Lake Norman

Lake · Mecklenburg County

Lake Norman

Lake · Mecklenburg County

1

North Carolina

Photos

Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null
Lake Norman by null

Highlights

State's largest man-made lake & home to a diverse fish population, with a visitor center & marina.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
Placeholder
Placeholder

North Carolina Get directions

Information

Static Map

North Carolina Get directions

Features

Last updated

Jul 13, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@cntraveler

The 14 Best Things to Do in Charlotte

"Lake Norman, just 20 miles north of Uptown, feels a million nautical miles away from Charlotte's hustle and bustle. This is the largest man-made lake in the Carolinas, which means there's plenty of space for boating, fishing, watersports, and just chilling out. You'll see all types here, from beer-toting and bikini-clad singles to adventurous, fun-seeking families. Whether you fancy pontoon boats or paddle boards, kayaks or wakeboards, remember that Lake Norman is all about being on the water—not just looking at it from the shoreline." - Nancy DePalma

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-charlotte-nc
View Postcard for Lake Norman

Robert Thaxton

Google
Awesome lake over 52 mi.² and 515 linear miles of shoreline. Clear water, sandy beach, islands, lovely scenery and beautiful houses.

Peter Erickson

Google
For us this was an exploratory visit. From Charlotte (south of the lake), Google brought us to the northern most point, where the visitors' center is located. I expect there are other points on the lake that would be more convenient to Charlotte but going to the visitor center explained the park's main feature is the bike trails (Hiking too, I guess). Visitor center: gift shop & public restrooms. No entry fee. No parking fee. Picnic areas, some with BBQ pits, for family sized group. Larger areas for organized events also available (reservations may be required). Canoe & paddle board rentals. Nearby boat ramp available.

Neal Young

Google
It truly is our own Inland Sea. Grew up on the shores of LKN and now spend just about every weekend March through September on the lake. Absolutely the best sunsets around.

Ice Time

Google
Place is absolutely beautiful. Great place to hang out. Been here a lot, so it’s definitely worth it. Other than the water getting dirty at times, it’s a great destination to hang out. Weather sometimes gets on your nerves, but that with everything that goes on. Definitely coming back here for my next visit.

Sevor Klu

Google
Great family place. Kayaking, biking, hiking, or swimming, or camping you name it. You can do it all at Lake Norman. You can visit the educational center to learn all about the Lake and how far it extends throughout the state. Walk through the trails, and dip your feet in the water.

Suniti Kukreja

Google
Beautiful lake with tons to do. We went kayaking in the sunrise and sunset. Enjoyed both experiencea. Then we went out on a baot with the whole family. You can stop on islands or the state park and a have a wonderful day out in the nature.

Caryn Bennett

Google
Beautiful hike! My husband and I took the Lake Shore Trail to the 2.5 mile point and then cut to the short trail (it was hot and we didn't have enough water) The trail is natural and in a few spots not really well marked. Roots and rocks make it important to watch your step. We saw lots of spiders, a black snake and squirrels, but its the trees that really make it! The canopy gets really thick and the path shaded. We can't wait to go back!

Justin K.

Google
Decent lake overall. Beautiful homes to look at. Good mix of open water for activities, and inlets for more privacy.