Dog-friendly RV camping near Lake Santeetlah
Lakeside escapes and lush forests welcome campers to Lake Santeetlah.
- Lake Santeetlah
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Dog-friendly RV camping near Lake Santeetlah guide
Overview
Take Indian Lakes Scenic Byway to the heart of Santeetlah Lake, where crystal blue waters and tree-covered hills cover the landscape. Explore the lake with a boat rental from Santeetlah Marina, which offers pontoon boats, ski boats, and kayaks, or enjoy a day under the sun at a local beach. Lakeside camping, cabin rentals, and RV campsites in town welcome campers year-round. Many campgrounds throughout the area offer standard sites, full hookups, fire pits, and more. Natural attractions, like Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cheoah Point Recreation Area, make camping near Lake Santeetlah a trip to remember.
Where to go
Nantahala National Forest
North Carolina’s fourth largest forest, Nantahala National Forest features 531,286 acres of lush landscape, including the Appalachian summit of Lone Bald, deep gorges, and shaded valleys. Grab a map and explore the many waterfalls flowing through the park, as well. Campgrounds tucked between trees offer tent and RV campsites with access to nearby waters and hiking trails. Some campsites are also outfitted with full hookups and restrooms while other dispersed spots among backcountry hideouts lead to epic camping memories.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Gather the gear for Great Smoky Mountains National Park to explore ancient mountains, old growth forests, and waterfalls. A short 30-minute drive from Lake Santeetlah, campers can settle into frontcountry and backcountry campsites, group camps, horse campsites, and cabin rentals. Many are equipped with fire rings with grates and picnic tables, but there are no hookups or showers available. Then enjoy the streams and waterfalls of the Deep Creek area on a paddleboat, hike, or bike trip through the park. Historians will love Cataloochee Valley’s 19th and 20th century buildings, along with Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill.
Cheoah Point Recreation Area
A short drive from Lake Santeetlah brings campers to Cheoah Point Recreation Area, a peninsula just north of Lake Santeetlah. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, Cheoah Point features well-maintained campgrounds for tents and RVs with beautiful views and hiking trails—including access to the Appalachian Trail. Full hookups, fire pits, grills, picnic areas, and shower facilities create cozy camping in this nature nook. Reservations are a must for this highly sought after spot.
When to go
Lake Santeetlah’s subtropical temperatures provide warm summers and mild winters for enjoyable camping year-round. The height of summer heat arrives in July, with temperatures reaching an average of 88°F. Summer is perfect for visiting the lake and exploring Nantahala’s waterfalls. Winter cools things down with temperatures in the 50s. In January, temperatures can drop below freezing overnight.