The Catawba Mountain Shelter was built by volunteers from the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club in the summer and fall of 1984. This shelter was added to the chain of shelters after the relocation of the Appalachian Trail from North Mountain to Catawba Mountain, adding McAfee Knob to the Trail's route. This shelter is built in a style that is reminiscent of the typical plank sided lean-to favored by the U.S. Forest Service, but has unique features in its design, including the peaked roof and more open front. It is maintained by the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club.