Posted in North Carolina April 13, 2017 by Emory Rakestraw

This Might Just Be The Most Beautiful Campground In All Of North Carolina

With spring in full force, one great way to put yourself in the middle of the changing seasons is a weekend camping trip. While ‘glamping’ proves an option for the camper who wants a bit of the finer things, true camping involves really getting out in nature and taking it all in. Pitching a tent, a night under the stars, cooking your food by fire and launching your boat or kayak right from your tent site – it’s all possible at Lake James State Park in Nebo.

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Located in both Burke and McDowell Counties, Lake James State Park is situated near the Catawba River, Linville Gorge, and rests right at the beautiful 6,812-acre Lake James.

Crystal clear waters and an accessible beach make Lake James a beloved spring and summer destination for rugged mountain camping, boating, kayaking, and even taking a cool dip. One draw for getting away from it all is the boat-in campground located on Long Arm Peninsula.

Other campsites include three campgrounds on the Catawba River area, and 33 drive-to family friendly and group campsites along Paddy's Creek Area.

The park features 25 miles of trails, with 15 of those accessible for mountain bikers. The trails vary for each kind of hiker, from the kid-friendly and interactive Holly Discovery Trail to the rugged and historic Overmountain Victory Trail.

The beautiful Lake James is a true attraction and perfect for setting up a campsite. Located at the rolling base of Linville Gorge, the reservoir features 150-miles of pristine shoreline.

There's also a 700-foot swim beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or even just a remote picnic in beautiful scenery.

Not far from Lake James there's a variety of things to see and do, like the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' Linville Gorge. Even from Lake James you can take in impressive Gorge views including a stunning view of Shortoff Mountain.

From a night to a weekend away, Lake James State Park offers a few days of not only peace and quiet, but plenty of adventure. You'll find everything from a crystal clear shoreline to excellent hiking high up in the mountains.

What a beautiful sunny day or weekend escape. I know I’ll be planning a trip here soon! Have you visited Lake James before?

For a full itinerary on what to do while you’re in the area, check out these amazing hikes along Linville Gorge and read about why the Gorge was named ‘Grand Canyon of the East.’