Long-awaited Lake Norman beach to open Memorial Day weekend

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Local leaders celebrated Tuesday the opening of Ramsey Creek Park Beach off Lake Norman. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held in the morning.

Mecklenburg County commissioner Pat Cotham jumped in the water.

“I would say the rocks were a little uncomfortable on my feet so I would probably saw wear your flip flops when you go in,” Cotham said.

With Memorial Day just around the corner, families can finally take their children to a beach close to home. It's the only public beach in Mecklenburg County and large crowds are expected for such a small swim area.

Genni Reel is the aquatic manger with Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation.

She said the swim area can be up to 6 feet at full pond. On Tuesday, the water was about 4-and-a-half feet deep. She said half a dozen life guards will be staffed at the beach this weekend. She said the lifeguard’s job is to keep an eye on young visitors.

“One of the goals was to provide a safe environment on Lake Norman for the public to swim,” Reel said.

Parking may be tricky for some families this busy holiday weekend. There are only 127 spots at Ramsey Creek Park, and parking is $3 per car. Officials said 500 people are allowed on the beach.

Lisa Kwiatkowski said she’s not too worried about overcrowding, but says it could happen.

“Maybe on the weekends it will be a little difficult, but we will see,” she said.

A traffic light was planned at the entrance of the park, but that hasn't happened yet. Police will be out there this weekend helping direct traffic.

The beach will open this Saturday at 10:30 a.m. It will be open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. Officials said they will be giving out free suntan lotion Saturday.

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