Lake life? (Raleigh, Gaston: rentals, house, camping)

[beckycat]

What's the closest lake that has bar/restaurants right on the lake where you can pull right up on your boat? Maybe a summer spot where everyone goes to hang out. Someplace where people go on the weekends just to get away? I know about Lake Royale but I'm not sure if they have something like this.

[suedonym]

im not aware of any lakes like that (lots of places in morehead city and beaufort down on the coast though)

there may be lake spots like that, but ive never heard of any...

[Mom2TwinsCary]

Lake Gaston or Smith Mountain Lake.
Both might be further than you want to go though.

[North_Raleigh_Guy]

I agree that Lake Gaston and Smith Mountain Lake are your likely choices.

Here are some pics/info from a trip I took to Lake Gaston a while back.

[beckycat]

Thanks. Do they offer rentals along the lake?

[Mom2TwinsCary]

Yes.

Smith mountain has cabin rentals - some with docks.

We have always stayed with friends at Lake Gaston, but I know they rented their house out when they were not using it. So, maybe private rentals.

I have never found either place to have a really lively nightlife though.

[beckycat]

I see they offer camping too. What do they offer as far as bands at restaurants on the lake? Any names of the places?

[beckycat]

Originally Posted by suedonym

im not aware of any lakes like that (lots of places in morehead city and beaufort down on the coast though)

there may be lake spots like that, but ive never heard of any...

I was thinking it would be popular by the beach/coast which I really like. I was just thinking about something closer to Raleigh than the beach. Although, the beach is definately not out.

[BalGal]

^^Honestly, the beach is just as close unless you prefer the lake?

[beckycat]

Originally Posted by BalGal

^^Honestly, the beach is just as close unless you prefer the lake?

I prefer the beach hands down. What are the names of some of the restaurants on the coast that have entertainment?