Lake Norman State Park

I celebrated another year on the planet
by doing one of my favorite things in this world!

We spent the morning at Lake Norman State Park
in nearby Troutman.
This park is special to me because
we almost bought a house right in its backyard.
Much of the appeal of that house
was the location.
Can you imagine having a state park just steps away from your front door?
For a nature lover like myself,
it would have been a dream come true.
Just the photo ops alone had me drooling.
Alas, it wasn't meant to be.

In 2011-2012 when we lived in Central Florida, 
we decided to visit one state park each month.
State Parks are a phenomenal chance to get up close
with the natural world.
We have visited several state parks here in North Carolina
over the years that we have been vacationing here.
I'm hoping we will take more time to explore them
now that we are full-time residents of this great state.
You can find more on our State Park visits from both states
underneath the header.

Inside the visitor's center,
you will find information about the state park system,
as well as historical facts about the area.

Over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails await the adventurer.
We opted for two shorter trails
and were not disappointed with the views.

Although it was mid-summer,
the canopied trails had a cooling effect.

We kept our eyes open for unusual sights,
like this collection of winding branches.

Each trail is clearly marked
and is focused on educating the hiker on the local flora and fauna.
Kiosks with pertinent information keep the backpacker engaged.
This is such a wonderful homeschooling opportunity.

Boating, fishing and swimming are some of the water activities available.

With so much to see and appreciate,
even my "non-hikers" enjoyed the trek.

The trails meandered through thick brush,
keeping us in suspense about what might be lurking around every bend.
From the website:
"Though most of the park's animal species are rarely seen, at least 35 species of mammals have been found in the area around the park. Upland communities are home to coyotes, Virginia opossum, eastern cottontail, gray squirrel, red and gray foxes, and white-tailed deer, as well as the eastern mole and several species of shrews and mice. Muskrat and raccoon may be seen in the marshes along the creeks and lake."

The peaceful setting invites hikers to follow the trail,
and  
              savor 
                      the 
                                      serenity.

Fallen trees abound and no doubt create 
ample habitats for the wildlife living here.

Canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats are available for rent,
and personal watercraft are welcome within the park's boundaries.
We saw one person paddle boarding and thought 
it was a stellar way to greet a summer morning.

Though most of the park is shaded,
we did spy some pollinator-friendly plants near the water.

If these logs could talk...

We made note of a medley of mushrooms along the way.
Sister (who abhors them), thought they didn't look real!
What a fabulous forest of fungi!

As I get older,
the need to slow down and reflect becomes more centering.
This peaceful place lends itself well to that endeavor.

Along with free admission to the park,
there is no charge to use picnic areas.  
Picnic shelters can also be used at no cost,
and accommodate visitors with restrooms, tables and grills.

Campsites are open to tents and trailers,
although there are no hookups at this park.
A bathhouse is located near sites for campers' use,
but no laundry facilities are available.
Those who enjoy a more rustic experience,
would no doubt be right at home here.

Found treasure!

After our hike,
we took advantage of these inviting rockers
overlooking the lake.

Someone else made himself to home.

What a blessing to be able to spend time
with those I love on my special day.
With surroundings like this,
the day couldn't help but be magical.

State Park Posts:

Crowders Mountain
King's Mountain
Morrow Mountain