Although specifically designed for water skiing, Lake Kristi is also used as a cross country course.

The lake was built as the nearest location for water skiing at the time was a river over 1 hour away.

[2] The lake's surrounding area, approximately 300 acres (120 ha), is predominantly used for cross country running meetings, including National Collegiate Athletic Association Regional Championships (2003 & 2005) and Conference USA Championship (2001 & 2006) meets.

[3] Lake Kristi hosted Greenville's first Pro Tour event as part of the U.S.

[4] In 1989, Lake Kristi was listed as one of over 150 supersites in the United States, with only three of these sites being in North Carolina.