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Badin Lake Trail

Uwharrie National Forest, North Carolina · 3 min read

Distance
6.8 mi
Elevation Gain
650 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
Year-round
Est. Time
3-4 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Badin Lake shoreline views throughout the western section of the trail
  • Mixed loblolly pine and hardwood forest typical of the Uwharrie Piedmont
  • Swimming and fishing access at Badin Lake
  • Good combination hike-and-swim destination in summer
  • Year-round trail access with mild Piedmont winters
lakeswimmingwildlife

Overview

Badin Lake Trail loops around the western shores of Badin Lake in the eastern section of Uwharrie National Forest, combining lakeshore views with the mixed pine-hardwood forest typical of the North Carolina Piedmont. The 6.8-mile loop has modest elevation gain of around 650 feet, with short climbs over the low ridges between the lake and the forest interior. This trail is particularly popular in summer when the combination of hiking and swimming access to Badin Lake makes for a full half-day outing.

No permit is required for day hiking. Badin Lake Campground sites require reservation fees. Dogs are welcome on leash.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Lake shore section. The trail follows the western shoreline of Badin Lake for the first two miles, with water views frequent and the forest providing intermittent shade. The lake edges are lined with sweet pepperbush and buttonbush in lower wet areas, with loblolly pine and hardwood canopy above. Ospreys and great blue herons fish these shallows regularly.

Miles 2.0 to 4.5: Forest interior. The trail swings away from the lake into the forest interior, crossing several low ridges and small drainages. The forest here is more typical Uwharrie mixed pine-hardwood, with shortleaf and loblolly pine, white oak, and red maple. Deer trails are frequently visible crossing the main path.

Miles 4.5 to 6.8: Return to trailhead. The final section returns toward the lake, with the campground and parking area coming into view through the trees in the last half mile.

When to Hike

Year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Summer is best for the combination of hiking and swimming. Fall offers leaf color and comfortable temperatures. Spring brings wildflowers in the interior forest sections. Winter is mild and quiet.

What to Bring

Carry at least 1.5 liters of water. Water is available at the campground, but the trail itself has no water sources. Sunscreen is worth bringing for the exposed lakeside sections. A swimsuit and towel are a good addition in summer.

Trailhead Access

Access the trailhead from Forest Road 597 via NC-109. The Badin Lake Recreation Area has paved parking near the boat launch and campground. The trail departs from the campground entrance area. Flush restrooms are available at the campground.

Nearby

The Wood Run Trail is a 4-mile loop nearby popular with mountain bikers. The Uwharrie National Recreation Trail is the forest's main hiking corridor, accessible a short drive west. Review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide before your visit.

Trailhead Parking

Badin Lake Recreation Area parking off Forest Road 597. Restrooms at the campground. Day-use parking near the boat launch. No fee for day hiking.

← Back to Uwharrie National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I swim at Badin Lake after hiking the Badin Lake Trail?
Yes. Badin Lake Campground has a designated swimming area near the boat launch. After hiking the loop, the lake is a short walk from the parking area. The swimming area is informal (no lifeguard), so swimming is at your own judgment. The lake is clean and popular with campers and day visitors alike.
Is Badin Lake Trail good year-round?
Yes. The trail's low elevation and mild Piedmont climate make it accessible in all seasons. Summer mornings before 10am are comfortable even when afternoon temperatures rise. Winter is pleasant, with an open canopy in the pine sections and mild temperatures. Fall color from the hardwoods peaks in October.
Are there fishing opportunities along the Badin Lake Trail?
Badin Lake supports largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake is part of the Yadkin-Pee Dee river system managed by Alcoa Power Generating Inc., and fishing requires a valid North Carolina fishing license. Shore fishing is possible from several points along the trail and from the recreation area.