Kings Mountain Reservoir, also known as Moss Lake or John H. Moss Reservoir, is a 1,280 to 1,600-acre impoundment of Buffalo Creek in Cleveland County, North Carolina. Created in 1974 to provide water for local communities, the lake has 57 miles of shoreline and offers several recreation sites and boat ramps for paddlers to access the water.

The reservoir allows swimming, though there are no designated beach areas. Most visitors swim from their boats in summer. Paddlers can enjoy exploring the lake's numerous coves and inlets. The wooded shoreline provides scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Fishing is popular on Kings Mountain Reservoir. Anglers can expect to find largemouth bass, striped bass, spotted bass, white bass, crappie, catfish, and carp. The lake's varied fish population adds interest for paddlers who may spot fish activity.

A campground is available at John H. Moss Lake City Camp Ground, located right on the lakeshore. This provides an option for paddlers looking to spend multiple days exploring the reservoir.

While motorized boats are allowed on the lake, the overall character tends to be peaceful. The lake's size allows paddlers to find quieter areas away from other boat traffic. Early mornings or weekdays may offer the calmest conditions for paddling.

Paddlers should be aware that conditions on the lake can change quickly. It's advisable to check weather forecasts and be prepared for wind or storms. As with any large body of water, wearing a personal flotation device is essential for safety.

The lake's proximity to Kings Mountain State Park and Crowders Mountain State Park provides opportunities to combine paddling with hiking or other outdoor activities in the area. The nearby Kings Branch offers a 2-mile whitewater run for more adventurous paddlers, though conditions should be checked before attempting.