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Photo: 20121024-FS-Cherokee-028 (18956982325) by US Forest Service - Southern Region (Public domain) License

Cherokee Lake Recreation Area

National forest · Murphy, North Carolina

Rainy todayPicnic tablesPublic restroomWheelchair accessible entranceWheelchair accessible parking lot
Editor's Notes
A national forest in Murphy, North Carolina. Visitors come for hiking and picnicking; restrooms and picnic tables on site. The site is wheelchair-accessible, dog-friendly and kid-friendly.

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Weather at Cherokee Lake Recreation Area

H: 89° L: 68°
Moderate rain
Moderate rain
68°
|
Feels like 72°
Precipitation
77%
Humidity
88%
Wind
3 mph
UV Index
0
Water Conditions:
🏊Cool but swimmable🌧️Rain expected
12 AM
Clear
73°
3 AM
Cloudy
73°
6 AM
Moderate rain
68°
9 AM
Moderate rain at times
73°
12 PM
Patchy rain nearby
88°
3 PM
Overcast
84°
6 PM
Sunny
81°
9 PM
Cloudy
77°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Cherokee Lake Recreation Area?
Cherokee Lake Recreation Area is a national forest in Murphy, North Carolina.
Can you swim at Cherokee Lake Recreation Area?
There is no fixed answer for Cherokee Lake Recreation Area: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Cherokee Lake Recreation Area in Murphy, North Carolina. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Cherokee Lake Recreation Area rated?
Cherokee Lake Recreation Area in Murphy, North Carolina has an average visitor rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 146 reviews.

Visitor Reviews

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Been here? A quick note helps the next visitor plan their day. Handy things to mention:

Water temperatureCrowds & parkingBest time to goSafety & access

Best Times to Visit

🌧️
Right Now
Not ideal for outdoor activities today
General Tips:
  • Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
  • Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
  • Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Unnamed Road, Murphy, NC 28906

Murphy, North Carolina 28906

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Highlights

Picnics

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entranceWheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

🧺 Picnic tables🚻 Public restroom🚻 Restroom

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Kid-friendly hikes