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LAKE JAMES
HISTORY OF...
From River...
The 6,500-acre body of water that is Lake James was formed between 1916 and 1923
when dams were built across the Catawba River and two tributaries, Paddy
Creek and Linville River. The lake continues to serve as a hydroelectric
unit for Duke Power Company and was named for its founder, James B. Duke
...to State Park...
Lake James State Park was established with the purchase of 565 acres on the
southern shore of the lake. Along with campsites and boat landings, park
facilities include 20 picnic sites with tables and grills, horseshoe pits,
concession stand, restrooms, and a public pay phone. Canoes may also be
rented seasonally. Nature programs, most including including hikes along
the shoreline, are presented twice monthly by park rangers.
...to "the Big Screen"
While many people enjoy visiting Lake James, even more have seen the picturesque
lake on film. The lush Forests and panoramic mountains of Lake James have
been backdrops for two feature films- The Hunt for Red
October and Last of the Mohicans.
And there's more to the area than this beautiful lake. Nearby you'll find
the Blue Ridge Parkway, waterfalls, caverns, history museums, gem mining, gold
panning, crafts, and more.
You'll find Lake James in McDowell and Burke Counties, five miles east of Marion
on NC 126. From Interstate 40, take the Nebo/ Lake James Exit (#90), head
north, cross US 70 and follow the signs to the park. From the Marion
Bypass (US 221), follow the signs to the north side of Lake James via Hankins
Road.
For additional information concerning the Lake
James...
State Park, visit there website: [Lake
James State Park "Web Link"]
Fishing License requirement:
N.C. Wildlife Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh NC 27611
(828)652-4040 (Marion, NC)
For Golfing Information:
Marion Lake Club & Golf Course
P.O. Box 149
Nebo NC 27611
1(828)-652-6232
McDowell Tourism Development Authority
P.O. Box 1028
Marion NC 28752
1(800)-237-6111
150 Miles of Shoreline:
The clear waters of Lake James are renowned for their beauty and quality.
Fed by two high country streams and a river called the Catawba, it expands to
more than 150 miles of wooded shoreline. Spotted with coves and islands.,
Lake James is a premier location for relaxation and recreation.
Golfing:
An 18-hole golf course carved out of the forest awaits visitors to the Lake
James area. The par-70 Marion Lake Club & Golf Course features 7,390
yards of sprawling, green links. On this course, a camera is as necessary
as a putter. A second course is located near Old Fort, and ten others are
within an hour's drive of Marion.
Camping:
Even during summer months, lake James; cool mountain breezes guarantee a restful
night's sleep. Within the state park, 18 backpack campsites are located
150 to 300 yards from the parking lot, and two handicap sites are accessible by
vehicle. Each site includes a grill, picnic table, and nearby water, so
all amenities aren't left behind. Several commercial campgrounds also
serve lakeside campers- from RV's to tents.
Fishing:
Test your angling skills amidst plentiful coves, submerged islands and rocky
points, where annual fishing tournaments are held. Some fish to try for
are largemouth bass, walleye, white bass, crappie, and catfish.
Record-breaking catches have been landed here, so you may never have to tell any
stories about the one that got away.
Water Sports:
With more than 6,500 acres of water, Lake James is a huge playground for
swimming skiing and all types of boating. In addition to a public beach,
there are two boat ramps, Hidden Cove and Canal Bridge, within the state
park. Elsewhere and around the lake, you'll find a number of other launch
sites, as well as, marinas that offer boats and motors for rent.
Hiking:
With its hidden coves and thick woods, Lake James makes for wonderful
hiking. And within the state park, two footpaths follow the forested
shoreline to overlook platforms with exceptional views. The lake is framed
by blooming dogwoods and flame azalea in spring and by blazing leaf colors in
fall. Each season offers a new vision of the lake's natural beauty.
Deer, flying squirrel, red and gray fox, rabbit, muskrat and mink all call Lake
James home.
Lake James
Landing & Campground: Full-service family campground and convenience
store offers boat ramps with parking, gas, fishing supplies, chartered fishing
tours, boat rentals, canoe rentals, groceries and snacks, picnic sites, boat
storage, meals, phone, and swimming. Located on Lake James Road on the
far-west side of Lake James...(828)652-2907
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