If your dream vacation is to mix outdoor adventure with peaceful relaxation in a pristine setting, Lake James State Park in Nebo, North Carolina, is the destination for you. When you spend a day at Lake James State Park boating, paddling, picnicking, hiking, biking, camping, and dining are all at your fingertips!
The lake is 6,510 acres with 150 miles of shoreline. It was created in the early 1900s when James B. Duke built a reservoir near the Fonta Flora community. Powering the Piedmont Region, Duke Power built damns at the Catawba River, Linville River, and Paddy Creek. Lake James State Park was founded in 1987 and is now celebrated as a premier recreational location.
1) Boating
The park is divided into 2 main sections, Catawba River Access and Paddy’s Creek Access. Both areas offer some outstanding opportunities for water activities, and boating is a favorite. The Canal Bridge boat ramp and the Hidden Cove boat launch are both accessible. Boat rentals, water sports, and jet skis are available through Lake James Boat Rentals and Noah’s Landing.
2) Paddling
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are three of the most adventurous ways to explore Lake James. Paddlers can go where larger boats cannot, visiting all of the coves and inlets of the numerous small islands dotting the lake. This makes for a very serene and peaceful experience on the water and a rare opportunity for bird watching.
3) Sunset Cruises
Treat your entire family to a houseboat cruise at sunset. You’ll have a captain, so you can relax with the crew and watch the sun go down from the top deck. Reserving your Lake James Sunset Cruise guarantees sweet memories and wildlife sightings, which could include eagles, osprey, herons, otters, and the occasional bear. Appetizers are provided, and you can bring your goodies, as well. Swimming is also an option, just bring a towel!
4) Picnicking
The Catawba River Shelter and Catawba River Picnic Area are spots to set out the grub and enjoy a picnic. And there’s always an opportunity to picnic while hiking. Just remember to leave the area as (or better than!) you found it.
5) Hiking
Lake James Park has some of the best hiking in the region. There is a 26.5-mile trail system with all levels of difficulty.
Hiking on the Paddy’s Creek side includes 22 of the total miles. If you are looking for a short, easy hike, try the 0.7-mile Homestead Trail or the 0.75-mile Holly Discovery Trail. Both are suitable for a family hike.
The Overmountain Victory Trail is a good option for those seeking a longer hike. The entire trail runs for 330 miles across 4 states, but the section that passes through Lake James only covers about 2 miles, and it’s not strenuous.
The Catawba River area only has 4.5 miles of trail, but they are some of the most stunning hikes you’ll find. For a longer trek, you’ll want to take the 2.25-mile Fox Den Loop. The Fishing Pier is a short, 0.3-mile hike if you want to do some hiking and still take advantage of the rest of the other activities.
Please reference the Lake James State Park website for up-to-date information on trail closures.
6) Biking
The Paddy’s Creek Area boasts 14 miles of biking trails, and most of them are open. Different segments of the loop trail range in distance. Both the Upper Tindo Loop and Lower Tindo Loop are exciting 1.4 miles of easy trail. The trails see a high number of hikers and bikers, and are a fantastic way to experience the wildlife around you.
The Wimba Loops offer more variety, with the West Wimba Loop covering 6 miles of more rugged terrain and the South Wimba Trail coming in at an easy 1.4-mile ride.
The crown jewel is the Fonta Flora State Trail. The trail features a loop around Lake James and continues through the Fonta Flora County Park in Burke County. The trail has a natural surface and offers gentle grades and spectacular views of Lake James.
The Fonta Flora name is a tribute to a local settlement of African American sharecroppers who were flooded out of their homes when the Catawba River was dammed. The trail’s iconic symbol is an orange feather inspired by the bald eagle, our national bird. It’s open year-round.
Of course, all of these biking trails also welcome hikers!
7) Camping
You have many options for camping at Lake James State Park. There are 33 drive-in camp sites near the beach. They are all outfitted with a fire pit, picnic table, and space for a tent. They offer access to potable water and a washhouse with toilets and hot showers. Each allows for 2 vehicles.
There are 20 walk-in sites, which also come with a fire pit, picnic table, room for a tent, and a washhouse. The walk-in campsites offer a fantastic view of the Catawba River shoreline.
For those looking for a unique experience, Lake James State Park also has 30 paddle-in campsites on Long Arm Peninsula about a mile away from the beach. You’ll find a fire pit, picnic table, and tent pad at each one.
For the most up-to-date information on camping availability per area within the park, check that status here.
You can also find camping at Lake James at Bear Creek Campground and Paddy’s Creek Campground.
8. Dining and Entertainment
Bear Creek Marina in the quaint town of Nebo is a wonderful respite from campfire cooking. Order the Fried Catfish Basket or a Buffalo Chicken Pizza at the water’s edge. There is live music regularly and plenty of Karaoke Nights!
Another fun option for local brews is Whippoorwill Farm, Fonta Flora’s Nebo brewery location, serving an extensive tap list with delicious brews. And your pets are welcome, too!
Summertime is a terrific season to spend time at Lake James. Get ready for spectacular displays of native wildflowers in full bloom, and keep your eyes open for deer, foxes, rabbits, flying squirrels, and minks.
