Topics Related to Lake James State Park

Wild Mushroom Walk

August 30, 2025, 10am - 11am
Join us at Lake James State Park for a mushroom hike.

Lake Ecology and Engineering

April 27, 2025, 2:30pm - 4pm
Become a water engineer! Learn why wetlands are important and what organisms live there. Practice engineering skills by constructing watershed models with our hands-on stream tables. Search for aquatic critters in water samples from Lake James waterways.A sensory-friendly toolkit will be available for participants to use during the program as needed. This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival. Meet the Program Lead at the back patio of the Visitors Center in the Paddy's Creek Area. 

Animal Adaptations

April 19, 2025, 11am - 12pm
What make bobcats such good hunters? Why are coyotes hard to spot? How do beavers keep warm in cold water? Join us at the Catawba River Area to learn about the amazing adaptations of the animals that call Lake James home. Then, take a hike to see what wildlife you can find!This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival. 

N.C. State Parks Partners with Waypoint Adventure to Provide Adaptive Recreation Programs at Select Parks

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation announced a new partnership with Waypoint Adventure, based in Black Mountain, N.C., to provide adaptive recreation programs for visitors with disabilities.

State Parks Closures Through October, All Programming Canceled Across the State

All North Carolina state parks west of Interstate 77 are closed through at least Oct. 31.

Five Western N.C. State Parks to Reopen Nov. 1, Eight Parks to Remain Closed

Crowders Mountain, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain and Lake Norman state parks, as well as Rendezvous Mountain, will reopen at least partially on Nov. 1.

Additional Western N.C. State Parks to Reopen Nov. 15, Three State Parks Face Long-Term Closures

Elk Knob, Lake James, New River, and Stone Mountain state parks will reopen at least partially on Nov. 15; three parks will remain closed until further notice and face long-term closures: Chimney Rock, Mount Mitchell, and South Mountains.

A Letter From Our Director

State Parks Director Brian Strong provides additional information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.

New State Law Provides Free State Parks Annual Passes for Veterans with Disabilities

Veterans with service-related disabilities are now eligible to apply to receive a free Annual Pass to North Carolina State Parks.

North Carolina State Parks to Offer 'Kayaking 101' Classes with American Canoe Association, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Carolina Beach, Hammocks Beach, Hanging Rock, Jockey's Ridge, Jones Lake, Lake James, Lake Norman, Morrow Mountain, and Pilot Mountain state parks; Falls Lake State Recreation Area; and Salmon Creek State Natural Area are hosting the paddling instruction events for National Safe Boating Week 2024.