Lake Brandt Greensboro
A serene natural escape in Greensboro, NC, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Lake Brandt Greensboro
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural escape in Greensboro, NC, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails.
"This is a paradise and I would recommend visiting Lake Brandt to everyone!"
🛶 Rent Watercraft Early
Rentals like kayaks and paddleboards are popular. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure yours.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking & Paddleboarding Adventures
Lake Brandt Marina
Glide across the calm waters, surrounded by nature. Rentals available for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
Nat Greene Trail Exploration
Various trailheads
Hike or bike nearly 50 miles of natural surface trails with scenic lake views and lush forests.
Palmetto Trail Boardwalks
Palmetto Trail section
Experience unique boardwalks over lowlands with beautiful views of Lake Brandt.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors: Kayaking & Trails
Best Times for Peaceful Exploration
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Rent Watercraft Early
Rentals like kayaks and paddleboards are popular. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure yours. +1
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring. +1
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
There are no concessions on-site. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks for your adventure.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The lake and surrounding nature offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Rent Watercraft Early
Rentals like kayaks and paddleboards are popular. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure yours. +1
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring. +1
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
There are no concessions on-site. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks for your adventure.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The lake and surrounding nature offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🎣 Fishing License Needed
If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid fishing license.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lake Brandt's natural beauty and recreational opportunities, particularly kayaking and hiking. The scenic trails and peaceful atmosphere are frequently praised. However, some find the lack of concessions and seasonal rental limitations disappointing, and occasional loud music can detract from the tranquility for some.
"Lake Brandt is such a beautiful place. I really enjoy taking pictures of the lake and the surrounding area. The marina is very nice and offers canoe rentals.
There are so many trails (hiking and biking) to explore around the outskirts of the lake.
There are plenty of places to park and restrooms are available in Bur-Mil Park.
This is a paradise and I would recommend visiting Lake Brandt to everyone!"
dan jones
"Great place to kayak, paddleboard, rowboat, etc. No swimming allowed, though. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and rowboats. There is a small pier here, and fishing is permitted with a valid license. Bring your cooler with drinks and snacks as there is not a place to buy such things. There are hiking trails around the lake, and there are mountain bike trails just down the road. Maybe a quarter mile away on the opposite side of the lake entrance. There are restrooms near the check-in station. There is also a boat ramp available. No water skiing or pull behind rafts allowed!
I personally love to go paddleboarding here. It is a great spot for restoring your inner peace, sun, and nature. Highly recommended if you love the outdoors!"
David Garrison
"My absolute favorite place to swim! Clean and beautiful with plenty of space. My only complaint is people most of the time blast music without considering others.. but not many people mind that. There's porta potties and benches. I wish it was open longer."
Jane Doe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Brandt is located in Greensboro, NC. Access points include the Lake Brandt Marina and various trailheads along the A&Y Greenway and other surrounding trails. Driving is the most common way to reach the lake, with ample parking available at designated areas like Bur-Mil Park. +1
Public transportation options directly to Lake Brandt are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to access the lake and its trailheads.
Parking is available at the Lake Brandt Marina and within Bur-Mil Park, which offers access to restrooms and trailheads.
Yes, there are multiple trailheads. The Nathaniel Greene Trailhead at Lake Brandt Marina is a popular starting point for the Nat Greene Trail. Other access points can be found along the A&Y Greenway.
Consult local park maps or use navigation apps that highlight trail entrances. Many social media posts showcase specific access points for popular trails like the Nat Greene Trail. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to Lake Brandt for hiking and enjoying the scenery is free. There are fees associated with renting watercraft.
While the park grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours, specific rental facilities like the marina may have seasonal operating hours. It's best to check their official schedule, especially for watercraft rentals which often start in May.
Rental prices vary. For example, a solo kayak or paddleboard might cost around $15, while a tandem kayak or canoe could be $25. These prices are subject to change.
Yes, a boat ramp is available for launching personal watercraft. However, water skiing and pull-behind rafts are not permitted.
Access to Bur-Mil Park itself is typically free, but specific activities or amenities within the park might have associated costs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, rowing, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Photography and simply enjoying nature are also popular activities. +2
No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Brandt. The focus is on boating, fishing, and trail activities.
Yes, restrooms are available near the check-in station at the marina and within Bur-Mil Park.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Lake Brandt with a valid license. It's a popular spot for anglers.
The area is home to native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local wildlife during your visit. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions or restaurants directly at Lake Brandt. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are benches available, and you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy by the lake.
For dining, you'll need to head back into Greensboro. The city offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina area, scenic overlooks along the trails, and the water itself offer great photographic opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning.
Drone usage is permitted in some areas, as evidenced by various drone videos shared online. However, always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. +1
Early mornings and late afternoons, often referred to as the 'golden hours,' provide the best natural light for photography. Foggy mornings can also create a dramatic atmosphere.
Common subjects include the lake's reflections, water activities like kayaking, the surrounding trees and foliage, and wildlife. +2
While specific photography tours aren't widely advertised, local nature groups or conservancies sometimes organize guided walks that can be great for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Restrooms are available at the marina and in Bur-Mil Park, which is convenient for families. While swimming isn't allowed, the overall natural setting provides a great environment for children to connect with the outdoors.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
+1Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, to maximize the sense of tranquility. The natural scenery, from the water to the trees, is perfect for unwinding and restoring inner peace.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Be sure to explore different trails and water access points to find unique compositions. While drone usage is common, always be aware of and respect any posted regulations and other visitors enjoying the park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Lake Brandt
For a different perspective, the Palmetto Trail features unique boardwalks that traverse the area's lowlands, providing a distinct natural experience.
Many trails connect to the larger A&Y Greenway, allowing for longer excursions. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, as some trails can be rugged. Pro Tip: Check local trail maps or apps for detailed route information and difficulty ratings. Some trails are better suited for mountain biking, while others are ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Water Activities on Lake Brandt
+2Rowboats are also available for rent, and fishing is permitted with a valid license. It's important to note that swimming is not allowed in Lake Brandt, and activities like water skiing are prohibited.
Rental Tip: Watercraft rentals typically begin in May and can be in high demand, especially on weekends. It's advisable to check rental availability and operating hours in advance, and consider arriving early to secure your preferred watercraft.
Photography Opportunities
The surrounding lush forests and foliage provide vibrant colors, particularly during the fall season. Don't miss the chance to capture the unique atmosphere of a foggy winter morning or the serene beauty of a summer day.
Best Light: Aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – for the most flattering light. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific drone regulations if you plan to fly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit