Tsali Campground

About

Tsali Campground is located within the Tsali Recreation Area on the Cheoah Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest. The campground occupies a scenic peninsula on Fontana Lake, providing convenient access to fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is renowned for its four-loop trail system totaling approximately 40 miles, which has become a top destination for mountain bikers and horseback riders. The trails operate on an alternating schedule to separate bikes and horses. The campground offers 42 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. Centrally located facilities include accessible flush toilets, hot showers, and potable drinking water. Many sites can accommodate small RVs, though no electrical, water, or sewer hookups are provided. Fontana Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities including walleye, black bass, crappie, catfish, and white bass. A boat ramp is available nearby for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. The campground is open from early April through October, with fees payable at the campground fee station.

Directions

From Bryson City, take US 74 west to NC 28 west, turn right and go five miles looking for a sign on the right. The recreation area is approximately two miles north on Forest Road 1286. Alternatively, from Robbinsville, take US 143 north towards Bryson City, turn right on NC 28 east and proceed approximately 8 miles to Tsali Campground Road, then turn left and proceed 1.3 miles to the campground.