10 Beautiful Lakes to Visit in the Appalachian Mountains

By Mwanner – Wikimedia

10 Beautiful Lakes to Visit in the Appalachian Mountains

The Appalachian Mountains often referred to as the Appalachians, is a range of mountains in the east coast of the United States.

These mountains were formed approximately 500 million years ago during the Ordovician period and are in 14 state and southern Canada.

These mountains have undergone natural erosion over the years which have reduced its height. They used to be as tall as the Alps and the Rocky Mountains.

Some several glassy lakes and rivers have their sources in these mountains. During summer, many tourists and locals alike flock to the lakes for refreshing moments.

You can opt to go fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking or cruise the lakes on a boat. Whatever way you plan on spending your time by or on these lakes, two things are certain, relaxation and fun.

With that said, here are the 10 beautiful lakes to visit at the Appalachian Mountains.

1. Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

By Mwanner – Wikimedia

Lake Jocassee is found in South Carolina’s Devils Fork State Park. This lake gets its water from several streams and waterfalls in the park. The water here favours trout fish since it is cool.

There are several hiking trails along the shores of the lake which occupies at least 9000 acres of land. The trails will lead you to the many streams and waterfalls that feed this lake.

Lake Jocassee is popularly referred to as the most beautiful in the Carolinas. Scuba diving is another favourite activity that most swimmer love because of the clear water.

2. Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

This next lake is commonly referred to as the jewel of Virginia. It extends to three counties namely Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania. The lake boasts of one of the longest shorelines and beautiful scenery in the Appalachians.

Popular activities here include biking on the well maintained designated bike trails, hiking, fishing and camping.

Smith Mountain Lake is manmade after a dam was created in 1963 to control floods. It is home to several striped bass fish and hosts fishing tournaments in the region.

Activities: Swimming, Motor Boating, Kayaking/Canoeing, Sailing, Parasailing, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Water Skiing/Wake Boarding, Jet Skiing

3. Lake Gaston, Bracey

By Domenic R. Merenda – Wikimedia

Lake Gaston lies in the border between Virginia and North Carolina. It occupies at least 20,000 acres of land, with a shoreline of about 350 miles.

This lake is popular for water skiing, swimming, wakeboarding, canoeing and kayaking. From the Virginia side, guests here can access the lake through Holly Grove marina or DGIF boat launch near Tanglewood shores.

There are boats and kayaks available to rent and camping facilities by the lake. Close to the lake is Rosemont Winery open all year round for tastings and other events.

This lake was formed as part of a hydroelectric reservoir with the main dam being on the North Carolina side.

Activities: boat rides, fishing

4. Kerr Lake, Virginia

By Bud Davis – Wikimedia

Kerr Lake is Virginia’s largest lake, and one of the largest on the eastern region.  The land around this lake is undeveloped, giving visitors miles upon miles of beautiful shoreline. Another gem by this lake is the John H. Kerr Dam, the 4th largest in the United States.

This lake is a hydroelectric reservoir and also a flood control lake. The lake has varying levels depending on the season, its standard level is 300 feet above sea level.

You can still access the water from the docks which are floating and therefore adjust with the water levels.

Water sports enthusiasts enjoy the massive waterways of this lake as well as quiet coves for those that want a quiet time.

Kerr Lake was named the number 1 crappie fishing lake by Fisherman magazine in the US, moreover, the lake hosts several national fishing tournaments annually.

Activities: Swimming, Motor Boating, Kayaking/Canoeing, Sailing, Fishing, Water Skiing/Wake Boarding, Jet Skiing, Paddleboarding.

5. Sherando Lake, Lyndhurst

This next lake is fairly small compared to those earlier mentioned. It sits on just 24 acres but has loads of fun activities for all its guests. While on land, you can follow the hiking trail through the treelined shoreline.

The shore of this lake is perfect for sunbathing during sunny days. You can opt to swim in the lake, relax by the beach and clean up at the showers available at the park’s bathhouse.

Close to this gem is the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and the world-famous Blue Ridge Parkway. You can venture into these parks for nature walks and hikes.

Activities: Camping, Swimming, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, fishing.

6. Lake James, North Carolina

This lake found in North Carolina is under lake James state park. Being within a park, there are several outdoor recreation activities that you can engage in.

The activities include paddling, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.

This lake has more than 150 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by four earthen dams. During spring and summer, you will find beautiful wildflowers such as Jack-in-the-pulpit, passionflower, Indian pipe and cardinal flower.

There are wildlife and birds that live near the lake like the Deer, flying squirrel, red and Gray fox, rabbit, muskrat, mink, green heron, belted kingfisher, mallard and Canadian geese.

Be sure to check out Paddy’s Creek and Catawba River.

7. Fontana Lake, North Carolina

By Brian Stansberry – Wikimedia

Fontana Lake is found at the heart of the Smoky Mountains and has one of the highest dams east of the Rockies. The lake has more than 200 miles of shoreline filled with beautiful scenery.

You can take tours of the dam and learn about its construction during the 1940s. this information is available at the Tennessee Valley authority Visitor Centre.

Other than the natural beautiful scenery, you can go for hikes, paddling, fishing, or camping. The trail shelter has hot showers for campers and hikers that need to freshen up.

8. Hungry Mother Lake, Marion VA

This lake is part of Hungry Mother State Park. It has a sandy beach, bathhouse, boat launch, fishing pier, and campgrounds.

The hiking and biking trails cover a total of more than 17 miles through the forested shores. Along the way, you may spot different local wildlife.

Most of the land that makes up this park was donated by local landowners to develop a new state park. It was officially opened to the public in 1936. The park is made up of both forested land and a lake.

Activities: Camping, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking/Canoeing, Fishing, Non-gasoline powered boating.

9. Summersville Lake, Nicholas County, West Virginia

By Ken Thomas – Wikimedia

This nest lake is enclosed by the stunning Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. the Lake provides the perfect vacation destination for campers, hikers and nature lovers.

The lake came about as a reservoir for a nearby river dam. Summerville Lake currently has 60 miles of shoreline visited by millions of tourists annually.

You can rent a cabin or a kayak and explore the lake or just enjoy the quiet coves and rising cliffs on this beautiful lake.

Recreational activities at this lake include fishing, swimming and boating. Amenities available here are a full-service marina, an airport and a public beach area.

10. Nantahala Lake – Franklin, North Carolina

Locally known as Land of the Noon Day Sun, this Lake is a playground of summertime fun for locals and tourists alike. Like most lakes in the Appalachian range, Lake Nantahala was built to serve as a hydroelectric reservoir.

It is a major source of power in the region and is regulated and maintained by Duke power.

Many tourists that visit this lake enjoy a myriad of activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, fishing and hiking to Nantahala gorge and river.

There are several cabins, lodges and vacation homes by this lake that gives you a comfortable and serene vacation.