Lakes in North Carolina
Often overshadowed by the dramatic peaks of the Rockies or the serene waters of the Pacific Northwest, North Carolina quietly holds some of the most captivating lakes in the country. From tucked-away mountain gems to sprawling reservoirs perfect for adventure, there’s a watery escape here for every kind of traveler. I discovered these hidden spots on my three week road trip in North Carolina, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Bass Lake - 2 hours from Asheville
Just two hours from Asheville, this tucked-away gem sits on the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers peaceful waters, lush forests, and easy access to hiking. Bass Lake’s the kind of place where you can slow down and breathe deeply, surrounded by beautiful High Country.
The lake itself is part of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. This is a historic estate with 25 miles of carriage trails. The loop trail around Bass Lake is a local favorite especially in the summer. It's flat, shaded, and offering postcard-worthy views of the water reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- What to Know Before Visiting Bass Lake
- Best Airport: Asheville Regional (AVL) or Charlotte Douglas (CLT)
- How Many Days: 1–2 for the lake itself, 3–4 if combining with Blowing Rock/Boone
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring–fall for peak scenery; winter for solitude
We based ourselves at 4-star Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock for two days. For food, grab coffee and pastries at Stick Boy Bread Company in Boone, enjoy farm-to-table meals at The Gamekeeper, or treat yourself to a Southern-inspired dinner at Bistro Roca. For casual bites, Town Tavern offers hearty pub fare, perfect after a long hike.
What should you do at Bass Lake and near it? Walk or bike on the Bass Lake Loop. The nearby Glen Burney Trail descends to waterfalls right from downtown Blowing Rock. Or drive along a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway for sweeping overlooks. I think that Bass Lake is one of the best in North Carolina because as a vacation destination it's the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxed mountain living, all just a couple hours from Asheville.
2. Beaver Lake - 15 minutes north of downtown Asheville, NC
If you don't have a lot of time to get away as an Asheville local, Beaver Lake is perfect. Just 15 minutes north of downtown, this peaceful, private lake offers locals and visitors alike a quiet break from the city’s buzz. Nestled in North Asheville, it’s framed by mountain homes, walking paths, and gentle waters that invite a slower pace without ever leaving town.
The Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary, a 10-acre wetlands preserve at the lake’s southern edge, was a highlight because I love birdwatching. Meanwhile, the 2-mile walking path that circles the lake is a favorite spot for joggers, families, and anyone looking for fresh mountain air close to the city.
- What to Know Before Visiting Beaver Lake
- Best Airport: Asheville Regional (AVL)
- How Many Days: A few hours to half a day
- Time of Year to Visit: Year-round; spring and fall for peak color and birdwatching
Where do you stay near Beaver Lake? We stayed at The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa for two nights but there are lots of other options.
So where should you eat near Beaver Lake? After your walk, head to North Asheville favorites like Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian for hearty pasta, Taco Temple for creative tacos, or the Fresh Market for picnic supplies. A quick drive brings you to downtown’s award-winning food scene, from tapas at Cúrate to brews and bites at Wicked Weed.
What should you do at Beaver Lake? Swimming and boating require permits, but walking around the loop and visiting the Bird Sanctuary are open to the public. Look for herons, warblers, and migrating waterfowl. Families will love the easy, stroller-friendly paths. Bring a picnic to unwind, recharge, and enjoy nature without leaving Asheville.
3. Cedar Cliff Lake - 1 hour from Bryson City
Welcome to Cedar Cliff Lake, one of Western North Carolina’s most peaceful hidden waters. Just an hour from Bryson City, this tucked-away reservoir sits along the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County. Unlike the larger and busier Fontana or Nantahala Lakes, Cedar Cliff offers a quieter experience. Truly, I think that its emerald-green waters edged by forested slopes feel like your own private mountain escape that completely won me over.
Cedar Cliff Lake is managed by Duke Energy and is smaller in scale than its neighboring reservoirs, which makes it especially appealing for paddlers and anglers. With little development along its shores, it has a wild, secluded character that rewards visitors looking for solitude and reflection.
