Fontana Lake - US, NC
Fontana Lake in North Carolina offers a stunning natural setting perfect for dog owners seeking a dog park with scenic views and pet-friendly trails. This expansive lake features 238 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by beautiful mountain vistas, making it an ideal spot for dog-friendly hiking, boating, and outdoor adventures with your furry friends. The area is well-known for its peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled beauty, providing a great escape for both pets and their owners.
Visitors to this dog park near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including kayaking, fishing, and hiking along pet-friendly trails. The lake’s massive size allows plenty of space for dogs to explore and play, while owners can relax and take in the breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for a casual day out or an active outdoor experience, Fontana Lake is a top choice for dog lovers in North Carolina seeking a natural, dog-friendly environment.
FAQ for Fontana Lake in US North Carolina:
- Is the park open year-round? While not explicitly stated, the reviews mention visiting in different seasons including October and July, suggesting that Fontana Lake is accessible year-round.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Fontana Lake provides hiking opportunities around the lake area.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? The lake offers swimming opportunities and is popular for tubing and swimming, which dogs could potentially enjoy as well.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, especially after October, water levels drop leading to muddy areas around the lake.
- Are there pet-friendly cafes or stores close to the park? There are nearby food and drink options with a casual atmosphere noted at nearby establishments, making it a pleasant experience for visitors.
Reviews
Great place to stop and stretch, or eat a picnic lunch. Grab some chairs (no tables or chairs provided) and your cooler and head down the steps to one of 3 spots along the river. Sit and watch rafts and kayaks as they traverse through Patton’s Run. No restrooms.
One of the prettiest lakes in our area. Heck of a drive getting there with having to drive the Dragon, but well worth it. If you camp on the lake after about October, water levels are WAY down which means plenty of mud. One of our favorite places to canoe/camp.
There really isn’t any better time than tubing and swimming on the lake with family. Bring a cooler with drinks and food and you are set for the day! Don’t forget a map, and keep your eye on the gas gauge if your boat doesn’t typically run all day. We ran all the way down to the dam and took some great family photos there. It was a great day and a great trip! Perfect for a sultry July day!
What an absolutely beautiful lake, unspoiled and a way to spend the day either swimming, taking a pontoon boat out for a ride and experiencing the breathtaking views. I’m so thankful they didn’t build upon this lake. It’s unspoiled and absolutely gorgeous.
Fontana Lake is situated at the North Carolina entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but the lake is not under the national park’s jurisdiction. The lake has 238 miles of shoreline. The lake is created by the 480-foot-tall (equivalent to a 50-story skyscraper) Fontana dam. You can walk on the dam and enjoy the Fontana dam basin. The lake provides recreational activities like boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. You can also enjoy the magnificent scenic views from many overlooks around the lake. Definitely recommend visiting the lake.
Very nice place to take a break from riding. Stopped on a Monday…had the whole place to myself. Plenty of parking in the shade as well as a short walk to the river side. Big rocks to sit and have a cold drink and snack while watching the river go cascading by.
The first class 2 rapid of the lower nanthala. Easily viewed from the overlook roadside or with a small bushwhack from the paved portion of the Bartram trail. This section is even better after the dam release finishes later in the day.
This lake is massive. You could easily get yourself lost if you aren’t familiar with the area. Which is also a positive if you are boating and hanging out for the day. There is plenty of room to drive and dock up in your own private area to swim. The views here are spectacular. Fontana is the perfect lake with mountain views. The history here is also fascinating. If you are visiting here and haven’t before. I would encourage you to look up the history on Fontana and the dam.
Nice place to stop, especially in the fall. You can see people going down the river rafting. Only about 20 steps. Easy walk down to the water.