How do I access Long Island?

Long Island is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Long Island?

Long Island 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 Long Island?

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

When is the best time to visit Long Island?

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

What are the water conditions at Long Island?

Water conditions at Long Island include calm, sheltered.

Is Long Island good for beginners?

Yes, Long Island 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.

a small boat sitting on top of a body of water

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockConcessionsLightingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Long Island

Catawba, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Long Island is a public boat ramp on Catawba River (Lake Norman) near Catawba, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. 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

Good

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

About This Location

Public launch on Catawba River (Lake Norman) in North Carolina. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Catawba.

Paddlers visiting Catawba River (Lake Norman) in North Carolina can launch from Long Island, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and concessions and lighting and ada accessible.

Long Island sits about 5 min from Catawba, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Long Island?: Long Island is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Long Island?: Long Island 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 Long Island?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, concessions, lighting, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Long Island?: The best time to paddle at Long Island is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Long Island?: Water conditions at Long Island include calm, sheltered.
Is Long Island good for beginners?: Yes, Long Island 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: 35.6802, -80.9835