Fun and Recreation around the Lake

Water and nature invite outdoor enthusiasts

BY RENEE ROBERSON WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY SARAH QUINN

Some of the things that attract so many people to the Lake Norman area are the mild temperatures, four seasons and abundance of recreational activities. Here are a few suggestions for outdoor recreation.

At the northern most point in Troutman, there’s Lake Norman State Park, an ideal place to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and go running or mountain biking. The 1,328-acre park includes 13 miles of shoreline along the northeastern shore of Lake Norman. There is a 125-yard beach and public swimming area, which is supervised by lifeguards seasonally, as well as a concession stand, showers, restrooms and changing stalls.

Lake Norman has a great public park system that will never leave you bored. In Cornelius, Ramsey Creek Park is a 43acre waterfront park with boat-launching areas, docks, a fishing pier and a public swimming beach. Visitors can rent large “funbrellas” to utilize on the waterfront picnic area. There are also picnic shelters, horseshoe pits, a volleyball court, a three-acre dog park, playground and nature trails. Jetton Park in Cornelius is a 104-acre park that has a beach area, wooden gazebos, a formal garden and a playground. There are also eight tennis courts and paved walking and biking trails, most of which wind through nicely shaded wooded areas. For a small fee, visitors can rent waterside picnic decks equipped with a grill and a table.

For those who love physical activity . . . Each town has a robust parks and recreation department that offers affordable classes and excursions, with many of them being outdoors. Many of the breweries also offer running and cycling clubs, yoga, paddling and other activities where you can socialize while getting in a workout.

For the nature-lovers . . .

Check out the Latta Plantation Center