Lake Rhodhiss, North Carolina, USA

Also known as:  Rhodhiss Lake

Lake Rhodhiss spans 3,060 acres in Burke and Caldwell Counties of west central North Carolina, lying between Lake James and Lake Hickory. A view of surrounding mountain peaks and wildlife, coupled with Rhodhiss’ sprawling quiet, makes the lake a beauty. It is a narrow river-like reservoir within the large Catawba River Basin. About three fourths of the lake’s watershed is forested and only three percent developed, making…
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    • All About Lake Rhodhiss, NC

    Lake Locations: USA - US South Region - North Carolina - Mountains Region, NC -

    Lake Rhodhiss in North Carolina is an absolute beauty with sprawling quiet and views of surrounding mountain peaks and wildlife.

    It is a narrow, river-like reservoir within the large Catawba River Basin and spans 3,060 acres in Burke and Caldwell counties of west central North Carolina, lying between Lake James and Lake Hickory. About three fourths of the lake’s watershed is forested and only three percent developed, making the area a good choice for those who simply desire some rejuvenation in nature’s lap.

    Lake Rhodhiss, NC

    Lake Rhodhiss, NC by Adam Hook, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

    Rhodhiss Lake was filled after Duke Energy constructed a dam and hydro station in 1925. The dam is 65 feet high and 1,500 feet long. Duke Energy continues to control water uses, which include hydroelectric power, industrial and residential water supply, and waste assimilation.

    Visitors take full advantage of the lake’s recreational opportunities and enjoy nearly every water sport in waters that remain constant throughout the year: water skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, swimming, boating and paddle boarding. Duke, in collaboration with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, provides four boat access areas and one bank fishing area for visitors’ convenience. A marina offers a boat ramp, fuel, boat storage, restaurant, and grocery items.

    Several major tributaries feed the waters of Rhodhiss Lake, including Johns River, Muddy Creek, and Silver Creek. Much of the lake’s headwaters are classified as trout waters with exceptional quality. And, in fact, Rhodhiss Lake is considered the densest resource of fish among Catawba lakes. Largemouth bass, striped bass, muskie, catfish, sunfish, and crappie are among the most attractive species. Largemouth bass in particular are exceptionally plenty and large weighing in up to 10 pounds. Though it is a productive lake, anglers report that Lake Rhodhiss does not receive a lot of fishing pressure, making it a quiet place of discovery for the contemplative fisherman.

    Lake Rhodhiss residential development, including gated communities, offers lakefront properties and lake-access properties with mountain and wildlife views.

    Rhodhiss Lake is surrounded by North Carolina towns that are quaint, warm, friendly, and full of rich history. The city of Lenoir has an annual Harambee Arts Festival in August that includes a block party, dance, pageant and yard sale among other fun family events. Lenoir’s downtown square is filled with antique and novelty shops and often offers events such as live music.

    You will find an unexpected experience exploring the heritage of the town of Valdese, originally founded by Waldensian religious settlers who migrated from the Cottian Alps in Italy. The Trail of Faith, Waldensian Heritage Museum with gift shop, and Waldensian Heritage Wines are among numerous points of interest. The winery preserves Waldensian traditions of Italian wine-making. In the summer, take in a dramatic recounting of the Waldenses’ beginnings at the Old Colony Amphitheater or visit the Old Rock School, an establishment of local and regional art and well-known for its bluegrass concerts.

    North Carolina’s largest state park, the South Mountains State Park about 30 miles south of Lake Rhodhiss, offers trout fishing, equestrian facilities, mountain biking, hiking and picnicking opportunities. About an hour away are Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain.

    Sugar Mountain provides downhill skiing facilities, and Grandfather Mountain is the highest in the Blue Ridge Mountain chain at near 6,000 feet. Also visit the famed “Mile High Swinging Bridge” or one of the enclosed wildlife habitats of the cougar, black bear or eagle.

    Chimney Rock State Park offers a few mountain attractions, one of which is a 315-foot rock with an elevator inside. The 26-story elevator carries visitors to the top of the mountain at a 2,280-foot elevation for a stunning view of the edges of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

    The metropolitan hub of Hickory is just a quick drive to the east of Rhodhiss Lake. The city offers one of the best furniture shopping opportunities in the world, plus a series of thriving culture and arts opportunities. The region has numerous public golf courses of note.

    Lake Rhodhiss is a great lake for fishermen, water sports enthusiasts, and those who seek a lake-living lifestyle. It offers the convenience of serene seclusion and accessibility to a wide variety of outdoor adventure and urban enjoyment. Start planning your trip!

    Can you swim in Lake Rhodhiss?

    Swimming in Lake Rhodhiss is a popular pastime for people of all ages. The pristine waters of this tranquil lake in Western North Carolina are also ideal for many other activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding.

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    Explore available vacation properties at Lake Rhodhiss on VRBO:

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  • Waterfront Properties
  • Lake Cabins & Cottages
  • Pet Friendly Units
  • Homes for Large Groups
  • Luxury Rentals
  • Hot Tub or Pool On-Site

    • Explore Area Hotels

    Nearby Morganton and Hickory, NC offer more hotel accommodations:

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    • Things to Do at Lake Rhodhiss

    These are some activities in the Lake Rhodhiss, NC area visitors can enjoy:

    • Fishing
    • Boating
    • Swimming
    • Jet Skiing
    • Water Skiing
    • Wakeboarding
    • Tubing
    • Golf
    • Picnicking
    • Hiking
    • Biking
    • Downhill Skiing
    • Horseback Riding
    • Wildlife Viewing
    • Birding
    • State Park
    • Museum
    • Antiquing
    • Shopping

    What Kind of Fish Are in Lake Rhodhiss?

    Lake Rhodhiss has been known to have the following fish species:

    • Bass
    • Black Bass
    • Catfish
    • Crappie
    • Largemouth Bass
    • Muskellunge
    • Pike
    • Striped Bass
    • Sunfish
    • Trout

    Top Tours & Attractions Near Lake Rhodhiss, NC

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    Find Places to Stay at Lake Rhodhiss

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    Lake Rhodhiss Statistics & Helpful Links

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    Lake Type: Artificial Reservoir, Dammed

    Water Level Control: Duke Energy

    Surface Area: 3,060 acres

    Shoreline Length: 90 miles

    Normal Elevation (Full Pond): 995 feet

    Average Depth: 20 feet

    Maximum Depth: 52 feet

    Water Volume: 70,300 acre-feet

    Completion Year: 1925

    Water Residence Time: 21 days

    Drainage Area: 1,088 sq. miles

    Trophic State: Eutrophic

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