North Carolina's Largest Man-Made Lake Glistens In A Thrilling State Park To Swim, Boat, Fish, And Camp

North Carolina has its fair share of natural paradises. Destinations like the Crystal Coast include a barrier island with wild ponies, white sand, and clear water. Sometimes, however, humans successfully produce an Eden that would impress Mother Nature herself. Lake Norman, North Carolina's largest man-made lake, offers a stunning addition to the natural world, home to glistening waters and a diverse collection of wildlife. Its thrilling eponymous state park is a forested oasis with fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. While Lake Norman's 32,510-acre surface is visually stunning, the 3.4 trillion gallons of water it contains is even more impressive. 

A fascinating history full of ambition and ingenuity rests at the lake's bottom. The lake was originally envisioned by an engineer from the Niagara Falls dam, who imagined damming the Catawba River for hydropower. Lake Norman, completed in 1964, is the youngest and largest of Duke Electric's seven artificial lakes. Given that the lake did not exist until 60 years ago, its depths include the remains of a former summer camp, cotton mill, the site of a Civil War battle, highways, a bridge, plantations, and an airplane. You may not be able to snorkel or scuba dive to the bottom, but simply knowing a chunk of civilization lies in the depths below creates a mind-boggling experience.

Lake Norman State Park covers about 17 miles of Lake Norman's shoreline, yet promises a variety of aquatic adventure. Anglers, both professional and amateur, can cast a line to reel in a trophy. Despite being man made, the lake boasts an aquatic menagerie with over a dozen species living in its waters. Black bullhead, crappie, five varieties of bass, and walleye all call the lake home. Your odds of having fun and catching fish increase if you're on a boat. Thankfully, there are kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals available. If you're lucky enough to own your own boat, the park has a public access ramp.

Visitors who'd rather be in the water than on it are in luck. The lake's 125-foot long sandy oasis, with neighboring restrooms and a concession stand, make a day at the beach part of the fun. The beach is open seasonally between April 1 and October 31. 

The State Park's 44 campsites and several primitive group camping sites offer some proximity to the lake, but with enough seclusion for total privacy and immersion in nature. Some sites include hookups for trailers and RVs, as well as access to toilets and hot showers to keep things somewhat civilized. There are also six cabins, with room for six people in each. While heating and air conditioning are available, you'll have to bring your own linens and pillows.

Lake Norman State Park is located about 40 miles north of Charlotte, so out-of-state travelers are best off flying to the city's airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). The lake is within driving distance of some of North Carolina's most underrated destinations. Those with a creative streak should make the 40-minute trip to Salisbury, an impressive art hub situated between Charlotte and Greensboro. Foodies visiting the state park can take a detour along the "Cradle of 'Cue," a 15-stop food road trip with unbeatable barbecue.

If you want to time your visit to perfection, aim for spring or fall. With school still in session and milder temperatures, you'll have fewer crowds to contend with. Autumn offers the added benefit of breathtaking hues as the foliage changes color. Bring whatever you need to have a good time, such as sunscreen, bug spray, appropriate footwear, and gear. While you gaze out at the water, remember that Lake Norman is so much more than meets the eye, with sunken remnants of civilization resting on the lake's bottom.