Fontana Hilton Trail Shelter in the Nantahala National Forest is surrounded by forested terrain with trails and natural landscapes. Temperatures in this area can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby, campers can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Fontana Lake, offering opportunities for hiking and water activities.

This is a trail shelter off the Appalachian Trail. It is not a drive in site.

Fontana Hilton Trail Shelter -- AT trail shelter

Fontana Dam is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Fontana Dam is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Fontana Dam, reviewed by campers like you.

Fontana Dam

The Best Camping Near Fontana Dam, North Carolina

Near Fontana Dam and along the Appalachian Trail, there is the most modern trail shelter that I have ever seen.  I have stayed at a few trail shelters, but this is the first one I have seen that has a solar charging station for electronic devices.  There is a reason it is called the “Fontana Hilton.”  I had been to this shelter before in years past, and it was much more rustic.  Now it is clean and modern.   Although mainly for through-hikers on the Appalachian Trail, the road to Fontana Dam runs beside it, and there is a parking lot close to the camping area.  You don’t have to worry about road noise at night, however, because the road ends at Fontana Dam less than half a mile down the road.  I use the term “camping area” because there are also tent pads close to the trail shelter, so you can choose to stay in the shelter or sleep in a tent.  I preferred to stay in a tent.  Also unlike the other trail shelters where I have stayed, this one has a bath house, complete with running water, flush toilets, and hot showers.  Next to the trail shelter, there is a gathering area with picnic tables, a place to hang your lantern, and a fire pit.  I got a chance to meet some other campers—most of them were thru-hikers.  It was interesting to see what gear they were using.  I was curious and asked, and as I suspected, a couple of them were using alcohol stoves because of their light weight.  Among other things about this camping area, you are beside Fontana Lake, so the view is pretty special, especially at night when the moon reflects over the water.  When you are not at the camping area, you can go to the dam and visitors center.  Being the highest dam east of the Mississippi River, seeing the dam with your own eyes is pretty awesome.

Photos of Fontana Hilton Trail Shelter -- AT trail shelter

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