Located on the Catawba River, Charlotte-Mecklenburg has some of the best water-based recreation areas in the country. Whether it's Lake Norman, Mountain Island Lake or Lake Wylie, our facilities will help get you in the water.
Motorized Boat Launching:
Boat launch fees are collected at the following facilities on weekends and holidays from March 1 to October 31. $5/boat for Mecklenburg County residents. $8/boat for non-County residents.
- Blythe Landing (Lake Norman) 704-896-9808
15901 NC Highway 73
Huntersville, NC 28078
- Ramsey Creek Park (Lake Norman) 704-896-9808
18441 Nantz Road
Cornelius, NC
- Copperhead Island (Lake Wylie) 704-588-5224
15200 Soldier Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Canoe/Kayak Launching:
The following facilities offer launch sites for canoes, kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft. No launch fees are required.
- McDowell Nature Preserve (Lake Wylie) 704-588-5224
15222 York Road (NC 49)
Charlotte, NC 28278
Visitors with their own canoes and kayaks can launch directly into Lake Wylie from the landing located near the waterfront deck
- Latta Plantation Nature Preserve (Mountain Island) 704-875-1391
5226 Sample Road
Huntersville, NC 28078
Visitors with their own canoes and kayaks can launch from either the North Canoe Access directly into Mountain Island Lake or from the Gar Creek Canoe Access into the Gar Creek inlet.
Canoe/Kayak Instruction:
We now offer a diversity of instructional programs designed for novices and experts alike. For our current offerings, browse our online program registration system, E-Parks or call 704-504-1014 for more information.