Lake James

Lake James is the 2nd largest reservoir of the Catawba River system which straddles the border between Burke and McDowell Counties. It is named for tobacco tycoon and benefactor of Duke University, James Buchanan Duke. The lake, owned by Duke Energy to 1200 feet sea level was created between 1916-1923 as a hydro-electric project. The majority of the development around Lake James has been by Crescent Resourse, the real estate company of Duke Energy, creating various homes and homesites for every taste. This deep water was used in the popular films The Last of the Mohicans and The Hunt for Red October. 

Lake James boasts a state park that folks rave about that includes camping, mountain bike trails, paddleboard rentals and more.