Charlotte is a city blessed with both natural and man-made lakes. The lakes aren’t only attractive but also conveniently located in areas around beautiful mountains, forests, rivers, and meadows. The water is relatively clear and calm, and they are in such a condition that they attract a variety of fun activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and snorkeling.
There are several amazing lakes near Charlotte, and with this list, you can find out eight of the best among them.
Not too many cities have an abundance of lakes for a great summertime. And for the ones that do have, not all are pristine enough to get into. When next you’re in town, you can get soaked in one of these fascinating lakes near Charlotte:
1. Badin Lake
The Badin Lake is an ideal recreational spot located next to the charming National Forest. The lake offers the perfect blend of nature, fun, and water activities. The best time to go down there is during summer.
During summer, you’ll enjoy a great time fishing, swimming, and cruising around with various vessels available for rent on site.
Why we like it: Another way you can enjoy this lake is by camping in the close by Uwharrie State Park. That’s if you love hiking or want to enjoy nature’s tranquility.
2. Lake Norman
This is the largest man-made lake near Charlotte. It is one of the gorgeous lakes near Charlotte you’ll want to visit. A short drive from Uptown Charlotte will get you to this beauty blessed with a mild climate. Lake Norman is one of the hottest tourist destinations in town – all year round.
The lake houses a wide range of wildlife and aquatics, making it a fantastic location for nature lovers to explore. One trip to the lake is a guarantee of fantastic views of various types of fish, such as the blue catfish, crappie, bluegill, and sauger, among a ton of others.
Why we like it: When you’re around the lake, expect to see beautiful turtles, water snakes, frogs, most of which aren’t harmful.
3. Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake is perfectly situated south and west of Durham and Raleigh, respectively. This is a huge reservoir covering an area of 13,940 acres and offers tons of exhilarating activities. You’ll find more than 1,000 campsites along Jordan Lake, including primitive tent camping and full RV hookups. Also, there are about seven beaches along the shores, just 17 miles of hiking trails.
A wide variety of harmless wildlife is also abundant along the water as the lake’s ecosystem has grown diverse over the years.
Why we like it: Unlike most lakes near Charlotte, there’s a visitor center exhibit hall to learn more about the wildlife and the lake’s ecosystem.
4. Lake Wylie
Lake Wylie is another beautiful man-made lake near Charlotte, just 22.4 km from the city. Lake Wylie is stunning, and it offers the perfect spot to escape from the city’s noise to bond with nature.
One of the best ways to explore the lake is through its exciting boat charters, a few miles from numerous cabins for rent. Enjoy your trip while tubing, fishing, and sunset dinners aboard stunning cruise ships.
Why we like it: Lake Wylie is also one of those lakes with shallow coves for more exciting water games.
5. High Rock Lake
This lake was first a hydroelectric power project from as far back as the late 1920s. However, over the years, the entire area has transformed into a huge recreational site and tourist destination in Charlotte. The lake was named after its neighbor – High Rock Mountain – a spectacular beauty consisting of thick canopies, fantastic cliffs, and lush vegetation. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife.
High Rock Lake offers unique boating experiences for anyone willing to explore the impressive waters with a bass boat, powerboat, jet ski, canoe, or kayak.
Why we like it: If you don’t have the necessary equipment or a vessel, you don’t have to worry since there are several rentals available.
6. Belews Lake
Belews Lake is an awesome recreational spot located below the legendary Blue Ridge. There’s no lack in the number of activities you can enjoy at the lake. You can go fishing, swimming, boating, or exploring the gorgeous parks, forests, and hiking trails around the lake.
A marvel to watch out for when next you visit Belews Lake is the early-morning spectacle when steam from the nearby power plant creates a picturesque cover above the water surface. If you love underwater exploration, this lake is one of your best destinations among the lakes near Charlotte.
Why we like it: The water is clear and great for scuba diving.
7. Lake Lure
You can expect a lake named Lure to be ultimately attractive and stunning! It’s a popular tourist destination and famous for the great beauty it truly is. The lake draws its allure from its pristine beaches, parks, and world-class museums.
One of the best sightseeing spots there is Chimney Rock Park, situated on Broad River. Chimney Rock Park has an antique monolith, which is favored among hikers who dare to reach these heights for bird’s-eye views of Lake Lure, Hickory Nut Gorge, and the amazing countryside of Charlotte.
Why we like it: You’ll enjoy the star-watching sites and sunbathing.
8. James Lake
James Lake is an astonishing gem resting between the Pisgah National Forest and a brief distance from the camping and hiking sites of Linville Gorge Wilderness. Access to this lake is free, but paddling, swimming, and boating require a little fee.
You’re also allowed to fish here only if you’re licensed. The most common fish you’ll find in the lake is the largemouth bass.
Why we like it: James Lake is calm and clean and features awesome hiking trails that navigate stunning mountains and meadows worth exploring by bikers, hikers, and lovers of the great outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Most of these lakes are protected by various conservation agencies to ensure that their natural resources and their beauty are protected and preserved for future generations.
These lakes near Charlotte are all a beauty to behold and are among the most relaxing destinations you can enjoy with your family and loved ones.
