Topics Related to Lake James State Park

Become a water engineer! Learn why wetlands are important and what organisms live there. Practice engineering skills by constructing watershed models with our hands-on stream tables. Search for aquatic critters in water samples from Lake James waterways.

What make bobcats such good hunters? Why are coyotes hard to spot? How do beavers keep warm in cold water? Join us at the Catawba River Area to learn about the amazing adaptations of the animals that call Lake James home. Then, take a hike to see what wildlife you can find!

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation announced a new partnership with Waypoint Adventure, based in Black Mountain, N.C., to provide adaptive recreation programs for visitors with disabilities.
All North Carolina state parks west of Interstate 77 are closed through at least Oct. 31.
Crowders Mountain, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain and Lake Norman state parks, as well as Rendezvous Mountain, will reopen at least partially on Nov. 1.
Elk Knob, Lake James, New River, and Stone Mountain state parks will reopen at least partially on Nov. 15; three parks will remain closed until further notice and face long-term closures: Chimney Rock, Mount Mitchell, and South Mountains.
Join us at Lake James State Park for a NC Science Festival event.
State Parks Director Brian Strong provides additional information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.
Veterans with service-related disabilities are now eligible to apply to receive a free Annual Pass to North Carolina State Parks.
Carolina Beach, Hammocks Beach, Hanging Rock, Jockey's Ridge, Jones Lake, Lake James, Lake Norman, Morrow Mountain, and Pilot Mountain state parks; Falls Lake State Recreation Area; and Salmon Creek State Natural Area are hosting the paddling instruction events for National Safe Boating Week 2024.