Cliffside Lak has a recreation area that includes picnic shelters available by reservation for get togethers and parties. The lake’s swimming area includes a beach with a swimming dock and connects to the Van Hook Glade campgrounds via a kid-friendly walking trail. There is a daily parking fee for either of the two lots that also include restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. Boats are not allowed on the lake, which restricts fishing to the shore, but it is stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout varieties. Hikers are rewarded with two different waterfalls in the dense forest surrounding the lake. Those looking to stay longer than the day can also find cabins for rent close by.

Address: Cliffside Lake, US 64, Nantahala National Forest, Highlands, NC 28741, Phone: 828-862-5962

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