1. Introduction
Discover some fantastic lake destinations near Asheville, North Carolina, perfect for beating the summer heat.
2. Lake Lure Beach
Best for families
With its waterslide and water park, Lake Lure Beach is a blast for families. Located about 45 minutes from Asheville in Hickory Nut Gorge, this artificial lake features a sandy beach, lifeguards, and a picnic area. Instead of the ocean’s backdrop, beachgoers enjoy views of the forested slopes and granite ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can learn more about the history of the 14-mile gorge and notable landmarks featured in the movie Dirty Dancing on a guided boat tour (adult/senior/child $18/16/8). It’s easy to combine a Lake Lure beach visit with a trip to Chimney Rock Park, home to a 315ft granite monolith.
The beach is open daily from 10am to 5pm from early June through mid-August, and from mid-August through early September, it operates on weekends only. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $8 for children aged 4 to 12 years. Visitors can rent pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards at the marina.
3. Lake James State Park
Best for active travelers
The sandy beach at this vast reservoir is a top choice for active beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy the 700ft-long swimming beach in the Paddy’s Creek Area of the state park and find amenities such as a bathhouse, concessions, a picnic area, and lifeguards. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes can be rented from the concession stand (Fri-Sun May-Sep; $10 per hour with a 2-hour minimum). Beyond the beach, you can hike 25 miles across 14 trails, or tackle 15 miles of mountain biking trails. Look out for bald eagles while exploring. Anglers can cast for largemouth bass, and a fishing license is required. Admission to the beach and swimming area is $6 for adults and $4 for children aged 3 to 12 years.
4. Pines Recreation Area at Glenville Lake
Best for hikers
The beach at Lake Glenville in the Pines Recreation Area won’t take up much space, but the setting is stunning. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and picnic here, with amenities accessible for all. For those interested in hiking, the High Falls trailhead lies directly across Pine Creek Rd. The hike to the cascades features beautiful views and is relatively easy. The recreation area is 65 miles southwest of Asheville and 10 miles south of Cashiers.
5. Wildcat Lake
Best for cold water swimming
Wildcat Lake, located at 3700ft in Banner Elk, is a perfect escape to cool off. It features a white sand beach, swimming pier, fishing dock, and lifeguards. Popular activities include kayaking and canoeing, with motorized boats prohibited. The lake is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, and trout, and while there is no admission fee, donations are accepted. The bathing area is equipped with a bathhouse and picnic tables.
6. Sliding Rock Recreation Area
Best for thrillseekers
Sliding Rock Recreation Area is renowned for its natural granite waterslide, propelling brave swimmers into an 8ft-deep pool. Lifeguards are present daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and restrooms/ changing rooms are available when lifeguards are on duty. Admission is $4. To avoid crowds, consider arriving early or later in the day.
7. Lake Powhatan
Best for campers
Surrounded by hardwoods and conifers, Lake Powhatan in Pisgah National Forest offers an excellent spot for campers with easy access to a swimming beach. Rental boats are available, but personal watercraft are not permitted to protect the local ecosystem. Fishing is allowed, and various trails are accessible for hiking and mountain biking, providing additional outdoor opportunities.
This article was last updated in May 2022.
