We are waiting for sunset to start this activity designed to complement our Kids in the Creek program. Catch sheets will be used to collect and identify different species of adult aquatic insects. These species are the same macroinvertebrates that are found in the creeks that flow into Lake James. A discussion of macroinvertebrate lifecycles and fun facts will be included with our collecting activities. We'll meet at the Paddy's Creek Area bathhouse breezeway at 8:30 p.m. and the program will end by 9:30 p.m.
Events and Programs
Park Maps and Brochures:
Mountain Bike Trails are OPEN today
Mountain bike trails are OPEN today, July 19th. The direction of the bike trails has changed. Wimba trails will be going in a counter clockwise direction, and Tindo trails will be going in a clockwise direction. If date is more than 24 hours old, please call the park office at 828-584-7728 for the latest information.
Last updated on: Friday, July 19, 2019 Beach and Boat Rental Hours
The beach at Paddy's Creek is open for the season from 10-6 each day. Boats are rented out of the concession stand from 10-4:30. Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals are $7.00 per hour.
Last updated on: Wednesday, June 26, 2019Events and Programs
Lake James State Park offers a variety of learning opportunities for all ages. Typically led by park rangers, these interpretive programs allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina state parks naturally wonderful.
Most of the events are free, though some require pre-registration. All give park visitors deeper insight into the natural world. Call the park office for more information.
Date of Event:
Thu, 07/25/2019 - 8:30pm to 9:30pm
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area bathhouse breezeway
The waters and shoreline of Lake James is bursting with life and there’s no better way to explore than by boat. Park Ranger Clay Veasey will be your captain and guide aboard the park patrol boat as we search for ospreys, otters, eagles and scenic vistas. The weather could be hot and muggy, so be sure to watch the forecast and dress appropriately for the day (remember it’s always cooler out on the water) if you are one of the eight lucky participants. Registration is required and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the park office at 828-584-7728 to reserve your spot. Meet at the Paddy’s Creek Area East Picnic Shelter at 9:45 a.m. for a briefing and prompt 10 a.m. departure.
Date of Event:
Fri, 07/26/2019 - 10:00pm to 11:15pm
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area East Picnic Shelter
Learn basic information about watersheds and the Catawba River Basin through hands-on demos, games and craft activities. This program is designed to increase understanding of how, where and why water flows the way it does and discusses how human impacts and stewardship influences this most-valuable resource. Meet in the Catawba River Area basement classroom at 10 a.m. The program will be held rain or shine.
Date of Event:
Thu, 08/01/2019 - 10:00am to 11:00am
Start Location:
Catawba River Area basement classroom
The waters and shoreline of Lake James is bursting with life and there’s no better way to explore than by boat. Park Ranger Clay Veasey will be your captain and guide aboard the park patrol boat as we search for ospreys, otters, eagles and scenic vistas. The weather could be hot and muggy, so be sure to watch the forecast and dress appropriately for the day (remember it’s always cooler out on the water) if you are one of the eight lucky participants. Registration is required and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the park office at 828-584-7728 to reserve your spot. Meet at the Paddy’s Creek Area East Picnic Shelter at 9:45 a.m. for a briefing and prompt 10 a.m. departure.
Date of Event:
Wed, 08/07/2019 - 10:00am to 11:15am
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area West Picnic Shelter
Join us for a hike along the Paddy's Creek Trail to discover the world of six-legged insects. We will explore what makes organisms hexapods and the unique features that distinguish the different insect families, all while hunting for specimens from the different groups. Meet at the Holly Discovery Trail parking lot at 10 a.m.
Date of Event:
Thu, 08/08/2019 - 10:00am to 11:00am
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area Holly Discovery Trail parking lot
7321 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
828-584-7728
lake.james@ncparks.gov
GPS: 35.750378, -81.892075
Day-use areas at Paddy's Creek and Catawba River:
December - February: 7am - 7pm
March, April & October: 7am - 9pm
May - September: 7am - 10pm
November: 7am - 8pm
Hidden Cove Boat Access Hours:
December - February: closed
March, April, & October: 7am - 8pm
May - September: 7am - 9pm
November: 7am - 7pm
All areas closed Christmas Day
Swim Area
10am - 6pm
May 1 through September 30