Buckeye Lake Recreation Area

Location: Beech Mountain · Avery County

Address: 1330 Pine Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain, NC 28604

Phone: 828-387-3003

About: Town of Beech Mountain lakefront park built around 6.5-acre Buckeye Lake (the town's municipal drinking-water reservoir, classified for recreational use) plus 60+ surrounding acres. Outdoor amenities include free kayak/canoe/paddleboat rentals, fishing, a playground (low-ropes style, the only public playground of its kind on Beech Mountain), tennis/pickleball/basketball/volleyball courts, picnic shelters, a campfire area, and a trail to a 20-foot waterfall (currently out-and-back only while the Helene-damaged bridge is repaired). The 22,500-sq-ft indoor Buckeye Recreation Center has a gym, fitness area, indoor courts, walking track, and kid's playroom.

Access status: Limited access

Hours and access: The lake is described as open year-round. Recreation Center hours are Monday-Friday 8:30 AM-7 PM, Saturday 9 AM-5 PM and Sunday 11 AM-5 PM; outdoor access and individual trail conditions may differ.

Cost: Many outdoor amenities are free. Indoor courts and fitness facilities require a membership; visitors may purchase day or week memberships. Free loaner boats are offered during selected months.

Before you go: No swimming or personal watercraft: this is the town drinking-water reservoir. Loaner kayaks and canoes require someone at least 16 to check them out; life jackets are provided. Follow posted fishing-license rules and current trail closures.

Seasonal notes: The official lake page describes year-round recreation. Confirm the current status of the lake loop, Falls Trail bridges and any dredging work with Parks and Recreation before planning a full circuit. Loaner boat availability is seasonal.

Confirm current access and details with the operator before visiting.