Lake side house rentals in Lake Norman of Catawba

Just 20 miles north of Charlotte, Lake Norman of Catawba is a small town on the shore of Lake Norman, the largest human-made lake in North Carolina, and an ideal base camp for exploring the lake and surrounding countryside. Though the region was once primarily agricultural, the creation of Lake Norman in 1963 has transformed this rural stretch of southwestern North Carolina into a destination for fans of natural beauty.

The only public swimming beach in town is located in Lake Norman State Park, where paddle boat and surfboard rentals offer the opportunity to spend time out on the lake’s calm waters. At the nearby Latta Nature Preserve, you can explore nearly 16 miles of dog-friendly trails with breathtaking views of Mount Island Lake and Gar Creek. After a day of hiking, you can enjoy the buzzy local brewery scene, or check out live performances at local bars and music venues. You may want to spend a few afternoons in Cornelius, Davidson, or one of the other small towns surrounding the lake, where you’ll find arcades with bowling alleys, laser tag, and other activities.

Lake Norman of Catawba has four distinct seasons that each offer unique experiences. Spring tends to be mild, with ideal conditions for all the cultural events that occur between March and May, like the highland games celebrating the region’s Irish and Scottish heritage with traditional folk music and dancing, and the Lake Norman Art Festival, which occurs every April. When summer warms up the area, it’s a great time to go out on the lake or explore the trails, and if you visit in July, you’ll find community cookouts and firework shows around the lake.

As the colors of the leaves change, the lake celebrates with a Fall Festival in Huntersville, featuring a seven-acre corn maze with over two miles of labyrinthine paths. Cool weather and scattered snows descend on the lake in the winter.

Murray’s Mill Historic District

A short drive from town, you can experience the history of this area firsthand at Murray’s Mill. This milling complex from the late 19th century has been preserved and converted into a historical site. Since the mill closed operations in 1967, the mill, a general store, a period-preserved home, and a wheat house are now used as an exhibition of the region’s agricultural past.

Latta Nature Center

The Latta Nature Center and Preserve is home to a wide variety of attractions. The 13,000-square-foot Quest building houses an indoor interactive nature center for curious young visitors. Birdwatchers will appreciate the Carolina Raptor Center to observe the birds of prey that call this region home. Those looking for a more solitary experience of the nature preserve can wander along a dozen different trails or drift along the water in a kayak or canoe.

Robbins Park

Located in Cornelius, the eight-acre Robbins Park offers nearly three miles of paved and unpaved trails, two public fishing ponds, and a nature-themed playground for younger visitors to enjoy.