Jackrabbit Mountain
4.63287 reviews465 JACKRABBIT ROAD
Jackrabbit Mountain
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees for standard non-electric sites range from $20 to $40 per night, depending on site type. RV non-electric sites are $20 per night, and additional fees may apply for holiday weekends. Discounts for Interagency Pass holders apply only to recreation use fees.
About this campground
Perched on a scenic peninsula where forest meets water, Jackrabbit Mountain campground invites adventurers to experience the best of the Nantahala National Forest. Here, morning mist rises from Lake Chatuge as campers wake to the calls of woodland birds, ready for days filled with hiking mountain trails, casting fishing lines into pristine waters, or exploring the shoreline by kayak. The campground's three distinct loops offer flexibility for your stay - Loop A welcomes visitors from May through September, while Loops B and C extend the season into October's spectacular autumn colors.
Jackrabbit Mountain Campground offers standard campsites for tent camping, RV camping (non-electric), and group camping options. "Some campsites are lakeside and private," noted a reviewer.
Historical SignificanceWhile Jackrabbit Mountain itself stands as a testament to the preservation of North Carolina's natural beauty, the surrounding region tells deeper stories. Nearby attractions like the Fires Creek recreation area connect visitors to the rich heritage of the Southern Appalachians, where generations have found solace and adventure in these ancient mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives at Jackrabbit Mountain with warm, humid days perfect for lake activities, as temperatures climb into the pleasant mid-80s. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings in the 30s give way to comfortable afternoons, creating ideal conditions for hiking and campfire gatherings. The occasional rain shower keeps the forest lush and green, while the changing seasons paint the deciduous canopy in vibrant hues that reflect brilliantly on the lake's surface.
ElevationAt 1,860 feet above sea level, Jackrabbit Mountain offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This gentle elevation creates a perfect microclimate where mountain breezes sweep across the lake, cooling evening campfires and making afternoon hikes comfortable even in July and August. It's high enough to feel the mountain air, yet accessible enough for family adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryJackrabbit Mountain's peninsula setting creates an extraordinary camping experience where water views greet you from multiple angles. Towering pines intermingle with native hardwoods, creating a diverse forest canopy that shelters wildlife and provides ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons. Lake Chatuge, formed by damming the historic Hiawassee River, stretches before you in shimmering beauty, its coves and inlets beckoning exploration.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of southwestern North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest, Jackrabbit Mountain occupies a unique peninsula that juts into Lake Chatuge. This stunning location showcases the region's geological diversity, where ancient Appalachian ridges meet the engineered shoreline of a modern reservoir. The mixed forests of oak, hickory, and pine that blanket the landscape tell the story of a resilient ecosystem that has adapted to both mountain and lakeside environments, creating a rich tapestry of natural beauty that defines this corner of the Blue Ridge.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include paved roads and parking near campsites. However, Loop C is described as rugged and less suitable for individuals with disabilities because of stairs or steep paths to the lake.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some suitable for large trailers or tents. Site 90, for example, comfortably fits two tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by loop and site. Some users noted sites are very close to one another, while others found their locations "fairly private and peaceful."
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for outer Loop A and B sites for lakeside access and privacy. Sites in Loop C may require navigating stairs and rough paths.
Best CampsitesSites 064, 056, 072, and 015 are highly rated for views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors are limited to a maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights and 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated, but individual sites typically accommodate families or small groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains three loops: Loop A, Loop B, and Loop C. Loop C features rugged terrain and stair access.
Open and Closed SeasonLoop A: May to September; Loops B and C: May to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites must be reserved through Recreation.gov; no walk-up/first-come-first-serve availability exists.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival, but cancellations within one day of check-in incur penalties including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee in addition to a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jackrabbit Mountain offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking, lake-based sports such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, and fishing. "Great bike trails for all skill levels," said one user, and another shared, "We enjoyed swimming, floating, paddling, and biking."
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible from the campground, offering varied difficulty levels. "The main loop trail boasts glorious views of the lake," noted a camper.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Chatuge, with opportunities for shoreline and boat fishing. "Good bank fishing at the campground," remarked one user.Swimming
Swimming is available at the designated beach area from May to September. However, campers must pay an additional fee for beach access.Biking
The campground connects to approximately 14 miles of mountain biking trails suitable for different skill levels. "Great trails for mountain biking with a good range of difficulty," noted a reviewer.Boating
Boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, are supported, with a boat ramp available. "We paddled most of the time from our site," shared one camper.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible in the surrounding forest. Details on specific species are not provided.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are available at the swimming beach area. Pets are not allowed in this section.Winter Activities
The campground closes during the winter season, with no winter-specific activities noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood must be acquired locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsLake Chatuge water access includes rocky areas and steep paths in some sites. Poison ivy is present, and yellow jackets have been reported in the area.
Active alertsNo current alerts or construction notices.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are not explicitly listed. Emergency contacts such as 828-837-5152 can be used for inquiries.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 – October 01 each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, although some campers reported overflowing trash cans at the dump station. Recycling options were not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Chatuge, with multiple sites offering lakeside access.
Common complaintsGenerator noise, lack of privacy at certain campsites, and bathroom cleanliness are recurring complaints. Some campsites have access issues.
HostHosts are available but are not responsible for cancellations or site changes. Hosts are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
465 JACKRABBIT ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Hayesville, North Carolina, take U.S. Highway 64 east for 6.2 miles. Turn right onto State Route 175 and go 2.5 miles. Turn right onto State Road 1155, which turns into Forest Road 248. From Hiawassee, Georgia, take Georgia Route 75 north for about 3.5 miles, where it turns into North Carolina Route 175, and go an additional 1.5 miles. Turn left onto State Road 1155, which turns into Forest Service Road 248.
Roads are paved and well-maintained up to the campground. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was found.Nearby places
Hayesville, NC (approximately 6 miles)
Hiawassee, GA (approximately 5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies and essentials can be found in Hayesville, NC (6 miles away), including grocery stores, camping supplies, and gas stations.
Camper Reviews
4.6
287 reviews
Jackrabbit Mountain is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Jackrabbit Mountain Campground is highly rated for its scenic location, clean facilities, and variety of recreational activities. However, reviews also highlight issues such as proximity of campsites, noise disruptions, and occasional maintenance problems in bathrooms and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 287 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic beauty, lakeside campsites, access to recreational activities like swimming, biking, and hiking, and helpful campground hosts. "Host was friendly and helpful," mentioned one user, while...
Based on 287 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise during quiet hours, maintenance issues with bathrooms and showers, overcrowding at some sites, and lack of electrical hookups. "Quiet hours are not enforced," noted a reviewer.
Based on 287 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book well in advance for lakeside sites, bring soap for the bathrooms, and avoid Loop C if accessibility is a concern. "Bring kayaks and bikes for maximum fun," suggested a camper.
Based on 287 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall receive positive feedback for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but often crowded, with some users complaining about noisy boats and parties.
Based on 287 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The views of the lake and the lake access are spectacular." "Bathrooms were clean, but no soap was provided." "The campground was clean, quiet, and peaceful." "Mountain biking trails are great, with...
Based on 287 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 90 is large and near the lake. Site 72 has drainage issues, and 78 is noisy due to restroom proximity. Loop C is better for tents, while Loop A and B offer more RV-friendly options.
Based on 287 reviewsAccessibility Features
Loop C has limited accessibility due to steep paths and stairs. "Loop C is not recommended for those with children and disabilities," noted a reviewer.
Based on 287 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted from the beach and picnic areas. "This place was great! We loved bringing our dogs," said one camper.
Based on 287 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025