Fees/FAQs/Rules
Park Maps and Brochures:
Upcoming Events:
Mountain bike trails are closed today due to winter weather conditions. Plese contact Park Office at 828-584-7728 for further information.
Last updated on: Sunday, December 16, 2018The Canal Bridge Access Area and boat ramps will be closed the week of December 17, 2018, for courtesy dock improvement. The site is expected to reopen by December 22.
The Hidden Cove Access Area and boat ramps will continue to operate under normal gate hours during this time. Please contact the park at 828-584-7728 or lake.james@ncparks.gov with any questions.
Last updated on: Thursday, December 13, 2018The Catawba River and Paddy's Creek areas are now open. Use extreme caution as hazards still remain due to snow and ice. Watch your footing on trails and walkways and beware of falling trees and branches. Please do not attempt to park at locked gates and walk in. Staff need to access the park and any vehicles parked at or blocking gates will be issued citations. Please be patient as we work diligently to clear the roads. Thank you for your cooperation. Be safe.
Last updated on: Thursday, December 13, 2018There are no entrance fees to enjoy the park. In addition to park-specific rules, please read the systemwide Park Rules for all North Carolina State Parks.
Swimming Area
Restrooms, picnic tables and shelters and a concession stand are nearby.
Adults (age 13 and over): $5/day
Children (3-12): $4/day
The swimming area is available May 1 through September 30, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., every day.
Canoes and Kayaks
Canoes and kayaks are available for rental near the concession stand in the Paddy's Creek area. Canoes accommodate 2-3 people and kayaks accommodate 1. Minimum age to rent is 16.
They are available Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Dates are subject to change; call park office for current information.
Fees are $5 per hour.
Permits
Event permits. Some events—such as weddings, athletic contests, company parties, etc.—may require a Special Activity Permit. If you're unsure whether such a permit is necessary for your event, call the park office beforehand. You can download a Special Activity permit application or obtain one from the park office.
Research and collection permits. A permit is required for any project involving the collection, removal or disturbance of any natural or cultural resource of any state park unit and for projects that require placing monitoring equipment in any state park unit. Learn more about research and collection permits or fill out a permit application online.
A $25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.
Lake James State Park
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