Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities. Learn more
Access Site NC

Jackrabbit

Hiwassee River (Chatuge Lake) Shooting Creek

Source: north_carolina_wildlife_resources_commission Updated 1 year ago

City: Hayesville, NC
County: Clay County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 35.01116116, -83.76922271
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
**Access & Facility Details**
Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area offers a two-lane concrete boat ramp providing access to Chatuge Lake on the Hiwassee River. The ramp features primitive parking and is located near Hayesville, NC. From US Highway 64 east of Hayesville, turn right onto NC 175 south and continue 2.5 miles, then follow signs to the ramp. The recreation area is part of Nantahala National Forest and includes campground facilities with three separate camping loops.

**Water Conditions & Character**
The Hiwassee River is a large, powerful waterway (Stream Order 7) with substantial flow averaging nearly 5,000 cubic feet per second and an average gradient of 16.7 feet per mile. Chatuge Lake, where the ramp accesses, represents the impounded portion of the river system. Paddlers should be prepared for strong currents and significant water volume, particularly during high-flow periods. The area is suitable for motorized boating, fishing, and water sports.

**Contact & Recreation**
For reservations, facility information, or questions about current conditions, contact Jackrabbit Mountain Campground at 828-837-5152. The site offers comprehensive recreation including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and mountain biking in addition to water access. Note that ADA accessibility is not available at this location.
Federal Facility Information
828-837-5152 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Jackrabbit Mountain Campground offers scenic lakeside camping in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest of southwestern North Carolina. Campers can breathe the fresh air of the forest while enjoying numerous recreation activities, including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, fishing and water sports at Jackrabbit Recreation Area. The campground contains three seperate camping loops;...

Overview
Jackrabbit Mountain Campground offers scenic lakeside camping in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest of southwestern North Carolina. Campers can breathe the fresh air of the forest while enjoying numerous recreation activities, including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, fishing and water sports at Jackrabbit Recreation Area. The campground contains three seperate camping loops; Loops A is open May - September, and Loop B and C is open May - October.  
Recreation
Lake Chatuge has more than 130 miles of shoreline and plenty of water for recreation. Popular water activities include boating, jet skiing, swimming and fishing. Beach access fee is not included in camping reservation fee and will require on-site payment at fee collection station. Visitors who wish to stay on dry land can explore hiking, biking and shoreline fishing. Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area boasts several hiking trails, and the campground has paved roads for an easy afternoon of bicycling. Mountain bikers can get their wheels dusty on approximately 14 miles of bike-friendly trails.Facilities
This large facility has three loops of well-kept campsites, some of which lie on the water's edge. Families can relax at the swimming beach (May - September), while anglers and boaters can use the boat ramp to access the water. The facility is also equipped with showers, flush toilets and picnic shelters.Natural Features
The campground is located on a peninsula on Lake Chatuge, a dammed lake on the Hiawassee River. The site sits in a mixed deciduous and pine forest at an elevation of 1,860 feet.
Nearby Attractions
Local attractions include the Fires Creek recreation area and the Georgia Mountain State Fair, which occurs in late July each year.Charges & Cancellations
Changes and cancellations must be made through Recreation.gov not the HOST!!

Read More Read Less
Nearby Campgrounds (1 within 10 miles)
Fires Creek Hunters Camp
On-site