Charlotte Area Lake Living: Lake Norman

Created from the Catawba River, which flows west of Charlotte, Lake Norman, Lake Wylie and Mountain Island Lake offer endless recreational opportunities. From boating and waterskiing to fishing and camping along the shores of these beautiful lakes, water enthusiasts are sure to be satisfied in the Charlotte region.                            Lake Norman ________________________________________________________________________________________ Located just 20 miles northwest of Charlotte, Lake Norman is often referred to as the “Inland Sea.” With 520 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 32,475 acres, Lake Norman is the largest body of fresh water in the state. The lake was created in 1963 when Duke Power constructed the Cowans Ford Dam and was named after former Duke Power President Norman Cocke. Beyond the power it generates, Lake Norman is a major water source for Mooresville, Davidson, Huntersville, Charlotte and Lincoln County. Fishing in Lake Norman is quite plentiful, with crappie, bluegill and yellow perch in addition to striped, largemouth and white bass. Spanning 1,500 acres, Lake Norman State Park in Troutman includes 13 miles of shoreline, biking and hiking trails and camping along the peninsula that juts out into the lake. The park also offers a new lakefront swimming area and beach equipped with lifeguard during the summer months.   Lake Norman Public Access Areas Upper Section Long Island Access Area—919-715-3155 Lake Norman State Park—704-528-6350 Bill’s Marina—704-241-3438 Long Island Marina—828-241-4877 Stumpy Creek Access Area—N/A McCrary Creek Access Area—N/A Pinnacle Access Area—919-715-3155 Marshall Fishing Area—N/A North Bridge Marina—704-663-4600 River City Marina—704-663-6000 Skipper’s Marina—704-528-9880 Lower Section Lake Norman Marina—704-483-5546 Mountain Creek Marina—704-483-0077 Lake Norman Motel, Restaurant and Marina—704-478-2817 The Boat Rack Marina—704-478-2118 Hager Creek Access Area—919-715-3155 Little Creek Access Area—919-715-3155 Westport Dry Storage—704-438-5172 Holiday Harbor—704-892-0561 Beatties Ford Access Area—919-715-3155 Jetton Road County Park—704-896-9808 Ramsey Creek Access Area—704-892-7852 McGuire Fishing Area—N/A Energy Explorium—704-875-5600 Blythe Landing County Park—704-896-9808 All Seasons Marina—704-892-3478 Stutts Bait and Tackle—704-664-3106 Inland Sea Marina—704-664-4414