Lake Wylie Information

Lake Wylie is located 17 miles southwest of Charlotte, NC and borders with neighboring South Carolina. First created in 1904 by a dam near Fort Mill, SC, Lake Wylie is one of the oldest reservoirs in South Carolina. It is supplied by the Catawba River which was named for the Native American tribe who first lived in the area, the Catawba Indians. In their own language, the Indians’ name for themselves is Yap Ye Iswe which means “People of the River.”

The dam was rebuilt in 1924 and the lake’s surface expanded to approximately 13,443 acres and 325 miles of shoreline.

In 1960, the reservoir and hydroelectric facility were renamed in honor of Dr. W. Gil Wylie, who organized the Catawba Power Company, a predecessor of Duke Energy. In addition to supporting Wylie Hydroelectric Station, Lake Wylie also supports Allen Steam Station and Catawba Nuclear Station with cooling water and provides a dependable water supply for Lake Wylie, Rock Hill, SC and Belmont, NC. (History courtesy of SC Department of Natural Resources)

Thousands of nearby residents enjoy fishing and boating fun 12-months a year due to the Carolina’s mild winter temperatures. Six species of recreational fish are monitored and stocked to maintain a healthy supply for the avid fisherman. Lake Wylie also hosts many fishing tournaments well attended by both pro and semi-pro bass fishermen and women.

Residential communities surrounding the lake vary in options from wooded lots, park-like shorelines and resort-type condominiums. Many undeveloped lots of waterfront property are available, and existing real estate options offer new residents beautiful choices.