1. Recreation and Parks
  2. Parks, Facilities, and Trails
  3. Lake Michael Park

Lake Michael Park

Hours

Lake Michael is open:

  • 6 am to 9 pm

Currently, the Boat House is closed due to structural issues.

view of pier at Lake Michael Park

Amenities and activities

If you haven't experienced the aesthetically pleasing views at Lake Michael park, it's time to take a hike on our 3 miles of trails, have a picnic with your family, or bring your canoe or kayak out for a beautiful paddle.

Lake Michael also offers many fishing opportunities. Make sure you have your fishing license and bring your bait and tackle!

If you are looking for a leisurely boating experience on our 60-acre lake, we also offer a boat launch that can accommodate boats up to 17.5 feet in length, but remember, there is no wake at Lake Michael, trolling only!

You can also rent one of our 3 shelters for an outdoor family get-together.

Features at the lake:

  • 60-acre lake with multiple fishing piers
  • Fishing (with a fishing license)
  • Boat Launch (open seasonally from April -  September)
  • Marina and boat rentals (Rentals are FREE - please use this link to access the usage agreement
    • The last day for vessel rentals for 2023 will on Sunday, October 15th.
  • 3 shelters with tables (available to rent)
    • $25 for 4 hours (10 am - 2 pm or 3 - 7 pm)
  • Picnic areas
  • Grills
  • Restrooms
  • 2 playgrounds
  • Walking trails
    • Yellow: JJ Knox Trail (.75 mile)
    • Blue: Mason Hall Trail (1.05 miles, one way)
    • Red: Nature Trail (1.25 miles, one way) - bikes allowed on Red trail only

Rules

Please follow these when you are at the lake:

  • Absolutely no alcoholic beverages allowed
  • Pets must be on a leash at all times
  • Fishing regulations:
    • Anyone 16 years or older using any type of bait or gear to catch finfish must have a valid North Carolina fishing license.
    • Bass Creel limit of 3, size of at least 14"; 2 of any size total creel limit of 5. (adopted 7-1-91)
    • Creel limit for catfish is 6 per day.
    • NO size limit or creel limit on Bream, Crappie, Goggle-Eye or Robin. These species of fish are very prolific and many times over-populate. This causes stunting of growth size. (adopted 6-5-89)
    • It is unlawful to take out the Grass Carp. (adopted 6-5-89)

Fishing licenses

Purchase a license:

  • Buy online
  • By phone at 1-888-2HUNTFISH (1-888-248-6834)
  • From any license agent

If you receive Food Stamps, Medicaid or Work First Family Assistance, you can get a written waiver from the fishing license requirement from the County department of social services.

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