Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors

Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors


Lake Cornelius with Joe Marusak

August 25, 2023

Segment 3, August 26th, 2023


There are many places in the Carolinas that are hidden in plain sight.  One of which was recently written about by our friend, Joe Marusak, from the Charlotte Observer.  He’s been working at the Charlotte Observer for over thirty years and covers a ton of stories.


We’re going to learn a little about one of North Carolina’s smaller lakes that hugs up next to NC’s largest manmade lake, Lake Norman.  Joe recently wrote about Lake Davidson & the query of it being a part of Lake Norman.  That story led to an invite to meet Lake Cornelius & this August 22 article.


During this chat with host Bill Bartee from the local Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s, Marusak gives us his first hand experience of adventuring one recent Sunday on Lake Cornelius.


He also let’s us know that all the lakes were formed by Duke Energy when they created the 32,475 acre, Lake Norman. For this reason & the management of the Lake under federal license, both Cornelius & Davidson are considered part of Lake Norman by Duke.


Marusak let’s the listeners of the Carolina Outdoors know about the wildlife, the quietness, & the community of people that seek escape on Lake Cornelius.  Also, that Lake Cornelius is accessed at a YMCA that is located in Davidson, NC.  Just to keep all visitors on their toes.


Oh yes!  Lake Cornelius’s 125-acres is a lot cooler if you’re escaping the heat.  Joe described the shade & breeze that made his Sunday paddle trip pleasant.


This segment of the Carolina Outdoors was powered by the Sonic Fly Rod available in Charlotte at Jesse Brown’s.