Public Boat Access at Lake James is Closed

RALEIGH --The Canal Bridge boat access at Lake James State Park has been closed due to low water levels prompted by drought conditions, according to the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation.

Currently, there is no public boat access on the 6,510-acre lake in Burke and McDowell counties. Lake James State Park ramps at Hidden Cove and the Linville River were closed in August and the Black Bear Access was closed in October.

'The water level has dropped significantly at Lake James to 12 feet below full pond,' said Park Superintendent Sean McElhone. 'With the extremely low water levels, the boat ramps become exposed and unsafe to use.'

Park staff will continue to monitor the situation, but the ramps will remain closed until there is sufficient rainfall to raise the water level, McElhone said. For more information, call the park office at (828) 652-5047.