High Rock Lake

About High Rock Lake

It is North Carolina's second largest reservoir, covering 15,180 acres, and the largest freshwater lake in the United States and the only one of its kind to cover the entire state. The lake, named after the neighbouring High Rock, begins at the confluence of the Yadkin and South Yadkins rivers. It is 18 km long, with a maximum depth of 300 m and a surface of 2,500 acres.

Built in 1928 for hydropower, the lake now offers residents and visitors many recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and kayaking, as well as recreation.

Long considered one of the state's best fishing lakes, High Rock Lake hosted the Bassmasters Classic in 1994, 1995, 1997 and 2007. Whether you are a hobby angler or a professional, the lake is certainly a great opportunity to catch the fish you have always dreamed of. Best known for its flathead, whitefish, bluefish, redfish, Valais, pike, yellowfin tuna and whitefish. Other popular wild fish are bluebells and blackbirds, as well as black perch and redhead.

Several boat ramps and marinas surround the 365-mile long shores of the lake, allowing visitors to launch their own boats. High Rock Lake has no size or speed restrictions for boats, and you will see a wide variety of sizes, sizes and speeds for all types of boats, from small to large, as well as large.

Swimmers are also welcome on the lake, and since High Rock is the first in a chain of lakes, the water is murkier than one might be used to, but there is no need to worry. If you don't have a boat, don't worry, you can rent a kayak, canoe, paddle board or even a small boat for $10 a day. Once you have your boat in the water, grab a tube or water ski and enjoy an exciting ride. The water is absolutely safe and refreshing, with plenty of fresh water and a wide range of water sports, from kayaking to paddling to canoeing.

The High Rock Lake dam is managed by Alcoa Power, and during droughts, water levels can drop even further. The average winter break can be extended by one metre before winter rain fills the lake, but during a drought the water level can drop even further.

With a full pool, High Rock Lake is 655 feet above sea level, and the minimum height for hydroelectric power is 594 feet.

Fluctuations in the water level have a significant impact on the recovery and cause significant damage to the infrastructure of the lake.

Camping on the shore of the lake is possible, where tents, boat moorings and boat ramps are available. A petting zoo, picnic area, amphitheater and water park are offered at High Rock Lake, as well as a boat ramp and parking.

In neighboring Lexington, North Carolina, there is a water park of its own, High Rock Lake Park. With over 100,000 visitors a year, the city prides itself on its natural beauty, scenic views and friendly people.