Kids can just jump into the lake, in many spots right from the sandy beaches which surround the lake. For kids who are a little older or more adventurous, additional water activities include jet-skiing, waterboarding and water-skiing. For those traveling with a boat, ramps are located throughout the lake for easy acces. If you choose to boat at the last minute, the lake offers pontoon boat rentals. For children interested in learning more about watercraft and the lake, the North Carolina Community Sailing and Rowing Center is located on site at Lake Norman; offering activities for children of all ages.
Lake Norman is filled with ample walking trails, nature paths and paved walkways; all of which can keep children entertained while visiting the lake. If you are traveling with bikes in tow, children can use one of the many bicycle paths to explore more of the lake area. Kids, whether walking or biking, can look around and take in the natural surroundings and also keep an eye out for the animals and birds which live in and around the lake. One area for kids to visit while at Lake Norman, is the rehabilitation center located on site where birds and water fowl which have been injured are being cared for until they can return to the wild.
Children can be entertained by fishing in Lake Norman. Bass, striper, white bass, bluegill and catfish can all be found living in the waters of the lake. Fishing can be done on an individual basis with no set schedule; or you can opt to hire a fishing guide to help show you and your children where the best fishing spots are along the lake. You can also fish if you are boating on the lake, for a chance at letting kids catch a little bigger fish as more variety exists away from the shoreline.
One of the legends associated with Lake Norman is the tale of "Normie." Local lore talks about the Lake Norman monster, dubbed "Normie." The tale involves the giant creature which is rumored to live in the deep sections of the lake, though many report having seen a head and intriguing fins emerge from time to time. Children can get in on the legend by trying to pay attention while walking, boating, swimming or even relaxing on the beach by trying to spy a glimpse of the infamous "Normie." If you really want to take the kids on a "Normie" adventure, opt for the Lake Monster Cruise which tours the lake, teaches about the legend and tries to catch sight of the beast.
