fishing

From Atlanta, GA 113 mi From Chattanooga, TN 115 mi From Asheville, NC 103 mi From Greenville, SC 114 mi Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Chatuge just over the North Carolina state line is Jackrabbit Mountain Recreational Area. This recreation and campground area is located on the outskirts of Hayesville, N.C. and Hiawassee, GA which shares this T.V.A. lake that is surrounded by stunning mountain views. This popular destination is part of the beautiful Nantahala National Forest of southwestern North Carolina. Visitors and campers can breathe the fresh air of the forest while enjoying numerous activities, including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, fishing and water sports. Mountain bikers can get their wheels dusty along the area’s 15-mile stacked-loop system. Many of the trails border Lake Chatuge, while others meander through the woods or ridge-top. These trails appeal to riders of all skill levels. If you are interested in hiking, try the Jackrabbit Mountain Trail with a trailhead just outside the campground; this 2.4-mile easy trail loops through open woods and offers glimpses of the lake. Lake Chatuge has more than 130 miles of shoreline and plenty of water for recreation. A short trail connects the campground and a sandy beach area that has an access fee. The beach is designated for swimming and is surrounded by picnic tables on a large grassy lawn. Popular water activities include boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding and fishing. The lake is filled with a bounty of fish ranging from spotted, white and striped bass to catfish, crappie and sun-fish. Launch your boat and fish from the lake, or try the accessible fishing pier located near the swim beach. Three campground loops offer 92 wooded sites and most provide views of Lake Chatuge. Several sites in Loops A and B can accommodate RVs, but no hook-ups are available, as this is a primitive campground. The recreational area is also equipped with showers, restroom facilities and picnic shelters. Registered campers may access the on-site RV dump station. Reserve a site at visit www.recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777. From Hayesville, NC: Take US 64E for 6.2 miles. Turn right onto NC 175, and go 2.5 miles. From Hiawassee, GA: Take GA-75N for about 3.5 miles to the NC/GA state line. Turn on SR 1155, which turns into Forest Service Road 248.