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Nantahala/Jackrabbit Mountain
Overview
Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a serene escape within the Nantahala National Forest. Situated on a scenic peninsula jutting into Lake Chatuge, this campground provides a quiet, forested environment for RVers looking to disconnect from the modern world. While it maintains a rustic feel, the park serves as a primary gateway to the diverse landscapes of Western North Carolina, perfectly blending rugged mountainous terrain with extensive shoreline access.
Location & Surroundings
Located just south of Hayesville, NC, the park sits prominently on the shores of Lake Chatuge, a sprawling reservoir straddling the North Carolina and Georgia border. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and dense Appalachian hardwoods, providing ample shade and privacy for most campsites. Travelers will appreciate the park’s proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, which offer a stunning, hazy backdrop for sunsets over the water and a refreshing, cooler climate during the peak summer months.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a traditional Forest Service facility, which means the design priorities are centered on nature rather than high-end luxury. The campground features nearly 100 sites, many of which can accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs, though it is important to note there are no individual water or electric hookups at the sites. Guests have access to several central comfort stations equipped with flush toilets and hot showers. A convenient dump station and potable drinking water are available on-site, ensuring that basic practical needs are met while maintaining a peaceful, primitive camping atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Active outdoor recreation is the primary draw for visitors here, specifically the renowned Jackrabbit Mountain Trail System, which features over 15 miles of machine-built trails popular for mountain biking and hiking. Water enthusiasts can enjoy the designated swimming beach area or launch a motorized vessel from the nearby public boat ramp to explore the vast reaches of Lake Chatuge. Fishing for spotted bass and sunfish is a favorite local pastime, while the nearby town of Hayesville offers charming local dining, historical sites, and small-town shops for a relaxing afternoon.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for boating and mountain biking enthusiasts who prefer a natural, wooded setting over a paved commercial resort. Because there are no hookups provided at the sites, it is best suited for self-contained RVers or those who are comfortable with dry camping for a few days. If you seek a quiet, family-friendly environment where the morning sounds of the forest and the gentle lapping of lake water take center stage, Jackrabbit Mountain is an excellent choice for your next North Carolina adventure.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Rebecca Kraus
Very nice campground with a clean bathhouse! Took a group of 15 year old boys here for a birthday, and they had the best time in the lake, which was right at the campsite. Very affordable spot.
Donna West
We have always loved Jack rabbit campground until this year (2025).we went to stay 2 nights. We made the required reservation . When we got there, we had no Campground Host. Someone was in our site. We had to ask them to leave. They did, but the site next us gathered around 15 women, which were loud and drinking . They didn't even care we were next to them. They did this until about 10 pm. Also, since there was no host, people were driving around trying to get spots. I'm pretty sure they didn't have required reservations or paid for the site. If this is going to be the new normal, we will not be back. I'm giving the rating a 2 only because the bathroom was clean and the grass was mowed.
Randy Herrmann
Chatuge Lake has become a favorite destination. This campground was probably about 1/2 full on a weekend in late October so it was perfect. Boat ramp was located just a minute from the campsite with more than enough parking space and access to biking and hiking trails. Bathrooms were spotless and other campers were quiet and respectful. Several potable water stations scattered throughout the campground, a dump station, showers, bathrooms, etc. Will definitely return.
Lauren Atl
I spent a 3 day weekend camping here and enjoyed my stay. There are public restrooms with showers, however handsoap and paper towels are not provided be sure to pack your own or bring sanitizer. Toilet paper did run out twice during my 3 day weekend stay, I recommend packing toilet paper as well. Camp ground has drinking water access but no electric, even in the RV sites. Cell service was 2 to 3 bars of 4G on average (I have at&t 5g) Easy access to boat ramps and the beach from Loop A. Dumpsters on site for trash. Leashed pets aloud in campsites but not on beaches. No alcohol permitted. Trails are nice, lots of wild life active in the area.
CM
This place was great! We loved being able to bring it dogs and camp right next to the lake with our own access to swim. My daughter and doggies loved it. Even though it was hot during the day, it cooled off at night and there were zero bugs biting. The area was quiet and not busy when we were there.