Hike Bike Camp And Swim At Jackrabbit Mountain A Secluded Mountain Lake In North Carolina

Where in North Carolina can you find something that appeals to everyone in the family, yet is secluded enough that the masses aren’t already planning to flock there as soon as lock down is lifted? If you have a brood that loves to hike, swim, mountain bike, canoe or kayak, camp overnight, and enjoy the great outdoors, then head to Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area.

You’ll find it on a peninsula of Chatuge Lake, a 10.9-square-mile reservoir on the North Carolina, Georgia Border approximately 40 miles southwest of Franklin.

Flickr/keone

The state line runs right through the middle of the lake, but adventure has no boundaries, right?

Google Local/Paul Hawkinson Bring a kayak or canoe and enjoy a day on the water exploring the 130 miles of shoreline. There’s a boat launch for larger vessels, too.

If you have a weekend (or longer), then book a lakeside campsite. Many of them are only steps from the water.

Google Local/Joan Calvert

Most of the 92 campsites have at least some view of Chatuge Lake. Just imagine waking up with fresh mountain air and a view like this one.

Google Local/Pankaj Rajput

Expect to find plenty of options for keeping the little ones happy and occupied. Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area is a wonderful place to fish from either the shore or a fishing pier located in the park.

Google Local/Karen Crews

And for those who love to swim, a designated swimming area doubles as a shady spot to take a break from the sun.

Google Local/Robert Wilkerson

Mountain bikers can explore the 15-mile stacked loop trail system which is appropriate for all skill levels.

Google Local/Jeffrey Heim

And hikers can explore the woods and shoreline on the Jackrabbit trail, a 4.1-mile loop that offers delightful water views throughout.

alltrails/Joseph DiFalco

The Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area is open seasonally, May 1st through September 30. In 2020, the pandemic may prevent the area from opening on time.

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Stay up to date with the open/close status and learn more by checking the official page for Jackrabbit Recreation Area on the U.S. Forest Service website. To reserve a campsite, visit www.recreation.gov.

Flickr/keone

Google Local/Paul Hawkinson

Bring a kayak or canoe and enjoy a day on the water exploring the 130 miles of shoreline. There’s a boat launch for larger vessels, too.