Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
Looking to stay around the Nantahala area. What is Fontana Lake like? Anyone knows how it compares to Jocassee? All I've done is take the ride from Bryson City to Nantahala. Is there a particular area around there that is recommended to stay?
We will probably be looking for a cabin. Any recommendations of where to stay that isn't TOO costly? Maybe 2-3 bedroom.
Not really looking to kayak and not sure what time of the year it would be but just doing some research now to prepare.
What is Fontana Lake like? Anyone knows how it compares to Jocassee?
Just from the pictures online, you can see that Jocassee has lots of rocks in the lake-bed. Fontana has red soil in the lake-bed. Are you interested in fishing or swimming?
My GF and I stayed there just a month or so ago and loved it! And to be honest, I have stayed in FAR worse places that cost a hell of a lot more money..
I don't have a comparison of Jocassee, but am familiar with Fontana, as Bryson City area is where we usually vacation. We rent from a Property Management Company that has many cabins in that area and have always been superior. Check out their website and you'll get a feel for their cabins. The prices range, so you should find something you like, and an online calendar will give you the available dates. All cabins are maintained very well!
As for Fontana, this lake is my favorite!! It's unique in that there isn't much development along the banks, so it appears more private than most. The banks are part of the Natahala forest and the Smokies, so all you see for miles is beautiful scenery...with the exception of specific areas where houseboats are tethered to the banks, as this is the only development allowed.
The Fontana Village is a resort close by that you might want to check out too.
By the way, we usually rent a pontoon boat when we go, so if you'd be interested in it, Alarka Marina is a recommend. There's another Marina but we've only used Alarka due to their location and service. Keep in mind that they lower the lake levels periodically so call in advance.
There is so much to do in close proximity to the Bryson City area which is why we keep going back...Enjoy!
We stayed at Lakeview at Fontana considered a mountain Inn/Rustic Spa.
It was quaint but definitely rustic. They offered yoga and massages, nice ambience. They had French press coffee and light breakfast and wine and cheese in the afternoon.
Nothing fancy and they have pet friendly rooms if you need them.
It was also pretty close to the Nantahala outdoor center. http://www.lakeviewatfontana.com/
We also stayed at a really nice cabin right across the street from the outdoor center up a dirt road. I can't remember the name but found it on the internet but it was more expensive.
I'm in Franklin, about 45 miles from Fontana Lake and can't personally recommend any places to stay. However, I don't know your budget, so I'll post this.
if you want 2 or 3 bedrooms and can't spend $200+ a night, you should be able to find a privately owned cabin on the VRBO website, but it depends on the services you desire.
I don't know if this helps, but I thought I'd post because that's how I found some very nice places to stay in WNC. Enter Robbinsville, Almond, Cherokee, etc., and you'll find several cabins listed for $800 or less a week. Good luck!
We stayed at Eagle's Nest cabin on VRBO several years ago. It is located on a road right across from the Natahala outfitter store on the river. Great cabin with an unbelievable view. Our family loved this cabin.
We stayed at Eagle's Nest cabin on VRBO several years ago. It is located on a road right across from the Natahala outfitter store on the river. Great cabin with an unbelievable view. Our family loved this cabin.
I was up there for a few days last week , and they are lowering the lake. Currently , it is about 40'below full , so Alarka , Prince , and Almond boat docks will likely close for the season soon , if not already. Fontana Marina remains open year round , and rents pontoons for $75 hourly/$175 for 4 hours , and $350 daily. I haven't been to Jocassee yet , so can't comment. I stayed in Franklin , and stopped at Nantahala Lake Sunday morning , which is being lowered as well , but not as much as the former. The leaves are past peak , but not diminished yet.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
Eagle's Nest
