Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, located just north of Charlotte and primarily within Iredell County, with parts extending into Mecklenburg and Catawba counties. Below is some key information regarding Lake Norman and its vicinity, particularly in Mooresville, North Carolina:

General Information
- Size: Lake Norman covers approximately 32,475 acres and has around 520 miles of shoreline.
- Creation: The lake was created in the 1960s by the construction of the Cowans Ford Dam on the Catawba River by Duke Energy.
- Purpose: While it primarily serves as a reservoir for hydropower, it also provides water supply, recreational opportunities, and flood control.

Mooresville
- Location: Mooresville is a town situated on the northern shore of Lake Norman and is often referred to as "Race City USA" due to its transportation industry and proximity to NASCAR teams.
- Growth: Over the years, Mooresville has experienced significant growth, transitioning from a small town to a thriving suburban community. It offers a mix of residential areas, businesses, and recreational venues.

Recreational Activities
- Water Sports: The lake is popular for a variety of water-based activities, including boating, sailing, fishing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and swimming.
- Fishing: Lake Norman hosts an array of fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers. Species include largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish.
- Parks and Marinas: There are numerous parks along the shoreline, including Jetton Park, Ramsey Creek Park, and more, providing amenities for picnicking, hiking, and public boat ramps.

Amenities and Attractions
- Dining and Shopping: Mooresville features various dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, alongside shopping centers and local boutiques.
- Lakeside Events: The town hosts several events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers' markets, and concerts, often taking advantage of the scenic waterfront views.
- NASCAR and Motorsports: Mooresville is home to several NASCAR teams, shops, and museums, making it a draw for motorsports enthusiasts.

Living in the Area
- Real Estate: The area has seen a rapid increase in housing developments, with a variety of options from waterfront homes to suburban neighborhoods.
- Schools: Mooresville has several educational institutions and is served primarily by the Mooresville Graded School District.

Lake Norman and Mooresville offer a unique blend of outdoor recreation, community amenities, and a vibrant lifestyle, making it a popular choice for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in water sports, motorsports, or simply enjoying a pleasant lakeside atmosphere, Lake Norman has something to offer everyone.

Are Jet Skis permitted on Lake Norman? Yes

Can you Swim in Lake Norman? You can swim in the lake however there is only a few access points open to the public,

What is the Water Quality at Lake Norman? Very Good

What is the Average water level variance at Lake Norman? 20 feet

Are Boat Docks permitted at Lake Norman? Yes there are many boat docks however if you buy land that doesn’t have one you do have to go through a process to see if that particular lot will be allowed to have one and how big it can be.

Are Power Boats permitted at Lake Norman? Yes the lake is primarily powerboats however there are lots of sailboats, antique boats, fishing boats, jet ski’s and even sea planes. There are two air parks on the lake.

What is the Lake Depth at Lake Norman? Some areas are as deep as 100 feet

What are the Nearby Cities to Lake Norman? Charlotte is the main city nearby however the main one however it is not on the lake. Mooresville (Race City – known for NASCAR) is one, Cornelius, Huntersville, Davidson, Sherrill’s Ford, Denver, Troutman and Statesville all surround the lake.

What is the Closest Airport to Lake Norman? Charlotte Airport is about an hour from Mooresville at close to the top of the lake however it is about 30 minutes from the bottom of the lake.

What are the Building restrictions at Lake Norman? There are many restrictions that are either from Duke Energy that owns the lake as well as restrictions based on a Home Owners Association that a home or property may be in.

Lake Norman
Fishing Information

Popular game fish in Lake Norman include crappie, bluegill and yellow perch, as well as striped, largemouth and white bass. The smaller park lake also has some choice fishing spots. Regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission apply for both lakes.

Terrell Bait & Tackle Shop 828-478-2024, Sheirrle Ford & Highway 150, Terrell, NC 28682

Stutts Bait & Tackle Shop 704-664-3106, 571 Stutts Rd, Mooresville, NC

Tackle Town 704-483-1007, 786 N Highway 16, Denver, NC

Lake Norman
Boating Information

Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent from the swimming area bathhouse at the Lake Norman State Park (www.ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/lano/home.html). Boats are available daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the summer and from noon to 5 p.m. on some weekends in spring and fall. Privately owned boats and watercraft may access Lake Norman from the boat launch area located at the south end of the park. Use of the area is free, but cars must leave the parking area by the park's closing time.

Lake Norman Sailing Club 704-483-3005, 1887 Yacht Club Dr, Denver, NC

Duke's Marina 704-663-7292, 1479 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117-9099

Lake Norman Marina Inc 704-892-1775, 18901 Statesville Rd # A, Cornelius, NC

Midway Marina 828-478-2333, 8693 Nc Highway 150 E, Terrell, NC 28682-8711

Inland Sea Marina 704-664-4414, 899 Commodore Rd, Mooresville, NC 28115

Boat Rack (Boat Dealer and Marina) 828-478-2118, 7865 Spinnaker Bay Dr, Sherrills Ford, NC

Boat Connection (Boat Storage, Repair and Dealer 704-489-2700, 5142 Slanting Bridge Rd, Denver, NC

Mountain Creek Marina 704-483-0077, 7515 Stonewall St, Sherrills Ford, NC

Aaa-O Saltshaker Yacht Charter 704-892-5990, 398 Stonemarker Rd, Mooresville, NC

Lake Norman
Camping Information

(Lake Norman State Park) Family Tent/Trailer Camping: Tent pads, picnic tables and grills are available at 33 sites on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee. Occupancy is limited to one family or six people per site. Park gates are locked at the posted closing hours. Campers may not leave the park after closing or before 8 a.m. except in an emergency.

Group Tent Camping: Walk-in group campsites may be reserved by organized groups for a fee. Campers without reservations must confirm site availability with park staff before occupying a site. No more than 25 people are permitted on each site. Drinking water and restrooms are available nearby; picnic tables and a fire ring are provided at each site.

Wildlife Woods Campground 704-483-5611, Nc Highway 150, Sherrills Ford, NC

Drum's Family Camp 828-478-2458, 3531 Mount Pleasant Rd, Sherrills Ford, NC

Duke Power State Park 704-528-6350, 159 Inland Sea Dr, Troutman, NC

Holiday Land Marina & Campground 704-483-5746, 2862 Hilton Ln, Denver, NC

Ramsey Creek Park 704-892-7852, 18441 Nantz Rd, Huntersville, NC

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation http://ils.unc.edu/parkproject/ncparks.html

Lake Norman
Local Area Businesses

The towns and communities in Lake Norman are thriving with life and enthusiasm, making Lake Norman the ideal place to live, work, and especially play. Lakefront communities, golf course living, and a small town atmosphere all add up to an unmatched quality of Carolina life.

Mooresville Golf Center 704-664-3200, 622 Bluefield Rd, Mooresville, NC

Point Lake Golf Club 704-662-7985, 2214 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC

Lakes With Lake Houses For Sale within 25 miles:

Catawba River - Iredell County
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Lake Lookout
Lake Rhodhiss
Lake Wylie
Mountain Island Lake
Rankin Lake