Lake Michael Park

Hours

Lake Michael is open:

  • 6:00am - Dusk

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

Lake Michael Park will be closing to the public indefinitely starting on September 9, 2024.

The Spillway and Dam at the park will undergo significant improvements for safety reasons.

Please see the video and statement below for more information regarding the closure and improvements.

Park Location & Amenity Closing Times

(those that do not have lights present after-hour use)

January 1 - March 9 6:00 pm
March 10 - March 31 7:30 pm
April 1 - April 30 8:00 pm
May 1 - May 31 8:30 pm
June 1 - June 30 8:30 pm
July 1 - July 31 8:30 pm
August 1 - August 31 8:00 pm
September 1 - September 30 7:30 pm
October 1 - October 31 7:00 pm
November 1 - December 31 6:00pm
view of pier at Lake Michael Park

A Pause for a Cause - Lake Michael Closure Information

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, remember, there is no wake at Lake Michael, trolling only!

Please be advised that the boat launch ramp at Lake Michael will be closed starting June 6, 2024. However, the lake remains open for kayaks. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

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

Features at the lake:

  • 60-acre lake with multiple fishing piers
  • Fishing (with a fishing license)
  • Vessel rentals (Rentals are FREE, first come first serve, in person ONLY - please use this link to access the usage agreement)
    • The last day for vessel rentals for 2024 will on Sunday, October 12th. - Will now close September 9, 2024
  • 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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