Lake Wylie was formed in 1904 when the Catawba Power Company built a dam across the Catawba River in the India Hook area of Rock Hill. The dam was raised in 1925, bringing the lake to its current levels today. The dam and Lake Wylie are now managed and controlled by Duke Energy.

Waterfront homes on Lake Wylie range in price from the 400's and up. The lake is easily accessible to the public with several marinas, boat ramps, and waterfront parks available. In addition to the lake, there are several nearby golf courses which are open year round.