At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline. Scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains with two state parks wooded acres for picnicking, swimming, canoeing, camping and hiking.  Put in your boat at Black Bear Boat Access Area, Linville Access Area, or Hidden Cove Access Area.

Lake James State Park - Catawba Section includes 565 acres with hiking trails, primitive camp sides and picnic areas.  Just down the road, you'll find the larger, Paddy's Creek Section with more than 3,000 acres, a swimming beach, canoe rentals additional picnic space including two, covered picnic shelters with 12 tables each and additional hiking trails and off-road bicycle trails.  Fees do apply for picnic shelter and canoe and kayak rentals in addition to a fee to use the swimming beach.  

For reservations, contact Reserve America, 877-722-6762 or visit https://www.ncparks.gov

Lake James Jet Ski.jpg