Escape the city at this family-friendly state park. 
 

Next to the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. Lake Norman State Park is only 45 mins north of Charlotte and has a plethora of fun activities to do. Between hiking, biking, family camping, a swimming beach, fishing, and a boat ramp, this is a great local getaway. They boast one of the regions most popular biking trails with 30.5 miles of single-track trail system. Hiking is allowed on the biking trails as well as several trails near the lake. The most popular is the Lake Shore Trail which is 6 miles (or 3 miles if you take the shortcut). This trail is easy and follows along the lake. There are many lake views and places to walk down to the water. These areas are perfect places to have a picnic or a break. During the warmer months, bring bug spray. 

The visitor center has free educational exhibits and a child-friendly Dragonfly Trail. The Dragonfly Trail is completely paved to be easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. This .15 mile trail has interactive lift-and-drop panels that provide interesting facts about the plants and animals found in the park.

There are 32 sites and group camping available during the warm weather months, as well as a community building with kitchen facilities, restrooms, and a fireplace to host gatherings. During the summer, there is a 125-yard long sand beach swimming area. There is a parking area and bathhouse with restrooms, hot showers, changing area, lockers, and a concession stand. The swimming area is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. The park charges a fee when there are lifeguards on duty. The concession stand offers snacks, ice cream, and drinks. The swim area only accepts cash; otherwise, you have to pay at the visitor center. 

Lake Norman State Park has many features to have you visiting all year long.