Enjoying Lake Norman

Whether you choose a home on the lake with a private dock, a home with a deeded community boat slip, a condo with a waterview, or a home in a neighborhood nearby, there are many ways for you to access and enjoy Lake Norman.

Lake Norman Facts

In 1963, the Catawba River was dammed by Duke Power at Cowan's Ford crossing to create Lake Norman for the purpose of generating power. There is a coal-fired steam plant at the north end and McGuire Nuclear Station and Cowan's Ford Hydro Station by the southern dam. The lake is named for former Duke Power president Norman Cocke. There are 10 other lakes on the Catawba River chain, but Lake Norman is larger than all the others combined. It is the crown jewel and one of the nicest lakes in the entire southeast.

Lake Norman has 520 miles of shoreline, a surface area of 32,475 acres, and is 34 miles in length. The main river channel is over 110' deep in places. At full pond, the elevation is 760' above sea level.

The lake level is controlled by Duke Power. They bring the lake level down a few feet in the winter to accommodate the Spring snow melt from the mountains. It is allowed to fluctuate by as much as 9 feet, but rarely fluctuates more than 5 feet.

Lake Norman is a popular fishing lake, hosting several tournaments throughout the year. You can find sailing clubs, water skiing clubs, and take all kinds of lessons.

Lake Norman's new public beach is located in Cornelius at Ramsey Creek Park. The Park also hosts a dog park, picnic areas, trails, and a community boat launch ramp.

Fishermen

Parks

Lake Norman State Park is located on the northern river channel in Troutman. It consists of 1,934 acres, with 13 miles of lake shoreline, and has the largest public beach on the lake. It's also a favorite for hikers and cyclists.

There are several other parks with lake access, including Jetton Park and Ramsey Creek Park in Cornelius, Blythe Landing Park in Huntersville, and Beatty's Ford Park in Denver. Several parks include public boat launches.

Public Boat Launches & Marinas

In addition to the parks above, there are a couple dozen additional boat launch areas and commercial marinas around the lake. Click Here to see maps of all lake access points.

Marinas offer everything from wet slips, to dry boat storage, to full and half-day boat and jet ski rentals.