Vacation rentals in Fontana Lake

Set in Graham and Swain counties in North Carolina along the Little Tennessee River, Fontana Lake is a man-made reservoir formed by the Fontana Dam. During the spring, summer, and fall months, the lake is popular among nature lovers, hikers, fishermen, and boating enthusiasts. It’s the perfect spot for a fun family summer vacation, a romantic couple's getaway, or a friends’ trip in nature! With an abundance of activities on offer, Fontana Lake is a spectacular destination for all types of travelers.

Unwind close to nature at a vacation rental in Fontana Lake. Stay in a leafy forest, surrounded by trees and spectacular lake views. Rentals around Fontana Lake come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and price points, with something suitable for every type of traveler. Big groups and families can opt for oversized rentals, which come with plenty of bedrooms for everyone and a fully equipped kitchen. Couples can opt for cozy rentals with a jacuzzi to warm up during the cooler months. Rentals around the lake are typically equipped with modern amenities, like high-speed internet, heating and cooling systems, and functional kitchens. Pet-friendly rentals are available for people traveling with pets.

If you’ll be arriving to the lake by plane, the closet airport is McGhee Tyson Airport, which is 27 miles away. Asheville is home to the next nearest airport at 72 miles away. The closest town to the lake is Bryson City, which is home to a fantastic downtown with several restaurants and stores. You can rent a car at either of the airports or in Bryson City.

Having a car during your stay at Fontana Lake is absolutely necessary. Many of the points of interest are spread far apart and are not within walking distance to each other. It’s best to bring everything you’ll need throughout your lake stay before you arrive at your rental. You can buy groceries from nearby small-town Bryson City. The closest nearby city is Asheville which is around an hour drive away.

Fontana Lake is the perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts with a variety of options in and near the lake area. If you’re a fan of fly-fishing, head over to Hazel Creek which is a popular backcountry fly-fishing destination. The creek is known for its abundance of native southern Appalachian brook trout, wild rainbow trout, and brown trout. Fontana Lake is also popular for its abundance of bass, muskie, steel head, carp, catfish, crappie, and more! You can either do a fishing charter, or fish from the shores of the lake. Bait, tackle, and equipment are available at a variety of shops near the lake.

Families of all ages will find a plethora of fun activity options around the lake. One of the best ways to explore the lake area is on horseback. There are several stables in the area offering guided trail rides and horseback riding trips. Ziplining is another fantastic, family-friendly activity to be enjoyed in the wooded areas near the lake. Numerous outdoor centers and tour companies just a stone’s throw from the lake have zipline canopy tours. Head to Nantahala Outdoor Center to try their zipline. They also offer rafting tours.

If you’ll be visiting the lake during the summer months then swimming will probably be at the top of your list of priorities! The lake is perfectly safe for swimming. Head to the “finger lakes” section of the lake where there is a beach area. If you have children, bring along any tubes, flotation devices, or swim gear you might want. Swim around the calm lake waters for hours to cool off from the strong sunny rays!

If you love exploring natural landscapes on foot, then you’ll find no shortage of walking and hiking paths around Fontana Lake. There are several nearby access points to the Appalachian Trail where you can enjoy a variety of hikes. Head to Hazel Creek Trail for an intermediate hike through wooded forests along a creek. Try 67 Loop via Goldmine Loop Trail for another all-levels, scenic hike. For nice, flat walking paths, head to Fontana Dam Shelter where you’ll find plenty of even-keel, yet beautiful walking options.

The calm, glassy waters of Fontana Lake are perfect for exploring on kayak, canoes, or paddleboards. Numerous water sports rental companies rent equipment around the lake. You can even opt for an inflatable kayak or rent tubes to float around in. Spend the day paddling, floating, or boating around the peaceful lake.

While at Fontana Lake, be sure to visit the dam. It’s the tallest dam east of the Rocky Mountains standing at 480 feet tall! There are vista points at both the top and bottom of the dam which offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Stop here to soak in the gorgeous views and to learn about things to do in the nearby area at the visitor's center.

Just a stone’s throw away from Fontana Lake is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take a scenic drive around the picturesque park and enjoy the steadily changing vistas and stop-off view points. Or take a hike on one of the park's many hiking trails.