Named one of the top 10 most beautiful man-made lakes in the world by National Geographic, Lake Lure takes its shape from surrounding mountain tops and granite cliffs. Rent a canoe or kayak from the public marina, walk through the park along the northern shore, or enjoy the beach area where the kids will love making a splash from the big green slides. In August each year, Patrick Swayze fans flock to Lake Lure for the Dirty Dancing festival to pay tribute to the film, which was partially filmed there. Cool off in the summer with a swim in this crystal clear lake, and in the fall, enjoy the beauty of changing Blue Ridge foliage.