Discover the Top Lakes Around Boone, North Carolina: Insiders Guide
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Surrounded by pristine lakes, this charming college town offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports, tranquil paddling, or a scenic camping getaway, the lakes near Boone provide endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore the top lakes around Boone—Watauga Lake, Price Lake, and W. Kerr Scott Reservoir—highlighting the best times to visit, activities available, and why booking with Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours and Sailboat Rentals is the ultimate way to experience these natural gems.
Why Visit the Lakes Around Boone, North Carolina?
Boone, named after the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone, is a vibrant hub in Watauga County, renowned for its outdoor offerings and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The area’s lakes are a cornerstone of its appeal, drawing visitors year-round for their crystal-clear waters, diverse recreational opportunities, and stunning mountain backdrops. From sailing on expansive reservoirs to paddling serene ponds, these lakes cater to adventurers and leisure seekers alike.
The best times to visit depend on your preferred activities:
• Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures (50-70°F) and blooming wildflowers make it ideal for hiking, paddling, and early-season camping. Crowds are lighter, and lakes are peaceful.
• Summer (June-August): Warm weather (70-80°F) is perfect for swimming, sailing, and water sports. Expect more visitors, especially on weekends.
• Fall (September-November): Cooler temperatures (50-70°F) and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting for paddling, fishing, and photography. Fall is peak season for scenic tours.
• Winter (December-February): Quieter months with occasional snow (30-50°F) are great for serene hikes and cozy camping near lakes, though water activities are limited.
With Tour Boone, you can elevate your lake experience with expertly guided paddle tours and sailboat rentals, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure. Let’s dive into the top lakes and what makes them must-visit destinations.
1. Watauga Lake: The Crown Jewel for Sailing and Adventure
Overview
Watauga Lake, a 6,430-acre reservoir in northeastern Tennessee, is just a 45-minute drive from Boone. Nestled in the Cherokee National Forest, this massive lake boasts over 100 miles of shoreline, half of which remains undeveloped, offering pristine views and a sense of untouched wilderness. At 1,959 feet above sea level, Watauga Lake is the Tennessee Valley Authority’s highest-elevated reservoir, known for its clean, cool waters and dramatic mountain scenery.
Best Times to Visit
• Summer: Ideal for sailing, swimming, and water sports, with warm temperatures and clear skies.
• Fall: Stunning fall foliage enhances sailing and hiking experiences, with fewer crowds in early September.
• Spring: Perfect for fishing and quieter sailing trips, with blooming rhododendrons along the Appalachian Trail.
Activities at Watauga Lake
Watauga Lake is a versatile playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering:
• Sailing: With its expansive surface and steady mountain breezes, Watauga Lake is a sailor’s paradise. Tour Boone’s Great Sailboat Rentals provides top-notch sailboats, from sleek sloops to family-friendly catamarans, complete with safety briefings and route suggestions. Glide past forested shores, explore hidden coves, or join the annual July 4th houseboating parade for a festive experience.
• Boating and Water Sports: Rent pontoon boats, jet skis, or wakeboards from local marinas like Fish Springs Marina. Parasailing and water skiing are popular for thrill-seekers.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Paddle along the lake’s calm inlets or venture to the Appalachian Trail crossing for a unique perspective. Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours offers guided kayak and SUP tours, highlighting the lake’s ecology and history.
• Swimming: Public beaches, like those near Watauga Lakeshore Resort, are family-friendly with lifeguarded areas and picnic facilities.
• Fishing: Anglers can catch bluegill, bass, walleye, and trout. A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required.
• Hiking and Camping: The Appalachian Trail follows a ridge above the lake, offering strenuous hikes with panoramic views. Campgrounds like Watauga Point and Little Oak provide lakeside tent and RV sites.
Why Visit with Tour Boone?
Tour Boone’s Great Sailboat Rentals transforms your Watauga Lake visit into a bespoke adventure. Their experienced guides share local insights, from the lake’s Cherokee history to the best spots for sunset sails. Rentals include all necessary gear, and group tours cater to all skill levels, making it easy to enjoy Watauga’s beauty without the hassle of planning. For a romantic evening, book a private sunset sail and watch the Blue Ridge Mountains glow under the twilight sky.
