Fontana Lake is a reservoir located in Swain and Graham counties in western North Carolina. It was created in the 1940s by the construction of Fontana Dam on the Little Tennessee River, near the Tennessee-North Carolina border. The lake is named after the Fontana village which was submerged by the creation of the lake.
What Is the Size of Fontana Lake?
Fontana Lake has a surface area of 10,230 acres and a total shoreline of 480 miles. It has a maximum depth of 420 feet, making it one of the deepest lakes in the United States. It is also one of the most scenic lakes in the country.
How Was Fontana Lake Created?
Fontana Lake was created in the 1940s with the construction of Fontana Dam on the Little Tennessee River. The dam was built as part of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) plan to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power. It was the first of three dams completed by the TVA in the region.
What Is the Purpose of Fontana Lake?
Fontana Lake is used primarily for recreational purposes such as fishing, boating, camping, and swimming. It is also used to generate hydroelectric power, regulate flooding, and provide water supply. The lake also serves as an important habitat for fish and wildlife species.
Where Is Fontana Lake Located?
Fontana Lake is located in western North Carolina in Swain and Graham counties. It is situated on the Little Tennessee River, near the Tennessee-North Carolina border. The nearest towns are Bryson City and Fontana Village in Swain County and Robbinsville in Graham County.
What Are the Best Things to Do at Fontana Lake?
There’s plenty to do at Fontana Lake. The lake is a great place for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. There are also plenty of hiking trails along the shoreline that offer spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding area. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available on the lake.
What Are the Regulations for Boating on Fontana Lake?
All boats and watercraft on Fontana Lake must adhere to the regulations set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This includes having life jackets on board, displaying proper registration numbers, and adhering to speed limits. Boaters must also be aware of special regulations that apply to certain areas of the lake.
What Are the Rules for Fishing on Fontana Lake?
The rules for fishing on Fontana Lake are set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. These rules include size and creel limits, as well as restrictions on certain types of bait. Fishermen must also be aware of special regulations that apply to certain areas of the lake.
Are There Any Campgrounds Near Fontana Lake?
Yes, there are several campgrounds located near Fontana Lake. The nearest campgrounds are Fontana Marina Campground, located on the north shore of the lake; and Nantahala Outdoor Center, located on the south shore of the lake. Both campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including boat rentals, fishing supplies, and more.
Are There Any Boat Rentals Available at Fontana Lake?
Yes, there are several boat rental companies located near Fontana Lake. The most popular rental company is Fontana Marina, which offers a variety of motorboats, pontoons, and kayaks for rent. They also offer fishing supplies and other necessary equipment.
Are There Any Waterfalls Near Fontana Lake?
Yes, there are several waterfalls located near Fontana Lake. The most popular waterfalls are the Upper and Lower Bearwallow Falls, located on the north shore of the lake. They offer spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding area. Other popular waterfalls include Ramsey Creek Falls and Licklog Creek Falls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the surface area of Fontana Lake?
A1: Fontana Lake has a surface area of 10,230 acres.
Q2: How deep is Fontana Lake?
A2: Fontana Lake has a maximum depth of 420 feet.
Q3: Why was Fontana Lake created?
A3: Fontana Lake was created in the 1940s with the construction of Fontana Dam on the Little Tennessee River. The dam was built as part of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) plan to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power.
Q4: What are the best things to do at Fontana Lake?
A4: The best things to do at Fontana Lake include fishing, boating, swimming, camping, and hiking. Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding are also popular activities on the lake.
Q5: What are the regulations for boating on Fontana Lake?
A5: All boats and watercraft on Fontana Lake must adhere to the regulations set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This includes having life jackets on board, displaying proper registration numbers, and adhering to speed limits.
Q6: What are the rules for fishing on Fontana Lake?
A6: The rules for fishing on Fontana Lake are set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. These rules include size and creel limits, as well as restrictions on certain types of bait.
Q7: Are there any campgrounds near Fontana Lake?
A7: Yes, there are several campgrounds located near Fontana Lake. The nearest campgrounds are Fontana Marina Campground, located on the north shore of the lake; and Nantahala Outdoor Center, located on the south shore of the lake.
Q8: Are there any boat rentals available at Fontana Lake?
A8: Yes, there are several boat rental companies located near Fontana Lake. The most popular rental company is Fontana Marina, which offers a variety of motorboats, pontoons, and kayaks for rent.
Q9: Are there any waterfalls near Fontana Lake?
A9: Yes, there are several waterfalls located near Fontana Lake. The most popular waterfalls are the Upper and Lower Bearwallow Falls, located on the north shore of the lake.
Q10: What is the nearest town to Fontana Lake?
A10: The nearest towns to Fontana Lake are Bryson City and Fontana Village in Swain County and Robbinsville in Graham County.