Lake Norman

Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in our state, coming into existence when Duke Energy began building Cowan's Ford Dam in 1959 on the Catawba River Chain. This beautiful lake boasts 520 miles of shoreline and a surface area of more than 32,475 acres in parts of four counties. Lake Norman experiences include vibrant sunsets, dining on the waterfront, cruises, regattas, and of course - possible sightings of Normie, the Lake Norman Monster! Our Inland Sea features plenty of outdoor fun and recreation such as fishing, boating, skiing, paddle and wake-boarding, swimming, biking, and hiking trails.