How do I access Black Bear?

Black Bear is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Black Bear?

Black Bear supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Black Bear?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, lighting, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Black Bear?

The best time to paddle at Black Bear is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Black Bear?

Water conditions at Black Bear include calm, sheltered.

Is Black Bear good for beginners?

Yes, Black Bear is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

person riding blue kayak on lake during daytime

Photo by Gene Gallin on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockLightingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Black Bear

Glenwood, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Black Bear is a public boat ramp on Catawba River (Lake James) near Glenwood, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Black Bear near Glenwood, North Carolina. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Catawba River (Lake James) in North Carolina, Black Bear is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and lighting and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Glenwood, Black Bear is a convenient option for Glenwood-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Black Bear ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Black Bear?: Black Bear is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Black Bear?: Black Bear supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Black Bear?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, lighting, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Black Bear?: The best time to paddle at Black Bear is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Black Bear?: Water conditions at Black Bear include calm, sheltered.
Is Black Bear good for beginners?: Yes, Black Bear is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 35.7482, -81.9669