Cliffside Lake Shelters
National Forests in North Carolina — lakeside, fishing, hiking
Highlands, NC5 (1)
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Cliffside Lake Recreation Area is a large Day Use area outside of Highlands, NC in Nantahala National Forest. The site offers access to Cliffside Lake where visitors can fish and swim. Cliffside is also home to several trailheads, including the popular Ranger Falls Trail.
Things to do nearby
National Forests in North CarolinaCliffside LakeRanger Falls Trail
Best For
AnglersHikersWildlife watchers
Site Types
Tent
Amenities
Fire Rings
Picnic Tables
Vault Toilets
Fishing
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Season
May through October
Max/site
6 people
Known Issues
Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.
Cancellation Policy
Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Cliffside Lake Shelters cost per night?+
Cliffside Lake Shelters costs $30–$40 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups.
What season is Cliffside Lake Shelters open?+
Cliffside Lake Shelters is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.
Does Cliffside Lake Shelters have hookups?+
No hookups.
What is the maximum RV length at Cliffside Lake Shelters?+
Cliffside Lake Shelters is primarily a tent camping facility. Contact the campground about RV access.
How do I make reservations at Cliffside Lake Shelters?+
Cliffside Lake Shelters is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.
How far is Cliffside Lake Shelters from the nearest town?+
Cliffside Lake Shelters is located in Highlands, NC. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.
Own a campground nearby?
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