Insider Tip
Visit Watauga Lake Winery, a short drive from the lake, for a post-sail tasting of local wines. Pair it with a picnic at one of the lake’s scenic overlooks for a perfect day.
2. Price Lake: The Paddler’s Paradise
Overview
Located just 20 minutes south of Boone along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Price Lake is a 47-acre gem within Julian Price Memorial Park. Surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, this serene lake is a favorite for paddlers seeking tranquility and stunning scenery. Its proximity to Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and Grandfather Mountain State Park makes it an ideal stop on a Boone adventure itinerary.
Best Times to Visit
• Spring: Mild weather and blooming azaleas create a picturesque paddling environment.
• Fall: Vibrant foliage transforms the lake into a photographer’s dream, with calm waters for paddling.
• Summer: Warm days are great for paddling and hiking, though weekends can be busy.
Activities at Price Lake
Price Lake is a non-motorized haven, perfect for peaceful water activities and nature immersion:
• Paddling: The lake’s calm waters and compact size make it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours offers guided tours that explore the lake’s ecology, from native fish to migratory birds. Rentals include high-quality kayaks and paddleboards, with options for solo or tandem paddling. Their “Paddle & Picnic” tour combines a guided paddle with a gourmet picnic featuring local cheeses and craft cider.
• Fishing: Stocked with rainbow and brook trout, Price Lake is a hotspot for anglers. A North Carolina or Virginia fishing license is required.
• Hiking: The 2.7-mile Price Lake Loop Trail is a scenic, family-friendly hike with lake views and opportunities to spot deer and herons.
• Camping: Julian Price Campground offers 197 sites, including tent and RV options, with easy access to the lake. Book early for peak fall season.
• Photography: The lake’s mirror-like surface reflects Grandfather Mountain, especially at sunrise, making it a must for shutterbugs.
Why Visit with Tour Boone?
Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours enhances your Price Lake experience with expert guides who share stories of the lake’s history, including its ties to Moses H. Cone’s estate. Their tours are tailored to all ages, with kid-friendly options that include wildlife spotting games. For a unique experience, join their moonlight paddle tour, where you’ll glide under a starlit sky with the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop.
Insider Tip
After paddling, visit the nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park to explore Flat Top Manor and its craft center, showcasing local artisans. Pair it with a hike to Bass Lake for a full day of exploration.
3. W. Kerr Scott Reservoir: The Ultimate Camping and Mountain Biking Destination
Overview
A 35-minute drive from Boone near Wilkesboro, W. Kerr Scott Reservoir spans 1,475 acres along the Yadkin River. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this reservoir is a recreational powerhouse, offering free day-use areas and a wide range of activities. Its rolling hills, sandy beaches, and extensive trail systems make it a top choice for camping and mountain biking enthusiasts.
Best Times to Visit
• Spring and Fall: Mild temperatures (50-70°F) are ideal for mountain biking, camping, and hiking, with fewer crowds.
• Summer: Warm weather (70-80°F) is perfect for swimming, boating, and lakeside camping, though book campgrounds in advance.
• Winter: Quiet months for hiking and serene camping, with occasional trail closures due to rain.
Activities at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir
W. Kerr Scott is an adventurer’s dream, with activities for all interests:
• Camping: Choose from Bandit’s Roost, Fort Hamby, or Warrior Creek campgrounds, offering tent, RV, and boat-in sites. Fort Hamby Park features a sandy beach, picnic tables, and playgrounds, perfect for families. Tour Boone can arrange guided camping experiences, including gear rentals and campfire storytelling sessions.
• Mountain Biking: The reservoir is a mountain biking mecca, with over 40 miles of singletrack trails. Dark Mountain and Warrior Creek trails offer flowy descents and technical climbs, suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Tour Boone provides bike rentals and guided tours, highlighting the best trails and scenic overlooks.
• Boating and Water Sports: Rent motorboats, kayaks, or paddleboards for wakeboarding, water skiing, or leisurely cruises. The lake’s multiple boat ramps make access easy.
• Swimming: Designated swim beaches, like those at Fort Hamby, are lifeguarded in summer and ideal for families.
• Fishing: The reservoir is stocked with bass, catfish, and crappie, attracting anglers year-round.
• Hiking: Trails like the Overmountain Victory Trail offer historical insights and lake views, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Why Visit with Tour Boone?
Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours and Sailboat Rentals extends its expertise to W. Kerr Scott, offering guided mountain biking and kayaking tours that showcase the reservoir’s rugged beauty. Their camping packages include setup services, allowing you to focus on enjoying the lake’s starry nights and morning sunrises. For adrenaline junkies, their “Bike & Paddle Combo” tour pairs a morning of trail riding with an afternoon of kayaking, complete with a lakeside lunch.
Insider Tip
Visit the nearby Dark Mountain trails for a sunrise bike ride, followed by a swim at Fort Hamby’s beach. Stop by Wilkesboro’s downtown for craft coffee at Talia Espresso before heading back to Boone.
Honorable Mentions: Other Lakes to Explore
While Watauga Lake, Price Lake, and W. Kerr Scott Reservoir steal the spotlight, Boone’s surrounding area offers other lakes worth visiting:
• Bass Lake: Located in Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, this 22-acre lake is perfect for a scenic walk or jog along its 1-mile loop trail. Fishing and paddling are allowed, but swimming is prohibited.
• Wildcat Lake: A 13-acre lake in Banner Elk, 20 minutes from Boone, known for its white sand beach and family-friendly swimming area. Non-motorized boating and fishing are popular, with lifeguards on duty in summer.
• Trout Lake: Also in Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, this smaller lake offers fishing and hiking, with a tranquil setting for a quick escape.
For a curated experience at these lakes, contact Tour Boone to customize a multi-lake tour, combining paddling, hiking, and local dining for a full High Country adventure.
Why Book with Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours and Sailboat Rentals?
Tour Boone is your gateway to the best lake experiences in the Boone area. Here’s why they stand out:
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff share local history, ecology, and insider tips, ensuring a rich and immersive experience.
• Top-Quality Equipment: From sailboats to kayaks, all rentals are well-maintained and suited for beginners to experts.
• Customizable Tours: Choose from family-friendly paddles, romantic sunset sails, or adrenaline-pumping bike-and-paddle combos.
• Eco-Conscious Approach: Tours emphasize Leave No Trace principles, preserving the High Country’s natural beauty for future generations.
• Convenient Booking: Visit www.tourboone.com to book online, with flexible scheduling and group discounts.
Whether you’re sailing Watauga Lake’s expansive waters, paddling Price Lake’s serene shores, or camping under the stars at W. Kerr Scott, Tour Boone ensures every moment is unforgettable.
Planning Your Lake Adventure in Boone
Getting There
Boone is easily accessible, within a three-hour drive from Charlotte, Asheville, or Knoxville. The closest airport is Tri-Cities Regional (TRI), 90 minutes away. Rent a car to explore the lakes, or book a shuttle with Tour Boone for hassle-free transport.
Where to Stay
• Boone: Hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott or cozy cabins via Airbnb offer modern amenities and proximity to downtown.
• Blowing Rock: Charming inns like the Chetola Resort are close to Price Lake.
• Wilkesboro: Campgrounds at W. Kerr Scott or budget motels provide affordable options.
• Banner Elk: Stay near Wildcat Lake at the Banner Elk Lodge for a rustic retreat.
What to Pack
• Summer: Swimsuit, sunscreen, water shoes, and a hat for sun protection.
• Spring/Fall: Layers, waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes.
• Winter: Warm clothing and insulated boots for hiking or camping.
• For Tours: Tour Boone provides paddles, life jackets, and helmets, but bring a reusable water bottle and camera.
Conclusion: Experience Boone’s Lakes with Tour Boone
The lakes around Boone, North Carolina, offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Watauga Lake’s vast waters beckon sailors, Price Lake’s calm shores invite paddlers, and W. Kerr Scott Reservoir thrills campers and bikers. With Tour Boone’s Great Paddle Tours and Sailboat Rentals, you’ll unlock the full potential of these High Country gems, from guided explorations to curated itineraries that showcase the Blue Ridge Mountains’ splendor.
Ready to embark on your lake adventure? Visit www.tourboone.com to book your tour or rental today. Whether you’re chasing thrills or seeking serenity, Boone’s lakes are calling—and Tour Boone is your key to answering that call.
Hewitt Emerson
Tour Boone Concierge
www.tourboone.com