Last updated: September 3, 2025
Place
Lake James State Park Visitor Center
NC State Parks
Quick Facts
Location:
Nebo North Carolina
Significance:
A stop along the Overmountain Victory NHT
Designation:
North Carolina State Park
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
5 listed
Beach/Water Access, Boat Ramp, Dock/Pier, Restroom, Tent Campsites
September 30, 1780
As they made their separate ways down the mountain, Campbell’s militia and the combined militias of Sevier, Shelby and McDowell were often just a few miles apart. Both of their paths lead through what is now Lake James State Park, and actually through Lake James itself. (Some of the historic traces are underwater, as the lake is manmade and was created between 1912 and 1923.) Their paths converged in this area as they finished their journey to Quaker Meadows in what is now Morganton, NC.
There is a 2.3 mile certified section of OVNHT at Lake James. The western end of the trail connects to the 1780 community trail, which is 1 mile long. There are also many other multi-use trails, a swimming area and multiple campsites at Lake James State Park.
Located in Burke and McDowell counties in North Carolina, 50 miles northeast of Asheville, Lake James State Park includes two areas to access this picturesque lake that is perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing. Campsites at both Catawba River and Paddy's Creek accesses provide an opportunity to spend the night by the lake, with some sites accessible only by paddling. Trails include bike trails at Paddy's Creek, the kid-friendly Holly Discovery Trail, the historic Overmountain Victory Trail, and the Fonta Flora State Trail.