Wildcat Lake

Address

Hickory Nut Gap Road
Banner Elk, NC 28604

Contact

Description

Owned and operated by Lees-McRae College, Wildcat Lake is a premier attraction in Banner Elk. The 13-acre lake includes a white sand beach and fishing dock.

Many people say Wildcat Lake reminds them of an old-fashioned swimming hole, and it draws thousands of visitors each summer.

The most popular activities at Wildcat Lake are swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and paddling. Lifeguards are on duty during summer hours. Boating is limited to non-motorized boats, such as canoes and kayaks.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission stocks the lake with bluegill, largemouth bass, and three varieties of trout. Fishing is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk, and North Carolina state fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish.

An adjacent park (Tufts Memorial Park) has a playground and picnic areas. Four pavilions with tables are available to rent for $50 a day. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited.

The park is open seven days a week, weather permitting. The lake is open for swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with professional lifeguards provided by the Williams YMCA of Avery County on duty.

Reservations for use of the pavilions are necessary and can be made by emailing: wildcatlake@lmc.edu

For hours and more info about Wildcat Lake, click here

[Related content: For other outdoor fun in Banner Elk, click here]

 

  • Families enjoy swimming and relaxing on the beach at Wildcat Lake in Banner Elk
  • Banner Elk swimming hole NC Mountains
  • Families enjoy swimming and relaxing on the beach at Wildcat Lake in Banner Elk
  • Banner Elk swimming hole NC Mountains

Description

Owned and operated by Lees-McRae College, Wildcat Lake is a premier attraction in Banner Elk. The 13-acre lake includes a white sand beach and fishing dock.

Many people say Wildcat Lake reminds them of an old-fashioned swimming hole, and it draws thousands of visitors each summer.

The most popular activities at Wildcat Lake are swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and paddling. Lifeguards are on duty during summer hours. Boating is limited to non-motorized boats, such as canoes and kayaks.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission stocks the lake with bluegill, largemouth bass, and three varieties of trout. Fishing is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk, and North Carolina state fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish.

An adjacent park (Tufts Memorial Park) has a playground and picnic areas. Four pavilions with tables are available to rent for $50 a day. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited.

The park is open seven days a week, weather permitting. The lake is open for swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with professional lifeguards provided by the Williams YMCA of Avery County on duty.

Reservations for use of the pavilions are necessary and can be made by emailing: wildcatlake@lmc.edu

For hours and more info about Wildcat Lake, click here

[Related content: For other outdoor fun in Banner Elk, click here]

 

Address

Hickory Nut Gap Road
Banner Elk, NC 28604

Contact