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About
Effective as of January 8: North Carolina remains in a modified Stay At Home order until January 29. Restaurants, salons/personal care businesses, and pools are open at 50% capacity and there is a statewide requirement for face coverings where social distancing is not possible. More Resources
Q: How big is Lake Norman?
A: Lake Norman is 34 miles long, covers 32,750 acres with a shoreline of 520 miles extending over Mecklenburg, Iredell, Catawba, and Lincoln.
• The average depth is 25 feet with deepest point being over 110 feet
• The annual draw-down of the lake starts in September at 98% full pond and ends in February at 92% full pond for snow run-off and rains
• Maximum draw-down is 15 feet
Q: Why was Lake Norman created?
A: Completed in the 1960's, Lake Norman is the largest of 11 reservoirs in the Catawba River built by Duke Power to supply energy to new industries in the growing region. It was named for Norman Atwater Cocke, a longtime Duke Power company president.Lake Norman is host to three power stations: Cowans Ford Hydroelectric Station, Marshall Steam Plant - Duke Power's second largest coal-burning plant, and McGuire Nuclear Station.
Q: Where can you stay directly on the lake?
A: Our area has several brand-name hotels to meet your needs, while none of our area hotels are directly on the water, they are located along I-77, and most are 5-10 minutes from the water.
Q: Where can you swim on Lake Norman?
A: One public access is at Ramsey Creek Park.
The park offers an enclosed dog park, fishing pier and boat doc, picnic shelters, playground, volleyball court and swimming beach.
A: The second is located at the Lake Norman State Park located at exit 42 off I-77. Call for hours and fees.
Lake Norman State Park
159 Inland Sea Lane, Troutman, NC 28166
Phone: 704-528-6350 Fax: 704-528-5263
Email: dpstpark@I-america.net
Q: What are the waterfront parks?
A: There are four parks with access to Lake Norman. Three of them are Mecklenburg County Parks: Jetton Park, Ramsey Creek Park, and Blythe Landing off I-77, exit 28-Cornelius.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Yes, click here for a list of Pet Friendly Hotels, Pet Services, Pet Daycare and Dog Parks.
Q: Where can I get a NC fishing license?
A: Can be purchased online at www.ncwildlife.org or in person at West Marine, Wal-Mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, or local tackle shops.
Q: Where can I get information on rules, regulations, and building permits on and around Lake Norman?
A: Dock & Building Permits: Duke Energy Lake Management (does not regulate dock or building permits) Uninhabited lake islands only. 1-800-443-5193.
Lake Norman Marine Commission - 704-372-2416
Lake Levels - 1-800-829-LAKE
Q: Are there campgrounds around Lake Norman?
A: Yes, find this handout for camping information.
Q: Who helps regulate safe boating on Lake Norman?
A: The Coast Guard Auxiliary assists the local law enforcement, fire departments, and rescue groups, providing safety patrols, Search and Rescue, and crowd management at events and during the week. Also assist stranded boaters in getting to the closest safe harbor, and advising boaters of safety violations. Go to www.cgauxlkn.com for more information.