Lake James State Park: Have you been craving some time on the water? Lake James State Park has just what you need! Bring your own boat or rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the expansive lake. Take a dip to cool off or toss out a line in search of largemouth bass. With hiking and mountain biking trails, campsites, and picturesque picnic spots, you won’t run out of ways to make the most of your time in the park.
Life is better by the lake. Lake James, a 6,812 acre reservoir, offers recreational activities and ample opportunities to simply revel in nature. Much of the land in this part of Burke County is protected and conserved, including 3,500 acre Lake James State Park, where you can enjoy mountain views while paddling, hiking, or biking. If you can’t get enough of the great outdoors, a Lake James home may be right for you!
Key Features
Diverse Housing Stock: The Lake James area includes a wide variety of housing, from rustic to modern. Whether transitional architecture speaks to you, or you prefer the allure of charming cottages, this area has homes to suit every taste.
Nest Picks
Fonta Flora Trail
Grab the family (and the dog!) and head out for an easy hike with beautiful views as you circle Lake James on the Fonta Flora Trail. With more than 20 miles of trails to explore, you can easily make a day of it out here in nature. Don't miss the covered bridge, a fabulous selfie spot!
Whippoorwill Farm
Whippoorwill Farm is the Lake James outpost of local favorite Fonta Flora Brewery. Enjoy a refreshing non-alcoholic hand zested seltzer, delicious slushie, or one of their many craft brews after hiking the new Fonta Flora trail, part of North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Try the Meemaw—brewed with cherries!
Camp Lake James
Located in the popular 1780 neighborhood, Camp Lake James is just like the summer camp you remember from growing up—but for all ages! Swimming, boating, s’mores, not to mention the fabulous amphitheatre...this is what summer is all about. Membership is required to take part in the adventure, but you don’t have to live here to become a member, and the camp offers inclusive rentals as well.