There’s Almost Nothing in Life a Day on North Carolina’s Fontana Lake Can’t Cure

Since the mid-1940s, Fontana Lake has provided unparalleled recreation within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a portion of the park's southern border, the lake also provides access by boat to some of the farthest reaches and most remote areas of the park. With steep mountains cradling all sides of the lake (except the reservoir's dam), and endless fun awaiting, there's almost nothing in life that a day on North Carolina's Fontana Lake can't cure. If you're ready to experience one of the best lakes in North Carolina, pack your bags and let's go:

What Makes Lake Fontana So Unique in Western North Carolina

The lake itself is actually a reservoir impounded by the Fontana Dam. The dam is a bit of an engineering marvel! The hydroelectric dam, operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, was built in the 1940s to help with the electricity demands of the surrounding Tennessee Valley area at the height of World War II. Standing tall at 480 feet, it’s the tallest dam in the Eastern United States. When it was constructed, it was the fourth-tallest dam in the world and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

Why Fontana Lake Is One of North Carolina’s Most Stunning Mountain Lakes

Depending on water levels, Fontana Lake is about 17 miles long and has an average depth of 135 feet, though its maximum depth is 440 feet. This secures its spot as the deepest lake in North Carolina! 

The lake is overflowing (pun intended) with endless coves and islands, and it provides access to some of the most remote areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 240 miles of shoreline, it’s truly one of the most beautiful places in North Carolina. As its borders touch the Smokies and the Nantahala National Forest, it’s truly an idyllic spot for anyone seeking a new perspective of North Carolina’s natural landscape. 

In short, there's plenty of room to explore and then find a cove to call your own for a swim or a picnic. From high above, Fontana Lake may look narrow, but when you're out on the water, it's a totally different perspective. Fishing, boating, swimming, and even camping and hiking are favorite activities in and around the lake.

Best Things to Do at Fontana Lake in North Carolina

Several boat ramps provide access all year round, with summer being the busiest season. You'll also find several Fontana Lake boat rental companies peppered around the lake that offer everything from stand-up paddle boards to pontoon boats.

While the northern edge of Fontana Lake provides the border for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the southern shores of the lake provide the border for the Nantahala National Forest. The Tsali Campground, found in the forest and along the shore of the lake, is operated by the Forest Service.

In addition to wonderful campsites carved into the flora of the forest, Tsali Campground also offers mountain biking and horseback riding trails, a boat ramp for launching kayaks and motorized boats, and fishing all year round.

If you've yet to experience a day on Fontana Lake, what are you waiting for? Share this article with someone you want to visit this beautiful North Carolina lake with.

This isn't the only lake in North Carolina with the power to make you forget your worries. Hiwassee Lake is another must-visit lake, too.