If you picture mornings by a quiet lake, shaded streets under mature trees, and an active calendar right in your neighborhood, Lochmere in Cary might be your spot. You want convenience without giving up nature, plus a community that feels established and well cared for. In this guide, you will learn how daily life flows in Lochmere, what amenities are resident-only, how the HOA works, and what to expect from the homes and location. Let’s dive in.
Location and first impressions
Lochmere sits in east Cary with a main entrance near Kildaire Farm Road and Lochmere Drive. It is a master-planned community known for large trees, winding streets, and three scenic lakes that set a calm tone for daily life. The HOA describes the neighborhood’s history and layout on its About Us page. Local coverage also notes Lochmere spans nearly two dozen sub-neighborhoods with roughly 1,900 homes, which contributes to its lively yet residential feel (Cary Spotlight overview).
Lakes and trails at your doorstep
Water is a defining feature here. Lochmere centers on three lakes, including Lochmere Lake, Loch Lomond, and Highlands Lake. The HOA maintains the lakes and the adjacent common areas, and posts clear guidance about use on its lake rules page.
Lake rules you should know
- No swimming in any lakes.
- Fishing is allowed with restrictions. Bass are typically catch and release, while some panfish may be kept per HOA guidance.
- Boats on Lochmere Lake require a resident boating permit decal. The HOA lists a small per-boat sticker fee and allows only electric trolling motors to preserve a quiet environment. See details on the HOA’s lake page.
- Trails and lake edges are primarily for residents and their accompanied guests. Follow posted signage and HOA rules.
Trails and nearby nature
Lochmere offers about 10 miles of internal trails that vary in surface, from asphalt to gravel. The 1.1‑mile loop around Loch Lomond is for walkers only, which keeps it peaceful for strollers and morning laps. You can browse map options and surfaces on the Lochmere trail maps.
If you want a public nature outing, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is close by and includes boardwalks, mulched trails, and the Stevens Nature Center. Get the latest on hours and programs from the Town of Cary’s Hemlock Bluffs page.
Pools, courts and active living
Pools and summer programs
Lochmere maintains multiple pools that support everyday recreation and summer programming. The Lochwood main facility features a large pool with a diving board and water slide, plus a separate 25‑yard, four‑lane lap pool. The Highlands area also has a pool and clubhouse used for neighborhood gatherings. Because seasonal hours and counts can change, check the HOA’s current details on the Aquatics page.
Typical seasonal offerings include resident swim lessons, a community swim team, water aerobics, and early-morning lap swim. Access usually requires current registration with the HOA office and a valid amenity pass.
Tennis and pickleball culture
Tennis has long roots here, with lighted courts at the Lochwood main complex and additional courts at Highlands. Pickleball has its own momentum, with marked courts at Highlands, an online reservation system, and posted open-play hours that make it easy to meet neighbors. For the latest schedules and etiquette, review the HOA’s pickleball page.
Golf, playgrounds and more
Golfers appreciate having the semi-private Lochmere Golf Club right next door for lessons, leagues, or weekend tee times. You can read about membership and public play options on the club’s page. Around the neighborhood, you will also find small playgrounds and informal disc‑golf features sprinkled through the green spaces.
Day-to-day rhythm and convenience
What a typical day looks like
Mornings often start with walkers circling Loch Lomond and dog owners heading out on shaded sidewalks. You might spot anglers or birdwatchers along the lake edges, keeping a respectful distance from private property. Late afternoons are busiest at the pools, tennis, and pickleball courts, with socials or fitness classes at the Highlands clubhouse on the calendar.
Shopping, dining and errands
Daily needs are easy. Residents often mention Lochmere Pavilion for quick stops, Waverly Place for Whole Foods, dining and a movie, and Crossroads Plaza for bigger retail runs. These hubs are a short drive from most parts of the neighborhood and help keep errands efficient.
Getting around the Triangle
From Lochmere you have straightforward access to US‑1, I‑40, and NC‑540, which simplifies drives to RTP, downtown Raleigh, or RDU. Travel times depend on the hour, but the road network is a key reason many buyers consider Lochmere.
Schools and enrollment basics
Lochmere is within Wake County Public Schools. Nearby schools that are often listed in real estate summaries include Penny Road Elementary, Dillard Drive Middle, and Cary High, with some addresses feeding into nearby alternatives. Boundaries can shift, and streets within Lochmere may map to different schools, so use the WCPSS address lookup or confirm with the listing agent for a specific home.
HOA, fees and access
Lochmere is an HOA community. Amenities such as lakes, internal trails, pools, and courts are primarily for residents and their accompanied guests. Court reservations, pool check‑ins, and clubhouse use typically require an HOA login or registered access.
As of the most recent HOA posting, the Association published the 2026 annual assessment at $836. Because budgets can change, verify the current amount with the HOA office or review the Association’s assessment reminder post. If a home sits in a sub‑association, there may be additional dues, which you should confirm in the listing documents.
For lake use, remember that boats require HOA decals, motors are limited to electric trolling, and swimming is not allowed. You can find the full policy language on the HOA’s lake rules page.
Homes and market snapshot
Lochmere offers a mix of townhomes, mid-size single-family homes, and larger lakefront or golf‑course properties. Most homes were built from the mid‑1980s through the 1990s, and lots tend to be larger than in many newer subdivisions, which means shade, privacy, and a mature landscape.
Recent summaries often show median pricing in the mid to high $700s, but numbers move with supply, updates, and location within the neighborhood. If you want current pricing and on‑market trends, ask for a custom MLS report tailored to your specific home style and budget.
Community vibe and social life
Lochmere’s social fabric is part of its appeal. Resident-run groups range from book clubs to tennis and pickleball socials and the Young Families of Lochmere. You can see a snapshot of opportunities on the Lochmere clubs page. The HOA also coordinates Community Watch communications and periodic meetings with local partners, which helps neighbors stay informed.
Is Lochmere a fit for you
You might love Lochmere if you value lakeside scenery, walkable loops under tall trees, and amenities that make it easy to stay active. Buyers who want an established setting with pools and courts, plus straightforward regional access, tend to connect with this neighborhood. If you prefer a bustle of public trailheads or a clubhouse open to the broader public, Lochmere’s resident-only model may feel more private than you want.
Ready to explore homes or learn how your property compares within Lochmere’s sub‑neighborhoods? Reach out to Margie Ax for local guidance and a tailored plan. Let’s Connect — Request a Free Home Valuation.
FAQs
Can you swim in the lakes in Lochmere, Cary?
- No. The HOA does not permit swimming in any Lochmere lakes. You can review lake use rules on the community’s Our Lakes page.
Are Lochmere’s trails open to the public?
- Most internal trails and lakeside areas are for residents and accompanied guests. For public nature walks, consider the Town of Cary’s Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve.
What are the boating rules for Lochmere Lake?
- Boats require HOA permit decals, the Association lists a small per‑boat sticker fee, and only electric trolling motors are allowed. See full details on the HOA lake rules.
Are the pools and courts open to non-residents in Lochmere?
- Generally no. Pools, courts, and the clubhouse are for residents and their guests, with reservations and schedules managed by the HOA. Check current details on the Aquatics and Pickleball pages.
How much are Lochmere HOA dues?
- The HOA published the 2026 annual assessment at $836, and some properties may have additional sub‑association dues. Verify current amounts with the Association or see the assessment reminder.
Which schools serve the Lochmere area in Cary?
- Lochmere is within Wake County Public Schools. Commonly referenced nearby schools include Penny Road Elementary, Dillard Drive Middle, and Cary High, but assignments vary by address. Confirm using the WCPSS address lookup.
