Boating and Paddling
Mecklenburg County has some of the best water-based recreation areas in the country. Whether it's your first time afloat or you're training for advanced experiences, our facilities will help get you on the water.
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Boating
Copperhead Island Park (Lake Wylie)
15200 Soldier Road, Charlotte
980-314-1000
A 6-tent campground featuring four boat ramps, fishing piers, and other amenities.Blythe Landing Park (Lake Norman)
15901 NC Highway 73, Huntersville.
980-314-1000
Features six boat ramps and 218 parking spaces for boat trailers. Additional amenities include a playground and picnic areas.Ramsey Creek Park (Lake Norman)
18441 Nantz Road, Cornelius
980-314-1001
Features four boat ramps. Additional amenities include a playground, picnic shelters, and an ADA-compliant fishing pier.Please note: only County approved boat rental companies are allowed to launch from Blythe Landing and Ramsey Creek Parks. Approved vendors for the 2025 season:
- Sundry Day Rentals
- Cornelius Pontoon Rentals
- CHS Lakes Services (hyperlink:
- Fun Time Water Sports (jet skis)
Fees apply for boat launch use. Season passes are available.
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Paddling
McDowell Nature Preserve
15222 York Road, Charlotte
980-314-1128You can access Lake Wylie through McDowell Nature Preserve. Bring your own canoe, kayak, or SUP and launch from the landing located near the waterfront deck. You can also sign up for a guided program where boats are provided.
Latta Nature Preserve
6345 Sample Road, Huntersville
980-314-1129Latta Nature Preserve offers two launch options on Mountain Island Lake for canoes, kayaks and SUPs. The North Canoe Access includes an accessible launch platform in a sheltered cove. The Gar Creek Canoe Access offers convenient entry into the Gar Creek inlet. You can also sign up for a guided program.