Lake James State Park Swim Beach
Lake · North Carolina
About this swimming hole
Lake James State Park's Paddy's Creek swim beach offers a big, clear mountain-lake swim with lifeguards and a bathhouse in season. The Linville Mountains rise behind the water. It's the most developed swim beach in the western Piedmont foothills.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | shallow beach entry |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Seasonal beach hours |
| Parking | Paddy's Creek lot |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguard seasonal, campground, picnic tables |
| County | Burke County |
| Nearest town | Nebo |
| Safety notes | Lifeguard seasonal; swim within marked area |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Lake James State Park Swim Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake James State Park Swim Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake James State Park Swim Beach?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake James State Park Swim Beach?
The best season is typically May-September.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026