Tucked away in rolling hills at the base of Linville Gorge is Lake James, a 6,510-acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline. This impressive waterway is the centerpiece of Lake James State Park. Here, nature offers scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains and beckons to those with an appetite for recreation.
Bring family and friends to one of North Carolina’s newest state parks for a variety of activities. Try swimming and sunbathing or enjoy a picnic along the lakeshore. Boat, water ski or fish in cool mountain waters, or take a walk and enjoy an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife along park trails. Lake James offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors.
I stopped in on my way to Marion NC to teach and was pleasantly surprised. It is a bit area and look a while to find the public park area but it was worth the effort. I love the little beach area with picnic tables and hiking area I found. It is wonderful mountain lake shared with park areas and residential homes. I am so glad I got to take the time to visit. The local Chamber of Commerce recommended it to me. Good choice.
As a teen I loved going to Lake James. I am now a mom of seven and wanted to take the kids to visit. We live in Gastonia, about 1and half hour away. I had been to the lake last summer and had a blast! I h add made the decesion to go to lake mainly because its was FREE! Was I surprised.. Its cost us 30 dollars to get in. they did not have atm some we had to leave and drive 15 min to nearest atm. After all that the kids had a good time. Its was a good expierence just a bit costly for what you get. I understand the whole budget deal but I think 4 to 5 bucks a person to swim in a lake is a little much.
Nice place.
Would. Love. To camp there
I visit this state park about once a year. The campground also has a boat dock!