Lake Norman State Park (near Charlotte, NC)

Lake Norman State Park sits right outside Charlotte, NC near Mooresville.

The park is relatively new, since it is on Lake Norman which is a manmade lake and the largest manmade lake in the state of NC. Duke Power put in a dam between 1959 and 1964 to create more power and created this large lake. They also set aside land for the general public (about 1000 acres), and that is how this park came about.

As you drive down I77 between Statesville and Charlotte, you'll see the lake. Take exit 42 (Harmony) and follow the signs to the park.

The big drawing cards for the lake park are lake swimming and fishing.

The lakefront area is sanded like an ocean beach. They have a bathhouse to change and shower. Visitors can swim from June through Labor Day. Lake temperatures are generally warm especially near the top of the water. The view is terrific. You can see boats out farther in the lake as you swim.

As far as fishing, Lake Norman is considered to be one of the best fishing areas in the state. Brim, crappie, and bass are the main fish in the lake. There are some catfish too. You need a license in NC. You can get a license at most any community store and even at Wal-Mart. Kids under 16 years don't need a license, but an adult with a license needs to be along to cover the younger kids.

In addition to the swimming and fishing, the park has picnic areas, walking trails, and camping.

There are two picnic areas. One is right at the swimming area, so you'll probably want to bring a cooler with food if you decide to swim. The other area is in the camping section. That area is more spread out with trees in between trees. Nice and shady.

A large picnic shelter with grills is available. It will hold up to 125 people, so it's good for group outings. You'll probably want to reserve the shelter if you're visiting with a group.

Six miles of hiking trails run along the lake and through the woods. You'll see lots of trees and usually some small animals. Hiking is pretty easy. This is the foothill area, so you don't have the slopes of the mountain areas of NC.

If you want to stay longer and relax in the outdoors, the park has camping. There are 33 spaces. All are for tent or trailer camping really. No RV hook ups or electricity etc. They do have water available in several spots and a nice bathhouse.

If you have your own boat, then you'll need to look for one of the marinas to put in. They had been renting small boats to visitors, but boat rentals and the concession stand are closed right now due to budget cuts in the state (2009).

Duke Power State Park is a nice little area off I77. If you live in the Charlotte or surrounding areas or if you're traveling on I77, then this would be a great place to check out especially during the summer.