Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
Learn more
Avey Creek offers boat launch access to Lake Santeetlah in the Nantahala National Forest within Graham County, North Carolina. This facility is maintained in coordination with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and serves as a popular access point for the scenic Santeetlah Reservoir area, which is largely undeveloped and surrounded by national forest lands. The nearby Cheoah Point Recreation Area provides additional amenities including camping, picnicking, and swimming facilities.
The Cheoah River system drains approximately 215 square miles with an average flow of 557 cubic feet per second. The water body stretches 18.44 miles with a significant elevation change of 891 feet, indicating a moderately steep gradient of 48.3 feet per mile. Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for moderate current conditions and variable water levels typical of a large river system in the Appalachian Mountains.
Several campground options are available within 10 miles of the access point, including Cheoah Point Campground and Rattler Ford Group Campground, both of which are reservable through standard channels. This location provides a good base for exploring both the reservoir and creek paddling opportunities in the region.