Lake Norman State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Located on the northern tip of a peninsula that juts between Lake Norman at Hicks Creek, the park preserves 1,943 acres and features access to the lake. Construction on the Cowans Ford Dam, which holds back the waters of the Catawba River, began in 1959 and was completed in 1964. It was the finishing touch for a project that sought to tame the unruly river while providing a power and water source for nearby communities and agriculture. Today, the park is an attraction that lures visitors nationwide for its beauty and abundant natural attractions. The park is popular during the summer heat, drawing visitors who enjoy water activities such as boating, angling, swimming, and water skiing.
Nearby Cities:
Troutman, NC
Statesville, NC
Charlotte, NC
Greensville, NC
Spring 48-71 F
Summer 66-86 F
Fall 50-71 F
Winter 32-53 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Lake Norman State Park
Campground Accommodations
Lake Norman State Park Campground
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet Friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 67 feet
Other Amenities: Fire rings, restrooms, hot showers, swim beach, boat ramp, boat rental, playground, picnic tables, dump station, lantern posts
Lake Norman State Park Campground
After playing all day in Lake Norman and biking miles and miles of trails, come stay at the park’s campground to rest and recharge. This peaceful, well-maintained campground has 33 spacious RV and tent camping sites with some hookups available. Rates per night are $23 for non-electric and $33 with electric.
Water hookup: Yes (limited)
Electrical hookup: Yes (limited)
Sewer hookup: Yes (limited)
Wifi: No
Pet friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Bathhouse with hot showers, charcoal grill, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood, hiking, fishing, swimming, dumping station, equipment rentals
Lake Norman Motorcoach Resort
Located on the shore of beautiful Lake Norman, this resort has 60 campsites with full hookups and unique accommodations. Grab a snack at the Tiki Bar, soak up the lakeside views from the deck, or borrow a paddleboard for some fun on the water. Rates start at $59 and vary based on season and site location.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wifi: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Cable TV hookup, bathhouse with private showers, laundry facility, Tiki Bar, charcoal grills, picnic tables, boat ramp, boat rentals
What to Do at
Lake Norman State Park
Since Lake Norman State Park is located on a peninsula sandwiched between Lake Norman and Hicks Creek, there is a variety of water activities available to enjoy in this recreation area. In addition, the forest offers excellent hiking and biking opportunities under the cover of its extensive canopy. The park also offers activities to learn more about the area, such as guided nature walks.
The selection of activities at Lake Norman State Park is nearly unlimited, ensuring you will find an adventure that appeals to you.
Inside Lake Norman State Park
Lake Norman is the star attraction of this park, offering visitors the chance to play in its waters or explore its surrounding areas by hiking and biking through almost 40 miles of trails. Ranger-led nature programs give visitors unique perspective into the natural wonders of North Carolina state parks from its geographical formations to diverse flora and fauna.
Here are more details on the park’s most popular activities:
Hiking and Biking - With almost 40 miles of trails, the park is ideal for hiking or mountain biking, with trails suited for all activity levels, whether that’s a challenging ride or leisurely stroll. The Itusi Trails has 30.5 miles of hiking and biking trails that loop through forests of pines and hardwoods. The Lake Shore Trail is a picturesque path with impressive views along the lakeshore.
Swimming - Go for a swim in the waters of Lake Norman or kick back and relax on the sandy beachfront. In the swim area, there is also access to a bathhouse, showers, and concession stand. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Fishing - As a warm water fishery, Lake Norman has plentiful fishing opportunities. Cast a line and try to catch fish like yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Fishing is available from the fishing pier, along the shoreline, or in a boat. Age 16+ must have a valid NC fishing license.
Boating - Lake Norman’s expansive waters are perfect for boating — whether you want to explore its waters in a kayak or launch a boat to go fishing. Equipment rentals are available in the marina for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. A public boat ramp is located at the southern end of the park.
