The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a recreational resource recognized by the entire nation as the third most popular U.S. national park in the system, right behind the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. In 2020, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomed 12.1 million visitors, in spite of the world-wide pandemic. And within the park there are a number of must-see attractions, but you’d be remiss if you didn’t set aside some time to experience the pristine paradise found at a little-known lake on the southern end of the park.

You'll find Lake Santeetlah in Western North Carolina just outside of Robbinsville and to the southwest of Fontana Dam.
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And you won't be disappointed by what you find here, either.
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Formed all the way back in 1928 when Alcoa dammed the Cheoah River to add a hydroelectric power plant to fuel Graham County, Lake Santeetlah is approximately 3,000 acres large and includes 67 miles of shoreline.
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The cool mountain waters of Lake Santeetlah make it a prime spot for cooling off in the heat of the summer. A roped-off swimming area makes it easy to keep an eye on the little ones.
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And picnic areas provide a place to hunker down for a meal while enjoying the pristine views from the shore.
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Of course, exploring the water from the water is also a fantastic way to enjoy the spoils of Lake Santeetlah. For rentals, explore the options from Lake Santeetlah Boat Rentals at Deyton Camp. A variety of boats are available at reasonable rates (half day pontoon rental, for instance, is $160).
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Want to spend more than just a day at the lake?
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Cheoah Point Campground is run by the U.S. Forest Service and offers camp sites that accommodate all types of camping, including a limited number of RV sites.
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Cabins can be reserved by calling 877-444-6777.
Google Maps/Sabrina M

Have you explored the pristine paradise found at North Carolina’s Lake Santeetlah yet? Join the discussion and weigh in!

While you’re at Lake Santeetlah, be sure to venture next door to explore the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest!

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