Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region lies the serene Tuckertown Reservoir, a hidden gem that seamlessly blends the power of hydroelectricity with the preservation of natural habitats and breathtaking scenery. Spanning 2500 acres, Tuckertown Reservoir, also known as Tuckertown Lake, stands out as a picturesque haven that safeguards vast wetlands and forests. Its origins trace back to the construction of a dam by Alcoa Power Generating Inc. on the Yadkin River, just a stone’s throw from their existing High Rock Dam. Despite being part of the Alcoa Yadkin Project, Tuckertown Reservoir was deliberately left undeveloped from the outset to nurture the indigenous wildlife of North Carolina, setting it apart from the bustling recreational hub of nearby High Rock Lake. By carefully curbing private development along its 75-mile shoreline, with a mere 2% of the land developed, APGI ensured that Tuckertown’s natural splendor remains largely untouched. Conservation measures and wetlands protection shield a vast expanse of 65% of the shoreline.
In contrast, a thickly forested buffer zone shields the few lakefront homes, camouflaging them from the water’s vantage point. While Tuckertown Lake serves as a haven for boating enthusiasts, from anglers to water sports enthusiasts, it predominantly attracts fishing boats, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling waters. The regular hum of fishing boats is occasionally punctuated by the buzz of water and jet skiers on busy weekends.
Locals favor drifting on pontoon boats, doubling up as impromptu docks when tethered to the shore, as the lake prohibits private dock construction. Tuckertown Lake eschews campgrounds and commercial enterprises, preserving its rustic charm, unlike its neighboring counterparts. APGI retains ownership of a significant portion of the land surrounding the lake, designating it as North Carolina Game Lands for public recreational use under State Game Land regulations. Situated 60 miles northeast of Charlotte, Tuckertown Reservoir spans Davidson, Stanly, Montgomery, and Rowan Counties, encapsulating a serene slice of the Yadkin Waterway. This idyllic locale is a hotspot for esteemed pastimes like crappie fishing, with anglers flocking to the lake to reel in hefty two-pounders. The well-stocked waters also yield largemouth and striped bass, offering prime fishing grounds for trolling motor enthusiasts. Fishing docks dot some public launch sites, with plans underway to enhance bank fishing prospects. Tuckertown Reservoir is a haven for dedicated fishermen, boasting excellent bottom structures that nurture robust fish populations. Beyond the enchanting waters of Tuckertown Reservoir lies a myriad of recreational possibilities. The lake’s proximity to the Uwharrie National Forest, with a wealth of camping, fishing, hiking, and equestrian facilities, adds to its allure. Wildlife enthusiasts flock to witness bald eagles near the Narrows Dam, where the birds feast on fish stunned by the adjacent generation turbines. For those seeking a dash of history, Boones Cave Park offers a peek into the local lore surrounding teenaged Daniel Boone.
Meanwhile, Asheboro’s eclectic offerings, including the renowned Asheboro Zoo, captivate visitors just a stone’s throw away. An array of accommodations, from private rentals to nearby hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds, cater to visitors exploring the enchanting Tuckertown Reservoir. A journey to Tuckertown Reservoir promises a harmonious blend of nature and recreation, beckoning visitors to return repeatedly.