These 20 Gorgeous Lakes In North Carolina Are Demanding Your Attention This Summer
North Carolina has a lot going for it. The beach, the mountains, the seasons, but we can’t forget one special feature of our state…all of the gorgeous lakes! Wherever you are in the state, there is a lake nearby, awaiting some fun, freshwater adventure. Here is a list of 20 to explore this spring!
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Outside of Charlotte, spanning from Mooresville to Davidson, this green paradise awaits. As the largest body of freshwater in NC, you'll have enough to explore on a boat or jet ski.
West of Raleigh and south of Durham, Jordan Lake is a beautiful, centrally-located lake perfect for some frame worthy photos.
Janie Matthews
Nestled in the high country of Western, NC, Lake James is a freshwater getaway. Lake James receives its name from Duke benefactor and tobacco tycoon James Buchanan Duke.
Outside of Salisbury, High Rock Lake serves as a resevoir for hydorelectric power generation. Meaning, it's also great for some canoe adventures.
The best part about Belews 'creek' is that it is always warm! Belews is a main hydro source for Duke Energy. Belews Lake spans from Rockingham to Forsyth County.
Small but beautiful, Badin Lake is a secret getaway in the Uwharrie Lakes Region.
This quiet resevoir is located between Badin Lake and Blewett Falls Lake. The Uwharrie Mountains make for great views as you sail on the gentle waters.
Another lake that swirls and dives beneath pine-covered mountains, Nantahala is a great getaway in Macon County.
Just off the coast, Lake Mattamuskeet is the largest natural lake in NC.
As the largest lake in Person County, Hyco Lake is a popular destination for jet skiing, wake boarding, and fishing.
You'll want to visit this chilly mountain reservoir during the warmer months. But, located 8-miles from Cashier, it also makes for some beautiful winter pictures.
No Dirty Dancing here, at least not anymore, just serene mountain views in Rutherford County.
Back to the Eastern side of the state, Lake Phelps is the second largest natural lake in NC. Located in Washington, this salty-lake leaves plenty to explore with a great coastal vibe.
With its central location in the state, between Guilford and Randolph County, Lake Randleman is an extremely popular fishing spot.
Small, and privately owned, Lake Tahoma is still available for pictures (apparently) or you could always make friends with the owners.
As a popular destination for Methodist retreats, Lake Junaluska adds a picturesque feel to the already gorgeous town of Waynesville.
Theres no shortage of fish to catch in this freshwater lake at the center of Great Dismal Swamp (spoooky).
Located between SC and NC, Lake Wylie is a perfect getaway for the South-Charlottean.
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This small, and fairly undiscovered lake is located outside of Charlotte. A day at Latta Plantation is fun for the whole family. Latta Park has gorgeous, quiet, and challenging hiking trails with lakeside views. Water-recreation is popular here, including stand-up paddle board yoga...gnarly!
Located in Raleigh, Lake Lynn is a popular destination for power-walking with a view!
Time to start planning! What are your favorite lakes in NC?
