Lakes in North Carolina
Looking for the best lakes to visit on your next weekend getaway? During my recent four week road trip, I found that North Carolina's lakes are some of the unique hidden gems in the South since moving here. 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 unique lakes that I want to share with you. Which one do you visit first? Check out the closest to your home and then go from there...
1. Bass Lake near Blowing Rock and Boone - 2 hours from Asheville
Just two hours from Asheville (you can fly to Asheville Regional Airport, rent a car, and drive from there), near Blowing Rock and Boone, this gem of a lake sits on the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers peaceful waters, and easy access to hiking if you are feeling active. I thought that Bass Lake is one of the best lakes in North Carolina when I moved to the South. Why? Instead of having a long to do list here, Bass Lake’s the kind of place where you can slow down and take in beautiful High Country surroundings.
I found out that the lake itself is part of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. I found out from locals that 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. Why? It's flat, shaded, and has amazing places to stop for views of the water reflecting the surrounding peaks (when it's not windy!).
- 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. It's just 4 minutes to the lake but you really do need a car here. Another highlight for me personally was having so many food options near Bass Lake. First off, grab coffee and pastries at Stick Boy Bread Company in Boone as a quick breakfast and to bring on the trail with you for a picnic later. Second, go for farm-to-table meals at The Gamekeeper (their slogan is "an adventure in fine dining" and I totally agree), or treat yourself to a Southern-inspired dinner at Bistro Roca. For casual bites, Town Tavern offers hearty pub fare that we were so happy to find after a long hike.
What should you do at Bass Lake and near it? The best things to do is to walk or bike on the Bass Lake Loop. The nearby Glen Burney Trail is a highlight because it descends to waterfalls right from downtown Blowing Rock. Don't feel like hiking? No problem! 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 the best lake to visit in a day! Just 15 minutes north of downtown, Beaver Lake's peaceful, private and offers locals and visitors alike a quiet break from the city’s buzz. You'll find it in North Asheville along with walking paths close to the water.
The Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary, a 10-acre wetlands preserve at the lake’s southern edge, was SO amazing 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. I recommend doing a little bit of both. Follow the trail for exercise, then slow down and spot rare bird species.
- 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.
What do you do at Beaver Lake? Swimming and boating require permits, but walking around the loop and visiting the Bird Sanctuary are free for everyone to enjoy. 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 ever leaving Asheville. If you can just get away for an hour or two, trust me, the lake and nature will recharge you for your week ahead.
3. Cedar Cliff Lake, Western North Carolina - 1 hour from Bryson City
Welcome to Cedar Cliff Lake, one of Western North Carolina’s most peaceful hidden gems. Just an hour from Bryson City, this 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. We checked into 3-star Best Western Plus River Escape Inn & Suites for two days but you can easily day trip here instead.
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. Even if you are not particularly hungry, a stop at Great Commission Coffee and Dillsboro Chocolate Factory will connect you to the local vibe.
But basically 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. But...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 if you want a challenge 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 calm beaches.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area is divided into several access points, each with its own character. Here's my quick breakdown:
- 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 if you are in the mood for a longer hike!
- 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 from Raleigh, 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 along 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! If you usually head to the coast for your weekend breaks, North Carolina lakes offer the perfect opportunity to try something new and fresh!
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.
