Lake Norman State Park

Situated on the shores of the largest manmade lake in North Carolina, Lake Norman State Park offers plenty of opportunities for adventure both on and off the water. From swimming and fishing to hiking and mountain biking, the park offers a long list of options for anyone looking to get amongst the great outdoors.

Your pet is more than welcome to join you in Lake Norman State Park provided they're on a leash of no longer than six feet and under your control at all times. However, pets are not allowed in the swim area, beach buildings, or adjacent grassy hillsides, and must never be left unattended. By following these rules and remembering to always clean up after your pet, you can help ensure that Lake Norman State Park remains dog-friendly for many years to come.

With those pesky details out of the way, let's take a closer look at what this grrr-eat park has to offer. The swimming area is open year-round and is a lovely spot for a relaxing dip, and taking to the water on a pedal boat, kayak, paddleboard, or canoe is the perfect way to experience Lake Norman. Fishing is also popular and the lake features crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, and a variety of bass species.

Once you tire of water sports, you can set yourself up at one of the picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the woods, or just find a spot on the grass to soak up some sun. There are also a handful of walking trails worth exploring, with the 6.2-mile Lake Shore Trail well worth a look, while mountain bikers can tackle more than 30 miles of single-track on the Itusi Trail.

When you're looking for somewhere to rest your head, the park offers a family campground with 32 sites and a group campground during summer months. If you're ever in this part of the world, take your dog along and check it out.