Recreation Access Alert (2/7/2024) - Solar panel construction is occurring in proximity to the Tuckertown tailrace from February through the end of May, 2024. To anglers and those planning to use the portage trail, please be aware of construction vehicle traffic along the access road. Do not approach the construction site. 

The lakes of the Yadkin Project provide numerous recreational opportunities, from sailing and skiing, to bird watching and fishing. Here are just a few of the many ways the lakes provide enjoyment for people in the region:

Fishing

The Yadkin Project lakes support a strong warm water fishery. Because the lakes are less developed than some lakes in the Piedmont, fishing is among the best in the region. The eastern shore of the Narrows reservoir borders the Uwharrie National Forest, and the lake is well-known for its stock of catfish, crappie, bream, largemouth, white and striped bass. Well-attended bass tournaments are usually held every weekend from May through October. Notice: A fish advisory for catfish and largemouth bass in Badin Lake was issued in February 2009. Click here for more information.

Motor Boating and Sailing

The lakes each have a different character, providing enjoyment for a variety of boating styles. Skiers and sailors especially enjoy the large size and bustling activity of High Rock lake. Boaters have more than 40 public launch sites, many with facilities for fuel, food and all the supplies necessary for a day of enjoyment.

Canoeing

Canoeing is enjoyed throughout the Yadkin Project. Paddlers especially like the solitude and largely natural shoreline of Tuckertown and Falls lakes. The Yadkin River Canoe Trail is a 165-mile long course that starts above High Rock Lake and continues through the lakes of the Yadkin Project eventually ending at the junction with the Pee Dee River. Camping is available at several sites along the trail.

Camping

Many people canoe-camp on the lakes, and camping is available in several locations beginning at the headwaters of High Rock Lake and continuing downstream into Falls Lake. Camping is not permitted on the islands within the lake boundaries. Camping is also available at the nearby Morrow Mountain State Park just south of the project, and at Pilot Mountain State Park, just northwest of the High Rock Lake. The Uwharrie National Forest borders 10 miles of the Narrows reservoir’s shoreline and the Badin Lake Campground provides 37 campsites for tents and trailers.

Hunting

Many of the undeveloped areas along the shoreline of the lakes are designated as Game Lands by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and provide quality upland hunting. Anyone using the Game Lands must adhere to the rules established by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

Area Attractions

The Yadkin lakes region is filled with interesting nooks and crannies to explore. For a start, the town of Badin is on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded as a French industrial outpost at the turn of the century, Badin is filled with French-influenced buildings that have changed little in the past century. The Best of Badin Festival is held every fall. Visit www.centralparknc.org for more information about regional attractions.