Lake Santeetlah Camping

Lake Santeetlah camping trips are a delightful way to explore one of the most beautiful Smoky Mountain Blueways found in Western North Carolina. Lake Santeetlah is a pristine mountain lake surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest. By day the clouds and mountains are reflected in the blue waters of the lake and by night the sky glitters with uncountable stars. Camping on Lake Santeetlah means you get a front row seat to all of this area’s scenic views and amazing outdoor recreational activities.

Santeetlah Camping in Tents and RVs

There are a variety of different Lake Santeetlah camping options available. Set up your tent at one of over fifty primitive camping sites along Joyce Kilmer Road, which runs along the shores of Lake Santeetlah. These free sites feel secluded and many are close enough to the water to take a quick swim. There are also nearby campgrounds and RV parks, including Cheoah Point Recreation Area and Horse Cove. The Town of Lake Santeetlah and nearby Robbinsville are the closest places to pick up last minute supplies for your trip.

Things to Do on Your Lake Santeetlah Vacation

Bring your bathing suit, hiking boots, fishing tackle, and kayak or canoe on your Lake Santeetlah camping trip. Here is a list of five fun activities you can do in and around the lake:

• Hike on nearby trails in the Nantahala National Forest and Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest or on the famous Appalachian Trail.
• Paddle on crystal clear waters.
• Rent a boat or jetski from a local marina.
• Fish for bluegill, bass, lake trout, catfish, crappie, walleye, bream
• Drive or bike on the Cherohala Skyway and the Tail of the Dragon

These are just a few of the recreational activities you may enjoy on your Lake Santeetlah camping vacation. Other nearby Blueways offer other opportunities such as whitewater rafting, whitewater paddling and waterfall gazing. Make a trip to Santeetlah part of a full outdoors adventure vacation in the Smokies of North Carolina.