Mountain Island Lake

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3,000 Acres Unveiled

Formed in 1924 by the Catawba River dam, Mountain Island Lake sprawls across 3,281 acres with a shoreline extending over 60 miles. Nestled on the western end, the lake encompasses a mountain turned island, inspiring its name.

Scenic Oasis, Untouched Waters

Just a short 30-minute drive from Charlotte, Mountain Island Lake proves to be a favored destination for residents and visitors alike. Charlotte offers a diverse range of family-friendly attractions, a vibrant nightlife, and an array of dining options, markets, and schools.

Within a 20-mile radius of the lake, four hospitals—BSA Caromont Health, Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Concentra Urgent Care, and Carolinas Health Care System—ensure accessible healthcare. Principal traffic corridors, I-85 and I-485, link to local connector roadways leading to the lake, and the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport lies a mere 15 miles away.

Recreational Paradise for All

Renowned for boating, water skiing, and fishing, Mountain Island Lake caters to water enthusiasts. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are also popular activities, supported by two public boat launches. Anglers can reel in catfish, bass varieties, white perch, and sunfish.

Nearly half of the lake is a designated park area, safeguarded by Mecklenburg, Lincoln, and Gaston Counties, along with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, ensuring a pristine natural setting.

Discover the Surroundings

The Historic Latta Plantation, situated on the lake’s eastern end, spans 1,150 acres and features historic buildings, the Carolina Raptor Center, and extensive hiking and cycling trails.

The US National Whitewater Center, bordering the Catawba River, offers white-water rafting, zip-lining, rock climbing, mountain biking, roping, and kayaking.

In Charlotte, attractions like Carowinds Theme Park, U.S. National Whitewater Center, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place Science, and the Billy Graham Library beckon.

Lakefront Living

Mountain Island Lake not only offers on-water enjoyment but also presents opportunities for off-water fun. With Charlotte in close proximity, it serves as an ideal locale for those working in the city or seeking the convenience of nearby shops.

Lake Information

  • Shoreline: 61 miles
  • Deepest Depth: 100 feet
  • Acreage: 3,281 acres
  • Water Level: Full Pool Year Round
  • Ownership: Public
  • Dam Managed By: Duke Energy
  • Dam Year Built: 1924
  • Public Boat Ramps: 2
  • Counties: Gaston County, Lincoln County, Mecklenburg County
  • Fish: Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass
  • Condos Available: Yes
  • Notable Events: We Love Mountain Island Lake Day,
  • Landmarks: :Historic Latta Plantation Park

  • Permit is not required to use the lake.
    Jet skis are allowed.
    Motorized boats are allowed.
    Houseboats are allowed.
    Boating restrictions (Yes). — https://www.duke-energy.com/Community/Lakes (See must register boat)
    Dock restrictions (Yes). — must obtain permit (See https://www.duke-energy.com/Community/Lakes)

    • Resources Nearby

    Charlotte Douglas International Airport

    Phone: (704) 359-4013
    Address: 5501 R C Josh Birmingham Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28208

    Concord Regional Airport

    Phone: (704) 920-5900
    Address: 9000 Aviation Blvd NW, Concord, NC 28027

    Glenwood Acres RV Park

    Phone: (704) 455-9282
    Address: 4632 Delrae Cir Concord, NC 28027

    Ver-El RV Park and Campground

    Phone: (704) 769-0248
    Address: 5650 Sandusky Blvd Concord, NC 28027

    Green Meadows Golf Course

    Phone: (704) 827-9264
    Address: 957 Kelly Rd Mt Holly, NC 28120

    Sunset Hills Public Golf Course

    Phone: (704) 399-0980
    Address: 800 Radio Rd Charlotte, NC 28216

    Riverside Marina

    Phone: (704) 800-6004
    Address: 1500 River Dr Belmont, NC 28012

    Tailrace Marina

    Phone: (704) 827-0000
    Address: 1000 Marina Village Dr Mt Holly, NC 28120

    CaroMont Regional Medical Center

    Phone: (980) 834-2266
    Address: 451 E Charlotte Ave Mt Holly, NC 28120