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Lake James, a sprawling 6,510-acre reservoir in Western North Carolina, offers an idyllic blend of adventure and tranquility. Straddling the border between Burke and McDowell Counties, this lake is a testament to the region’s natural beauty, with 150 miles of shoreline and a backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For adventure seekers, Lake James State Park provides endless opportunities: hike or bike through the Fonta Flora State Trail, which loops around the lake and connects to the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail. Water enthusiasts can engage in boating, paddling, kayaking, or paddleboarding, exploring the lake’s numerous coves and inlets. Fishing and camping are also popular activities, with designated areas for both.
Wellness seekers will appreciate the serene paddling experience, ideal for bird watching and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Families can enjoy motor boats, houseboats, and even water-slide boats, while jet skis cater to thrill-seekers.
Nearby, the Pisgah National Forest beckons with its stunning vistas, just a 25-minute drive from Lake James Camping Resort. The area is also steeped in history, having been a filming site for movies like The Last of the Mohicans and The Hunt for Red October. With its diverse array of activities and picturesque surroundings, Lake James is an ultimate destination for those seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
- Surface area (mi)
- 17.15
- Max depth (ft)
- 120
- Elevation (ft)
- 1200.79
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 150
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake James has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, you can swim at Lake James. The designated swimming area is located in the Paddy’s Creek Area of the park and is open from May 1 through September 30 with lifeguards on duty. A small per-person fee applies.
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Lake James is a popular destination because of its extensive recreational opportunities. It offers hiking, biking, boating, paddling, and fishing in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with 6,510 acres of lake and 150 miles of shoreline. The lake also features several public and commercial boat access locations and various state park facilities.
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For bass fishing in Lake James, North Carolina, the size limit is a 15-inch minimum, and the bag limit is 8 bass per day. No largemouth, smallmouth, or spotted bass between 14 and 22 inches may be possessed, and only one bass greater than 22 inches is allowed. A fishing license is required.
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Yes, there are lifeguards on the beaches at Lake James. Lifeguards are on duty most days from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend in the Paddy’s Creek Area. A small per-person fee is charged when lifeguards are present.
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Lake James is near the towns of Marion, Nebo, and Morganton. These towns are located in the vicinity of the lake, with Marion being about 23 minutes away, Nebo sitting along the lake’s shores, and Morganton about 30 minutes away. Other nearby towns include Black Mountain, Old Fort, and Hickory.
