The 10 Biggest Lakes in North Carolina
From Lake Mattamuskeet to Belews Lake, these are the ten biggest lakes in North Carolina.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Table of Contents
- Lake Mattamuskeet (40,000 acres)
- Lake Norman (31,878 acres)
- High Rock Lake (15,181 acres)
- Jordan Lake (13,939 acres)
- Lake Wylie (13,440 acres)
- Lake Fontana (10,227 acres)
- Lake Lure (9,197 acres)
- Lake James (6,528 acres)
- Badin Lake (5,350 acres)
- Belews Lake (3,864 acres)
- Protecting yourself while you travel
- FAQs
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North Carolina
is known for its breathtaking beaches and jaw-dropping mountain views, but with almost 150,000 acres of inland lakes, coastal water, and joint water, there’s ample opportunity for fishing, boating, and exploring as well—North Carolina’s ten biggest lakes have something for everyone to enjoy! The lakes in North Carolina are not only a top destination for tourists and locals, but they’re relatively shallow, which makes for excellent recreational activities. Plus, being surrounded by the Appalachian mountains, there’s a variety of water temperatures, wildlife, and no shortage of views wherever you go.
But in a state full of lakes and reservoirs, how do you choose which ones to visit?
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversLake Mattamuskeet (40,000 acres)
Location: Fairfield, NC
As the largest natural lake in North Carolina, Lake Mattamuskeet is a coastal paradise and a must-see for anyone visiting the state. Old folklore claims that the lake was created when a peat fire burned and left a large space filled with water and fish. Rain, creeks, and rivers provide incoming fresh water to the lake.
Lake Mattamuskeet is relatively shallow—the entire lake is only two to three feet in depth but spans 18 miles in length and 7 miles in width—making it the perfect spot to boat, fish, kayak, swim, or just explore the area by foot. And because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it’s also a great spot to birdwatch and is known for large populations of Northern Pintail, Green-Wing Teal, Canada Geese, and Tundra Swans.
Lake Norman (31,878 acres)
Location: Denver, NC
With more than 500 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest human-made body of water in the Carolinas—and a relatively new one at that. Just 20 miles north of
Charlotte
, Lake Norman beckons nature-lovers, foodies, loungers, and outdoor adventurers. There are bike trails, beaches, and a free boat ramp for anglers and cruisers—and if you’re planning to leave your boat at Lake Norman, you’ll find storage at either two yacht clubs along the shoreline. If you’re planning to stay the night, pitch a tent at one of the 32 campgrounds with kitchen facilities, restrooms, and outdoor fire pits, or if it’s just a day trip, rent a boat at the visitor center and explore the lake by pedal boat, kayak, paddleboard, or canoe. Or if you’re feeling something a little different, check out
Charlotte Cycleboats
—you’ll find private and party cruises around Lake Norman, but remember, it’s BYOB. High Rock Lake (15,181 acres)
Location: Lexington, NC
High Rock Lake needs to be on your list if you're a fisher. With a reputation as one of the best fishing lakes in the state (and the second biggest), High Rock Lake has more than just its size going for it. It’s played host to several Bassmaster Classic fishing derbies—and is known for having an abundance of largemouth bass.
Several private and public boat ramps line the shore and all boats are fair game—motorized and non-motorized. If you’re planning to stay the night, there are private campgrounds along the water to pitch your tent after a long day on the water. High Rock Lake sits in the Yadkin Valley region, also known as North Carolina’s wine country, so it’s also a great destination for a romantic lake getaway!
Jordan Lake (13,939 acres)
Location: Pittsboro, NC
If you’re looking for an adventure, Jordan Lake fits the bill. Located just west and south of
Raleigh
and Durham, the large reservoir covers nearly 14,000 acres and has enough activities to match its size. With more than 1,000 campsites along the shoreline ranging from basic tent camping to borderline-glamping full RV setups, it’s a great spot to hang tight for a few nights. If you feel like lounging, there are plenty of options. With seven beaches to choose from, it’s one of North Carolina’s best swimming spots. Plus, you’re surrounded by 17 miles of stunning hiking trails if you feel like taking a break from the sun.
Lake Wylie (13,440 acres)
Location: York County, NC
Located in both of the Carolinas, Lake Wyles straddles the border of North and South Carolina and features a whopping 325 miles of shoreline. This human-made reservoir has ample opportunities for fun—there are two public boat access points on the shore. Whether you’re looking to explore the area, nosh on some local food, or just take in the gorgeous scenery, there’s something for everyone.
Or, if you’re feeling like some fun, rent a pontoon boat and get your fishing rod out! Fish and good times are abundant at Lake Wylie.
