Wild yeasts and bacteria have been used for thousands of years by humans to preserve many different foods. From sourdough bread to pickles, wild yeasts were the unseen force that ruled over food preservation for generations before refrigeration. Join Ranger Wade Engels on a guided hike to discuss where wild yeasts live, how to capture them and how to use their powers of preservation. The program begins at the Catawba River Area breezeway at 10 a.m. and lasts approximately 1-and-1/2 hours.
Events and Programs
Contact the park
828-584-7728
lake.james@ncparks.gov
Addresses
Paddy's Creek access
7321 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7503, -81.8920
Catawba River access
and park office
2785 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7287, -81.9011
Mailing address
P.O Box 340
Nebo, NC 28761
Hidden Cove boat ramp
3381 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7301, -81.8908
Canal Bridge boat ramp
9182 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7394, -81.8863
Hours
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- December to February:
7:00am to 7:00pm
- March to April:
7:00am to 9:00pm
- May to September:
7:00am to 10:00pm
- October:
7:00am to 9:00pm
- November:
7:00am to 8:00pm
- Closed Christmas Day
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- open year-round
- 24-hour access
►
►
- May 1 to September 30:
10:00am to 6:00pm
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- Monday to Friday:
8:00am to 4:30pm
Mountain Bike Trails OPEN
Mountain bike trails, including the Linville River Fonta Flora access, are OPEN today, February 18. Please note that the directions have changed. The Wimba Trail is now counterclockwise, and the Tindo Trail is now clockwise.
If the date is more than 24 hours old, please call the park office at 828-584-7728 for the latest information.
Scheduled events
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:
Sat, 02/22/2020 - 10:00am
Start Location:
Catawba River Area breezeway
Many species of waterfowl, including ducks, grebes, loons and cormorants spend the winter months on Lake James and now you have an opportunity to observe them in their element. Ranger Jamie Cameron will be your captain and guide aboard the park patrol boat as we search for birds. The weather could be blustery, so be sure to dress warmly 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 your captain at the Paddy's Creek Area, East Picnic Shelter at 1:45 p.m. for a briefing prior to departure promptly at 2 o’clock.
Date of Event:
Sat, 02/22/2020 - 1:45pm
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area East Picnic Shelter
It’s a rare opportunity for members of the public to have the chance to visit the historic cemetery on Long Arm Peninsula. Before the area became part of Lake James State Park in 2005 it was long held in private ownership. As new park facilities are developed to access and enjoy this beautiful area, the park staff is excited to provide this experience to walk among the tombstones. Meet Ranger Clay Veasey at the Paddy’s Creek Area bathhouse breezeway at 10 a.m. and we’ll caravan to the cemetery from there.
Date of Event:
Fri, 02/28/2020 - 10:00am
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area bathhouse breezeway
Lake James hosts many species of waterfowl during the winter months, as well as the critters that stay here year-round. As an added bonus, winter offers some of the most majestic views of the Linville Gorge and the Black Mountain Range of the year. Ranger Clay Veasey will be your captain and guide aboard the park patrol boat as we search for loons, otters, eagles and scenic vistas. The weather could be blustery, so be sure to dress warmly 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:
Sat, 02/29/2020 - 9:45am
Start Location:
Paddy's Creek Area East Picnic Shelter
Do you think you have what it takes to join the prestigious ranks of the North Carolina State Park Junior Rangers? If you do, the rangers at Lake James State Park want you! The Junior Ranger program is for kids ages 6-12 who have an interest in nature and stewardship. Join Park Ranger Jamie Cameron to receive your Junior Ranger workbook and participate in several activities that will put you well on your way towards earning your Junior Ranger certificate at patch. We’ll meet at the Paddy’s Creek Area bathhouse breezeway at 10 a.m. You must pre-register for this program by calling the park office at 828-584-7728.
Date of Event:
Sat, 03/07/2020 - 10:00am
Start Location:
Paddys Creek Area bathhouse
Park Maps and Brochures:
