Lake James State Park

Only 98 miles away, Lake James State Park is a great getaway from Charlotte, NC. Lake James State Park has two main tributaries; the Paddy's Creek and the Catawba River. Driving around in the Paddy's Creek area you will be welcomed by a cool wood constructed bridge, a swimming and picnic areas, easy access to shore fishing along Lake James, and a nice scenic view of Linville Gorge, Shortoff Mountain, and in the distance Table Rock. I saw a family of deer as well. Within the Catawba River area is where the primitive tent camping is located. Site 4 is absolutely the best camp site with an awesome view and being secluded. After packing in three bundles of firewood (NC wood) for a 1/4 mile, I learned that LJSP offers $3 for all you can burn firewood only 20 yards away from the campsite. I hiked the Lake Channel Overlook Trail ( .5 miles ) and the Sandy Cliffs Overlook Trail ( 1.5 miles ). Going off trail I found a nice beach area where Bailey can go crazy running around like mad. It's now 6pm and Dad just arrived. After an inch thick pork chop, beans, and mash potatoes, it's time to kick back by the fire and enjoy the star lit night. I slept pretty good even with dad snoring a little, Bailey warming my feet inside my sleeping bag, and a cool breeze blowing inside the tent. Dad gets up to hot water boiling, a fire going, and breakfast already started. We then go exploring some nearby sights where my Dad grew up as a teenager. Now it's time to go fishing. I have to say this is a wonderful way to spend the weekend.

Total: 4 miles                                  WNC Parks: 5                                  Deer: 3

Three Deer

Paddy's Creek heading into Lake James

Wood Constructed Bridge

Linville Gorge, Shortoff Mtn, Table Rock

View from Campsite 4

Bailey on the beach area

Bailey off the chain

Campsite 4

Shortoff Mtn

Fishing

Bailey swimming and Dad sleeping

Paddy's Creek

Deer

Me