Fontana Dam Campground

Amazing campground overlooking the lake - great bathrooms, access to water, and a shuttle service to and from Fontana Dam Village. This is by and large the best shelter on the Appalachian Trail, thus far.

Stayed here for my first time three weeks ago. Its a nice little campground, bathroom a bit outdated (70s) however it was clean and there was hot water which is my opinion is most important. I stayed on a tent spot close to the water and the rocks. I noticed from time to time there were mice and rats running around and this is what leads to my 3 star review instead of 5. Arrived Fri night, awoke Sat and left for the day returned at night, no problems. Awoke the next day (Sun) and upon cranking my truck I noticed my Toyota Tacoma had a check engine, trac off light....odd as it was not on before. Long story short, I made it home only to find out from my local mechanic that this was going to be a huge drop to replace and recommend I take it to Toyota. I did and my fears were confirmed. The wiring harness to my knock sensor had been chewed into by a rodent. The total cost for replacement was just over $2500 due to it having 19hrs worth of tear engine removal and re installation. I realized this could happen anywhere but it happened here and just can't bring myself to post a 5 start review after this experience. I say and write this review in an effort to let folks know that not only are they out there but they can and will damage your vehicle. My saving grace was that insurance did cover and I was only out $100 for the deductible. I will never camp again without this being in the back of my mind and will now always deploy some type of counter measure in some effort to avoid this again. As much as I had planned to and would like to visit again, I just don't know if I can bring myself to do it.

This campground is small, quiet, clean and well kept. It is very convenient to Fontana Village and Marina and the many scenic roads in the area.

Wonderful place. Beautiful water from the dam, friendly people. Only the occasional motorcyclist loudly drives by, or dalmatian-size tarantula eyes you from the public shower.

Nice campground under the dam. Only drawback is no cell coverage. There may be some near the restroom/bathhouse. Tent sites $15/night