Lake with small bridge

Lake Hickory Vacation Rentals

Lake Hickory, North Carolina, United States
35.7332° N, -81.315° W
Lake Hickory
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Lake Hickory, a sprawling 4,000-acre expanse in North Carolina, offers a kaleidoscope of adventures for the intrepid traveler. With its 100 miles of shoreline, this lake is a paradise for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters, or opt for a leisurely pontoon boat ride. For a taste of luxury, enjoy dinner at Lake Hickory Pub and Marina, where mini golf and ice cream await.

Just a short distance from the lake, the Hickory Aviation Museum stands as a testament to aviation history, with its captivating exhibits and vintage aircraft. Nearby, the Hickory Crawdads at L.P. Frans Stadium offer an exciting baseball experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, Bakers Mountain Park beckons with its six miles of hiking trails and an observation tower offering panoramic vistas.

The Hickory Riverwalk, an elevated trail winding through tall trees and waterways, connects to other trails and provides easy access to Lake Hickory, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and wellness enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for action-packed days or family-friendly activities, Lake Hickory and its surrounding attractions promise an unforgettable experience.

Surface area (mi)
10.62
Max depth (ft)
120
Elevation (ft)
935.04
Shoreline length (mi)
109.3
Best time to go
Late spring, from mid-April to June, unveils Lake Hickory’s lush landscapes kissed by sunlight. This serene season invites water sports enthusiasts to glide over glassy waters while shaded shores offer respite. Enjoy the Carefree Boat & Lake Festival in May, where the lake sparkles with vibrant festivities, fewer tourists, and an ambiance of lazy relaxation, making it the ultimate seasonal escape.
Water Quality
Lake Hickory's water is deep blue with crystal-clear clarity, allowing objects to be seen at depths of eight to ten feet. The lake's sandy bottom contributes to its clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and other water sports.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Cross-country Skiing
  • Swimming
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Marinas on Lake Hickory

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Hickory has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, you can swim in Lake Hickory. Swimming areas include the beach at Lake Hickory Park, Ritter Park Beach, Long Island Beach, and the new swim beach at Wittenburg Access. These areas are designated for swimming and offer various amenities like picnic areas and restrooms.

  • Lake Hickory is a popular destination because it offers 4,000 acres of lake area and 100 miles of shoreline. This makes it ideal for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Additionally, it connects to the Catawba River Greenway and the Riverwalk, providing more outdoor recreation opportunities.

  • For largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass in Lake Hickory, North Carolina, there is a 14-inch minimum size limit, with no bass between 14–22 inches allowed, and only one bass greater than 22 inches can be kept. The daily bag limit is 5 bass in combination. These regulations apply to most public waters in the state.

  • The Beach at Lake Hickory Park is best for families. It has a large sandy beach, a roped-off swimming area, picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground. This setup makes it an excellent spot for a full day of outdoor activities with young children.

  • Towns near Lake Hickory include Hickory, Newton, Lenoir, and Conover. These towns are located in the surrounding counties and offer various amenities and activities. Hickory is the largest town and provides cultural and entertainment opportunities.