Lake James Homes for Sale
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Lake James is one of Western North Carolina’s most scenic outdoor destinations, with tranquil waters, flourishing plant and animal life, stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and a variety of recreational activities to enjoy. Whether you come for a visit or decide to make Lake James your home, you’ll clearly see the many things locals and guests love about this hidden gem nestled in the mountains.
Explore the recreation options at Lake James, as well as the available Lake James real estate.
- About Lake James
- Towns Near Lake James
- Fishing at Lake James
- Lake James Outdoor Recreation
- Lake James Restaurants and Bars
- About Real Estate at Lake James
- Lake James Neighborhoods
Lake James sits at the base of Linville Gorge and offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains at every turn.
About Lake James
The lake, which is part of Lake James State Park, sits at the base of Linville Gorge, and it also borders Pisgah National Forest. Lake James and nearby mountains were used as the shooting location for the 1992 film Last of the Mohicans. This man-made lake exists because of Bridgewater Hydro Station, which was constructed by Western Carolina Power Company starting in 1916. The lake is named after James B. Duke, the company’s chairperson. It was originally created as a source of hydroelectric power for the area’s residents, and it continues to provide hydropower for Duke Energy. For a more detailed history of Lake James, check out this article on the Duke Energy website. Now, Lake James State Park and the small towns nearby are popular with tourists looking for a getaway in the outdoors.
There are few places better to be in Western North Carolina at sunset than on a boat on Lake James.
What town is Lake James near?
Lake James is located about an hour east of Asheville, close to the small towns of Marion, Nebo, and Morganton, NC. Here are some approximate drive times to Lake James:
- Asheville – 1 hour
- Black Mountain – 45 minutes
- Charlotte – 1 hour, 45 minutes
- Hickory – 55 minutes
- Marion – 23 minutes
- Morganton – 30 minutes
- Old Fort – 37 minutes
Can you fish in Lake James, NC?
Yes, fishing is allowed in Lake James. This deep, cold-water lake is home to many types of freshwater fish and it has become a popular destination for anglers. There are marinas around the shoreline that offer boat rentals and tackle and bait for sale.
What kind of fish can you catch in Lake James?
Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, striped bass, northern pike and tiger muskie can all be found in Lake James. In response to the lake’s popularity with fishing enthusiasts, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission enhanced the fish habitat in Lake James in 2013. With two large boulder reefs and 40 fish attractors added to the water, the Commission ensured that the fish population would remain healthy enough to support a high number of visitors each year. Click here for more information on fishing at Lake James.
Can you swim in Lake James, NC?
Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake James, and the water is clear and safe for kids to enjoy.
Lake James is a perfect place for water skiing and swimming.
Lake James Outdoor Recreation
With 150 miles of shoreline, Lake James has plenty of room for all its visitors. The state park is free to enter. Boating is allowed on the lake, and there are two boat ramps along NC-126 with access to the water: Canal Bridge (which is open 24/7) and Hidden Cove, which is open while the rest of the park is open. Various areas of the park offer canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, boats, and motors for rent.
If you would rather take a hike, check out the park’s 25 miles of trails, which range in difficulty from child-friendly to challenging. Fifteen of the trails are also open to mountain biking. To get a panoramic view of Lake James, Linville Gorge and the surrounding mountains, hike the Lake Channel Overlook Trail (a moderate three-mile round trip hike).
The Fonta Flora trail at Lake James offers breathtaking views and is open to hiking and mountain biking.
There are three campgrounds in the park: the Catawba River Area, with 20 walk-in campsites; the Paddy’s Creek Area, with 33 family-friendly campsites accessible by car; and the remote campground on the Long Arm Peninsula, which can only be reached by boat and is perfect for the adventurous at heart.
Click here for maps and more information on outdoor recreation at Lake James from the NC Division of Parks and Recreation.
Lake James is positioned at the base of the Linville Gorge, and in the right spot on the lake, boaters can view Shortoff Mountain, a quintessential Blue Ridge Mountain rock face.
Restaurants and Bars near Lake James
After a day of hiking, swimming or fishing at Lake James, visit Bear Creek Marina Restaurant located on Lake James, or head to one of the nearby small towns to enjoy a tasty meal. Here are some of our favorites:
- Fonta Flora Brewery at Whipporwill Farm is just minutes away from the lake and is a great spot for local brews and food truck fare after a day on the lake or on the trails.
- Elliotts Diner is an old-fashioned, cozy diner in Nebo that has been family-owned for almost 30 years. Enjoy Southern comfort food, sandwiches, sides, and desserts served with warm hospitality.
- If you’re craving Italian food, check out Roma Restaurant in Nebo. You can dine in or pick up their pizzas, pasta, lasagna, salads, and wings. Roma is also family-owned and has been in business for 15 years.
- Burrito Bros, located on Main Street in Marion, offers burritos stuffed with delicious ingredients (including a wide variety of grilled meats, from carnitas to shrimp to al pastor, as well as vegetarian options) all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas. They also serve tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, nachos, and more, all for affordable prices.
- Bantam Chef is a drive-thru burger joint in Marion that has been in business since 1971. Their steakburgers are beloved by locals – as is their “Big Foot Special” – and they also serve up gyros, seafood, salads, country breakfast, biscuits, and soft-serve ice cream.
Bear Creek Marina Restaurant is located on Lake James, and offers pub food with great outdoor seating.
Real Estate in Lake James, NC
When most people think about Lake James real estate, they think about being on the lake! But homes and lots for sale at Lake James offer much more than just the lake. This lakeshore community also features homes and land with views of the water and mountains, private boat docks, walking trails, gated neighborhoods, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Lake James Frequently Asked Questions
What cities and towns are near Lake James NC?
Nearby towns include Nebo, Marion, Old Fort, Black Mountain, Asheville and Morganton.
Can you live on Lake James NC?
Yes. There are lakefront homes for sale on Lake James, as well as lots for sale where you could build a custom home.
Is a lake house a good investment in NC?
Yes. Whether you use it as a family vacation home or a rental property, a lake house on beautiful Lake James is an investment that will pay off for years to come.
Can you swim in Lake James NC and is it clean?
Yes, Lake James is clean and safe to swim in. Swimming is allowed within a set area between May and September.
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