Jackrabbit Mountain Campground
About Jackrabbit Mountain Campground
Jackrabbit Mountain Campground, located in the Tusquittee Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest, features 92 campsites across three loops (A, B, and C) on the shores of Lake Chatuge, straddling the NC-GA border. Loops A and B offer open, manicured sites with many overlooking the lake, while Loop C provides denser tree cover for added privacy. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, the campground is open seasonally from May to October, catering to tents, RVs, and trailers (up to 128 feet, no hookups). Its gently rolling terrain and paved roads create a welcoming environment for biking or strolling, with easy access to the Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails and the recreation area’s beach and boat launch. The campground’s clean facilities and lakefront setting make it a favorite for families and lakeside camping.
Lakeside Camping in Hayesville, NC
Situated on a scenic peninsula along Lake Chatuge, Jackrabbit Mountain Campground offers a serene lakeside camping experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Hayesville, NC. Nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, this campground provides a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy hiking, biking, boating, and family-friendly activities. With well-maintained campsites, stunning lake views, and modern amenities, it’s an ideal retreat for those exploring North Carolina and Georgia’s outdoor recreation.
Features of Jackrabbit Campground
- Lakeside Campsites: Loops A and B feature sites with direct Lake Chatuge views, ideal for water lovers, while Loop C offers shaded, private sites.
- Modern Amenities: Clean bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers, plus a dump station and potable water spigots for camper convenience.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Paved roads for biking or rollerblading, a nearby swimming beach, and picnic areas with grills for gatherings.
- Lake Access: Easy access to Lake Chatuge for fishing, kayaking, or launching paddleboards directly from select sites or at the sandy beach of Jackrabbit Recreational Area
- Trail Proximity: A 1.5-mile connector trail links to the Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails for hiking and biking.
- Scenic Beauty: Lightly wooded grounds with manicured lawns and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views.
Visitor Information
- Location: Jackrabbit Mountain Campground, NC-175, Hayesville, NC 28904.
- Directions: From Murphy, NC (US Hwys 19-74-129), take US Hwy 64 East for 18.9 miles, turn right on NC Hwy 175 South, go 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Jack Rabbit Road. Bear left after 250 ft; the campground is straight ahead.
- From Franklin, NC (US Hwy 441), take US Hwy 64 West for 28.3 miles, turn left on NC Hwy 175 South, and follow the same route.
- Operating Season: Loops A (May–September), Loops B and C (May–October).
- Campsites: 92 sites (tent, RV, trailer; no hookups), accommodating vehicles up to 128 feet.
- Fees: $20–$40 per night; $5 daily beach access fee (per vehicle, not included in camping fee). Reserve at Recreation.gov.
- Facilities: Bathhouses with flush toilets and showers, dump station, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, grills, paved roads, and trail connector.
- Activities: Camping, hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming (beach access nearby).
- Safety Tips: Watch for poison ivy near sites. Quiet hours (10 PM–7 AM) are enforced. Check fire restrictions before using fire rings. Dogs must be leashed to respect other campers.
- Reservations: Book via Recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777 . Reservations open 6 months in advance, minimum 2 days prior.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area for boating and swimming or explore TheDyrt.com for camper reviews.
Contact
For Recreation Inquiries
- Clay County Chamber of Commerce
Phone: (828) 389-3704
Website: Clay County Chamber
Address: 2390 NC-69, Hayesville, NC 28904
For trail events, recreation, or tourism info - U.S. Forest Service – Tusquittee Ranger District (NC)
Phone: (828) 837-5152
Website: U.S. Forest Service NC
Address: 123 Woodland Dr, Murphy, NC 28906 - Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (GA)
Phone: (706) 745-6928
Website: U.S. Forest Service GA
Address: 2042 Highway 515 West, Blairsville, GA 30512 - For updates: Contact the Tusquittee Ranger District at (828) 837-5152
Contact: Gary Ward, Advantage Chatuge Realty
Email: gward828@gmail.com
For NC mountain properties near Lake Chatuge, biking, and hiking trails.
Ready to take the next step?
Buying property is a huge investment. Having someone who keeps your interest in mind can mean the difference between a good investment and a poor one. Some realtors only look at the bottom line. Gary Ward of Advantage Chatuge Realty is an honest family man with strong values, that is why we say to always ask for Gary if you are looking for property in this area or if you are wanting to list your property here. It is the only way we can assure you that you are getting the quality, honesty, and assistance you deserve. Working as a Broker for over 25 years in the north Georgia and North Carolina Mountain area, he will show you any available property and will represent you as a buyer’s agent as long as it is not his listing, in that case he is representing the seller and he will tell you that up front. Either way, you will always know where you stand and be well-informed. His knowledge and expertise in the area will put your mind at ease.