Fishing
Lake Norman offers year-round angling. Common catches at the park include largemouth, striped bass, yellow and white perch, crappie, and channel catfish. Some species, like the channel catfish, reach trophy size. A North Carolina fishing license is required to enjoy this activity.
Geocaching
There are several geocaches at the park. You can find one with your smartphone, take a prize, and sign the logbook. You are also allowed to place a cache. To do so, you must apply for a permit, and you are only allowed to place them in designated areas.
Nature Watching
Lake Norman State Park visitors immerse themselves in nature. Families find the setting a calming and stimulating experience. Experience the towering trees, the fascinating undergrowth, the sound of a running creek, and lakefront views.
Stargazing
The night sky of Lake Norman State Park reveals a panorama of heavenly sights. You can view the stars from your campsite or head to the lake to see the stars reflected in the water.
Flora and Fauna
Pine and hardwood tree species tower over Lake Norman State Park. Gray squirrels run up and down the trunks and jump from limb to limb, while white-tailed deer, opossums, raccoons, red and gray foxes, and rabbits are commonly seen on the hiking trails. Two isolated islands support heron rookeries where over 25 nests are sheltered.
Hiking
Lake Norman State Park maintains over 35 miles of hiking trails. Two of these trials run along the waterways, providing spectacular views. Both the 6.1-mile Lake Norman Lakeshore Trail and the 4.1-mile Hawk Loop and Hicks Creek Loop travel across easy terrain and are great for family outings.
Biking
To preserve the natural qualities of its biking trails, Lake Norman State Park reverses its biking trial loops each year. With over 30 miles of biking trails, the park offers several biking loops, such as the moderately challenging 3.1-mile Norwood Loop Trail, which provides views from the heights above the lake and along the shoreline. Another splendid biking option is the 9.9-mile Laurel Loop trail that twists and turns on the hills above the water.
Boating
Whatever your boating pleasure, Lake Norman State Park provides places to enjoy it. Power boats, kayaks, canoes, tubes, and paddle boards are welcome on the lake. Regulations require wake-free boating while passing swimming areas.
Swimming
Lake Norman State Park features a fantastic swimming area. The 125-yard sandy beach has plenty of room to relax in the sun. It is also a great place for kids because the water is shallow along the shoreline, and they can play in the sand.
How to Get to
Lake Norman State Park
To get to the park from Charlotte, NC, head North on Interstate 277. Travel for 1.2 miles and turn right to take exit 5A onto Interstate 77 North. Drive for 30.4 miles. Take exit 42 toward Troutman. After driving for 0.3 miles, turn right onto the Charlotte Highway and go for 0.2 miles. When the highway turns into US-21 N, continue onto South Main Street in Troutman. Stay on the road for another 2.5 miles. Turn left onto Wagner Street for 0.8 miles when it becomes Perth Road. Travel another 0.7 miles and turn right onto State Park Road. Follow the signs for Lake Norman State Park.
Entering Lake Norman State Park
Parking is available near the entrance and swimming area. There are no parking fees or day-use fees at Lake Norman State Park.
If Lake Norman sounds like the perfect lakeside retreat, then start planning your trip! We’d love to hear all about your adventures, so tag us on social media or send your photos and stories to [email protected]. You might just end up on our blog or social media. Happy (RV) camping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Norman State Park
The park is open year-round, and the park’s attractions change with the season. However, many visitors feel that the best time to visit the park is during the summer to enjoy watersports.
Many visitors come to Lake Norman State Park to observe the birds at two isolated islands designated as heron rookeries. At the park, you will also see gray squirrels, white-tailed deer, opossums, raccoons, red and gray foxes, and rabbits.
There are 44 designated RV campsites in Lake Norman State Park. Of these, 11 offer full hookups.
While all RV camping sites can be reserved, they are not required. An RV campsite at the park costs $36 per night.
Pets are allowed at the park, and you can take them on the trails. They are not allowed on the swimming beach or inside any buildings.