The beloved 1987 film Dirty Dancing was primarily filmed in two distinct locations: Lake Lure, North Carolina, and Mountain Lake, Virginia.
Iconic Filming Locations of Dirty Dancing
The quintessential summer resort atmosphere of "Kellerman's Mountain House" in Dirty Dancing was brought to life by combining the natural beauty of two specific sites in the United States. Principal photography for the film took place across these picturesque regions, creating the memorable backdrop for Baby and Johnny's unforgettable summer.
Lake Lure, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure served as a significant filming location for many of the movie's outdoor and water-based scenes. This included the iconic lake lift practice, the log-walking scene, and various other sequences that showcased the film's beautiful natural setting. The lake's surroundings provided the lush, green scenery that evoked the fictional Catskills resort.
Mountain Lake, Virginia
The historic Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia, played a crucial role as the real-life stand-in for "Kellerman's Mountain House." This resort provided the main exterior shots of the lodge, its grounds, and several interior scenes, giving the film its distinct architectural and atmospheric feel. The lodge's unique stone structures and surrounding forest were integral to establishing the film's immersive 1960s summer camp ambiance.
These two locations, combined, provided the perfect setting for the film's narrative, transporting audiences to the idyllic — and sometimes dramatic — world of Dirty Dancing.
Filming Location Breakdown
To illustrate the specific contributions of each location, consider the following:
| Location | State | Key Scenes and Role in the Film |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Lure | North Carolina | This scenic lake was essential for capturing all the outdoor water activities, including the famous scene where Johnny attempts to teach Baby the lift in the water, as well as the moments involving the staff cabins and the iconic log balancing. Its natural beauty perfectly encapsulated the lush summer environment. |
| Mountain Lake Lodge | Virginia | Serving as the primary stand-in for "Kellerman's," this lodge provided many of the exterior shots of the resort, including the main building where guests stayed and dined. Some interior scenes, such as those in the lobby and certain guest rooms, were also filmed here, contributing significantly to the film's period feel and authentic resort atmosphere. Note: The lake at Mountain Lake has experienced periodic draining over the years. |
