Natural swimming hole
Cliffside Lake
Lake · North Carolina
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
A small, spring-fed mountain lake in Nantahala National Forest with a sandy beach, swimming dock, and a historic CCC bathhouse with cold showers. The lake is a favorite family swim spot minutes from Highlands, with a flat loop trail circling the water. No flotation devices are allowed on the lake.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 60s-70s in summer |
| Depth | Swim beach with dock; shallow entry |
| Best season | Memorial Day through Labor Day |
| Fees | $5 per vehicle day use |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Day use; water off in winter |
| Parking | Two parking lots at the recreation area |
| Amenities | Bathhouse with showers, Swim dock, Picnic shelters, Hiking trails |
| County | Macon |
| Nearest town | Highlands |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; no flotation devices permitted. No pets on the beach. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Cliffside Lake?
Yes — Cliffside Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in North Carolina. Reported water temperature: 60s-70s in summer. Heads-up: No lifeguard; no flotation devices permitted. No pets on the beach.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Cliffside Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Cliffside Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Cliffside Lake?
Reported fee info: $5 per vehicle day use. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Cliffside Lake?
The best season is typically Memorial Day through Labor Day.