Lake Fontana (10,227 acres)
Location: Fontana Dam, NC
Sandwiched between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest, Lake Fontana is stunning and fun to explore. There are plenty of inlets, coves, and islands, so grab a boat and get your camera ready!
If you’re not keen on getting your toes wet, hiking trails surround the lake on both sides—it’s one of the only places to access the remote areas of the Smoky Mountains National Park. However, certain trailheads can only be reached by boat when the water is high. Be sure to check out the fantastic views of the entire lake from nearly one mile up at the observation tower at Clingmans Dome!
Lake Lure (9,197 acres)
Location: Lake Lure, NC
North Carolina’s one and only Lake Lure is most famous for being a backdrop for the classic movie, Dirty Dancing. A popular destination for several blockbuster films, Lake Lure is about as scenic as scenic gets. While it may not have the seven beaches of Jordan Lake, it does have a cathedral of mountain cliffs to offer the perfect blend of romance and charm in one of the most stunning settings you can find.
Take a hike through the woods, get your adrenaline pumping on a thrilling mountain bike ride, or take in the views from the water while fishing, boating, or kayaking. You’ll find many options for accommodations, dining, and shopping, so it’s no wonder that Lake Lure is one of North Carolina’s top destinations for multi-sport adventurers looking for unrivaled beauty in every direction.
Lake James (6,528 acres)
Location: Nebo, NC
Like Lake Lure, Lake James is the perfect backdrop for some of the best Hollywood films—you’ll see it in The Last of the Mohicans starring Daniel Day-Lewis and The Hunt for Red October. The lake offers several recreational activities for the whole family.
With 25 miles of hiking trails, 15 of which are mountain-bike friendly, you can explore the area on a short-and-sweet trail or opt for the more adventurous portion of the Overmountain Victory Trail.
While it was originally created to provide hydroelectric power to the area, Lake James has transformed into one of the top destinations for outdoor recreation and one of the most scenic lakes in the state. If you’re planning to stay a few nights, Lake James has three campgrounds ranging from family-friendly sites to the true outdoor adventure experience. You’ll also find boat ramps at Hidden Cove and Canal Bridge.
Badin Lake (5,350 acres)
Location: New London, NC
Imagine waking up to see a calm, serene lake with jaw-dropping mountains behind—that’s the view you’ll get at Badin Lake. While the lake itself may be small, the views make up for its size.
There are plenty of recreational activities, from golfing and hiking to camping, hunting, and fishing. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, spotted bass, white bass, and striped bass are all native to the lake, but don’t expect any trout!
Located just an hour from Charlotte, Badin Lake is the perfect spot for all sorts of land and lake activities, but there’s one thing Badin Lake has in the bag—the intense greenery. With 115 miles of serene shoreline accented by flora and fauna of Morrow Mountain State Park and the Uwharrie National Forest, it’s the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, birders, and anyone looking for a bit of solitude. But make sure you stay for the sunsets—they’re not to be missed!
MORE: 10 best neighborhoods in Charlotte, North Carolina
Belews Lake (3,864 acres)
Location: Stokesdale, NC
It may be the smallest lake on our list, and it may not be large enough to be considered a major reservoir, but it’s far from just a little pond. Belews Lake is located just north of
Greensboro
and is an excellent destination for boating, fishing, and water skiing. You’ll find two marinas on the lake where you can rent a boat or grab a bite to eat after a day on the water. And if you’re planning to spend a few days exploring the area, there are campsites galore along the shoreline, so bring your tent and watch the sunset over the water!
Protecting yourself while you travel
With more than 300 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and some of the most stunning views of rolling mountains, visiting North Carolina might just make it to the top of your bucket list. But if you’re planning to take a
road trip
to one of the country’s finest destinations, make sure you’ve packed a solid car insurance policy. Luckily,
Jerry
’s got you covered. Sign up on the app in less than one minute and access the most competitive quotes from over 55 top insurance providers. Once you find the right rate for you, finalizing the details and canceling your existing policy is just as easy!You could save more than $800 a year on car insurance with Jerry, which you can put towards your North Carolina lake adventures!
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FAQs
Where is the oldest lake in North Carolina?
Nestled into Waccamaw State Park is Lake Waccamaw, the oldest lake in North Carolina. It’s the second-largest natural lake in the state and is estimated to have been formed more than 30,000 years ago—and its beauty is just breathtaking.
Are there natural lakes in North Carolina?
North Carolina is home to dozens of lakes and reservoirs, of which only three are natural—Mattamuskeet Lake, Lake Waccamaw, and Phelps Lake.
