Top Lakes and Rivers to Explore in North Carolina

North Carolina | Credit: Will Breen

Visitors flock to North Carolina’s many lakes and rivers to take in their scenic settings and enjoy activities on the water. Let’s look at some of the top lakes and rivers in North Carolina that are ideal destinations for outdoor fun. 

Lake Glenville

Lake Glenville, located in the North Carolina Mountains, is a scenic reservoir that stretches for more than 1,460 acres. Visitors like to relax on its public beaches, fish, or boat on the water. Also, hiking along the lake to marvel at one of its several waterfalls is a popular pastime. 

Fontana Lake

Uniquely possessing an emerald-green color, Fontana Lake is a gorgeous lake based along the southern edges of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is surrounded by scenic wilderness with great hiking trails for visitors. Hosting muskie, bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and many other species of fish, Fontana Lake is a favorite for anglers.

Lake Norman

Situated just 20 miles outside of Charlotte, Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. It is a popular day-trip spot for fishing, boating, and unwinding on its sandy shores. 

Lake Norman | Credit: Josh Duncan

Bass Lake

Modestly sized at 54 acres, Bass Lake in Bass Lake Park lacks the crowds common at other larger lakes. Although the lake does not allow personal watercraft, it is a popular destination for anglers who appreciate the lack of noise and the abundant aquatic life beneath the water’s surface.

Jordan Lake

Jordan Lake is an expansive 14,000-acre reservoir surrounded by forests and beaches. Visitors will appreciate the many boating ramps that make getting on the lake effortless. Also, with more than 1,000 campsites, overnight stays are common.

Jordan Lake | Credit: Lawrence Melosantos

High Rock Lake

High Rock Lake in central North Carolina is a quiet and serene place to be immersed in natural beauty. The expansive lake is surrounded by forest and has marinas, campgrounds, and a designated swim area with a sandy beach and a boat launch.

French Broad River

The French Broad River runs 213 miles through North Carolina and Tennessee. This large river is one of the oldest in the world, dating back hundreds of millions of years, and it uniquely flows north into Tennessee rather than south. Guided boat trips along the river are available, ranging from canoeing to whitewater rafting, and self-guided tubing trips are an especially popular way to enjoy the French Broad. 

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