RV Rental Lake James, NC

Enjoying an average depth of 65 feet and a maximum depth of 115 feet, camping at Lake James has become a watersports paradise. What’s more, there is no speed restriction or horsepower limit on these vast waters, so visitors can enjoy the lake in any way they see fit. If you happen to be motorhome camping with your own boating equipment, head straight for either Hidden Cove or Canal Bridge, both of which offer a public boat launch ramp. Here, those without their own boat can pick up a canoe or kayak for half a day or a full day hire, as well as purchasing up any fishing tackle they might need. Speaking of angling, Lake James harbors a thriving population of sports fish - largemouth bass being the most popular here. Walleye, white bass, crappie, sunfish, perch, and catfish are all available here too.

Enveloped by picturesque gorges and rolling hills, RV camping at Lake James is also popular with keen hikers and mountain bikers. A well-developed trail system undulates through Lake James State Park, which is situated on the lake’s northern shoreline. With eight trails to choose from, it doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you’ll find something to suit you here. In addition to these walking trails are 15 miles of mountain bike paths catering to a variety of ability levels. Blue circles mark an easy trail, perfect for beginners, while orange and red circles indicate a more difficult path, ideal for those with more experience.

Should you be simply looking for a pretty place to relax during your Lake James camping trip, there are plenty of beaches and day-use areas peppered along the 150-mile shoreline too. Paddy’s Creek, with a sandy bay and safe swimming area, is one of the lake’s most favorited beaches. Open from May through to September, there are also restroom facilities, and a concession stand is available here too. Should Paddy’s Creek become a little too overcrowded, head over to the Catawba River day-use area, which boasts picnic tables, public grills, and drinking water.

Unfortunately, none of the campgrounds located in Lake James State Park can accommodate those with an RV rental, so you’ll need to head a little further afield to find somewhere to park up for the night. Rose Creek Family Campground lies a twenty-minute drive northeast of Lake James and is offers a comfortable weekend stopover. Campers can choose from 35 secluded campsites, all of which are equipped with their own picnic table and firepit. While the majority of sites are serviced with full hookups, some have access to just water and electric. Restroom facilities are included in the nightly rates and consist of hot showers, flushing toilets, and sink facilities.

Another option for campers with an RV rental near Lake James is to stop over at the well-equipped Jellystone Park Camp-Resort near Marion. Along with the usual selection of modern facilities, including full hookups, modern restrooms, and onsite Wi-Fi, this campground also boasts an outdoor swimming pool, mini-golf course, and children’s playground, so you’ll have no problem keeping the children entertained. Should you need to do any clothes washing, or pick up any supplies for dinner, you can also do so at the handy onsite launderette and general store.

For those who are willing to make the journey, the city of Ashville is just under an hour’s drive away and is full of alternative sightseeing attractions. If you haven’t quite had enough of the outdoors, consider taking a visit to the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Encompassing 42-acres, this zoological park is on a mission to educate all visitors on native wildlife, including flora and fauna. Different from your usual zoo, this nature center acts as a refuge for injured or orphaned animals that would not survive on their own in the wild. Children and parents alike will love meeting resident species, including red pandas, bobcats, American black bears, and the great horned owl.

When you’re traveling with teens, impress them by taking them to the Asheville Pinball Museum. Home to over 30 antique tables and 20 classic arcade games, it’s easy enough to while away a whole afternoon here. Although the oldest tables that date back to the 1940s aren’t to be played with, the pinball tables from the 1960s and upwards are available to use. What’s more, should you take a fancy to the games during your visit, a small handful are up for sale and are available to take home in your RV the very same day!

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence sits right next to the Pinball Museum, and it is well worth just popping in to see this unique piece of architecture. Built-in 1905, the red bricks and domed turrets of this spectacular church were designed by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino. After admiring the dramatic exterior, step inside to delight the eyes even further with the basilica’s elaborate stained-glass windows and marble chapels.