- What to Know Before Visiting Cedar Cliff Lake
- Best Airport: Asheville Regional (AVL) or Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson (TYS)
- How Many Days: Half-day to a full day
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring–fall for water activities; October for brilliant foliage
Where do you stay near Cedar Cliff Lake? The closest base is Sylva, with its historic downtown, breweries, and basic accommodations like Comfort Inn Sylva.
Dining is also best in Sylva or nearby Dillsboro. Favorites include Guadalupe Café, Innovation Brewing, and the Coffee Shop, a retro-style diner perfect for breakfast. In Dillsboro, the Jarrett House is a good place.
Life around Cedar Cliff Lake centers on the water. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding let you explore its narrow coves, while anglers come for bass and trout fishing. Motorboats are allowed. The lake’s smaller size keeps things mellow. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the calm. Hiking options abound nearby, from trails in the Nantahala National Forest to easy riverside strolls along the Tuckasegee.
4. Falls Lake - 10 miles from both Raleigh and Durham
I loved Falls Lake, the Triangle’s outdoor playground. Just 10 miles from both Raleigh and Durham, this 12,000-acre reservoir made it easy to enjoy forested trails and sandy beaches.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area is divided into several access points, each with its own character:
- Beaverdam — a no-wake zone ideal for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
- Rolling View — with campgrounds and family-friendly swim areas
- Sandling Beach — a favorite for summer picnics
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail also passes through the park!.
- What to Know Before Visiting Falls Lake
- Best Airport: Raleigh-Durham International (RDU)
- How Many Days: A half-day to 2 days (with camping)
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring–fall for water recreation; winter for peaceful hikes
I took day tips to Falls Lake but Rolling View and Holly Point offer lakeside campsites, making it easy to wake up to sunrise over the water. You'll need to pack a lakeside picnic lunch though Falls Village offers quick bites and grocery essentials.
I loved how days at Falls Lake are about choosing your own pace. Swim or picnic at one of the sandy beaches, launch a kayak in Beaverdam Lake, hike a bit alont the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, or take a motorboat out for fishing. Birdwatchers will find ospreys, herons, and even bald eagles along the shoreline. Families love the easy trails and playgrounds near the swim areas, while anglers come for bass and catfish.
5. Finger Lakes Of The South - 1.5 hours from Knoxville
The Finger Lakes of the South refers to a chain of long, narrow mountain lakes in Western North Carolina often compared to New York’s famous Finger Lakes. They include Lake Glenville, Cedar Cliff, Bear Creek, and Wolf Lake. Just an hour and a half from Knoxville, these lakes line the rugged valleys of the Nantahala and Blue Ridge Mountains. I loved the forested shorelines, and plenty of space for adventure or relaxation.
Each has its own character, but together they form a hidden paradise of tucked-away coves, waterfall-fed inlets, and wooded ridgelines that make you feel far removed from city life.
- What to Know Before Visiting the Finger Lakes of the South
- Best Airport: Asheville Regional (AVL) or Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson (TYS)
- How Many Days: 2–4 to experience multiple lakes
- Time of Year to Visit: May–September for water play; October for brilliant foliage
The nearby towns of Sylva, Cullowhee, and Cashiers make perfect bases, with a mix of mountain inns, vacation cabins, and lakeside rentals. Bryson City, about an hour farther west, adds access to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and a charming downtown.
Where should you eat? Small towns around the lakes offer cozy and creative dining. In Sylva, try Innovation Brewing for craft beer and food trucks. Cashiers and Highlands add upscale mountain dining, while roadside diners and barbecue joints keep it casual and hearty. Pack a picnic if you’re spending the day paddling or boating.
Conclusion
Every lake in North Carolina is an invitation to let your hair down for the weekend (or a day). I've always found lakes very relaxing and spent many summers camping on lakeshore with many family. North Carolina is a perfect state for lake lovers.
There are many great options next to nearly every major city. Even if if you haven't experienced the peace and relaxation of a lake yet, you have to give it a go and these lakes are the perfect place to start.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
