Camping in Lake Santeetlah, NC, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
North Carolina
—
Lake Santeetlah

96% (6076 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake Santeetlah

Dog-friendly getaways

Top camping destinations

Nantahala National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

1372 campgrounds

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1431 campgrounds

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

1318 campgrounds

Ruby Falls

1051 campgrounds

Available this weekend

99%

(102)

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Sweetwater Sights

11 sites · RVs4 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Welcome to our family-owned RV campground and cabin business, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina. Enjoy stunning mountain and creekfront views right from our property. We offer 20 RV sites with full hookups, including power, water, and sewer connections, all set at 50 amps. Additionally, we have space available for various tent sites, accessible via a walk bridge across the creek. For your convenience, we provide two family shower/restroom facilities on-site. Our cozy cabins feature one room with a full bathroom each, and we offer one handicap-accessible cabin for your comfort and convenience.

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing but will need a landowner permission slip as little snowbird creek is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

99%

(35)

Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Andrews, NC

All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views. Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee border. Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby. Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.

Grandpa Squirrel's Domes

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Andrews, NC

"There's no place like Dome." Grandpa Squirrel's Dome's sits on 4.1 acres at the base of Granny Squirrel Mountain in the foothills of the Appalachian's and less than 5 miles from the town of Andrew's North Carolina in Cherokee County. Highway 19 abuts the land providing easy access to destinations of your choice. These destinations may include white water rafting, tubing, hiking, cruising the Tail of the Dragon, antiquing, hitting the casinos, and any other adventure of your choosing. Of course, you may also choose to find a place to just sit down, relax, and enjoy the sounds and energy of the noisy creek that pulses along its western border. Perhaps a simple picnic along the banks, or maybe you'd like to feed the fish that inhabit and grace this land. Short History The Cherokee's called this land "Konehete", aka "The Long Valley Place", and it was thought of as, "Cherokee Paradise". They grew the Three Sisters (Corn, Beans and Squash), hunted the rich lands, fished its creeks and lakes, worshiped and gave thanks to the great Creator and to the spirits of the land, as well as the animals which inhabit it. The military removal of what remained of the Cherokee Nation began in 1836 along what we now refer to as "The Trail of Tears". It started here in Andrews, which at that time was called Valley Town. The first fort built along the Trail of Tears was Ft Delaney, all that remains today is the remnants of a stone wall, it lies nearby. Running along the western border of Grandpa Squirrel's is an always running creek which is fed by a mountain top spring as well as rain runoff from the surrounding mountains. Along the creek there are 3 geodesic domes (soon to be 5) which provide 250 square feet of living space within. The domes are furnished with a queen size bed, a small dining area and a place to store your things. Each dome also has a small gravel patio and seating is provided. Additionally, there are propane BBQ grills located at the outdoor community kitchen area, as well as potable water. This is also where you will find your coffee in the morning. Transparency and Setting Expectations: THE BAD There are no flushing toilets. There is an outhouse on site. To avoid trips to the outhouse late at night, each dome comes with a porta potty. If you choose to use the porta potty in your dome, it is your responsibility to transfer the waste to the outhouse and to properly clean it out. Cleaning supplies are provided. Granpa Squirrels is not secluded deep in the woods and off the beaten path., It abuts the main highway and there is a considerable amount of road noise. The road noise dies down at night but returns early the next day as delivery trucks make their way down the highway. With that said, it's also kind of cool to see packs of cyclists and car enthusiasts blowing past the property ready for another glorious day in the mountains of North Carolina.

12 top campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

99%

(439)

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing but will need a landowner permission slip as little snowbird creek is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

Mountain Creek Rest

2 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic, and very, very private campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you would like to invite friends! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 4 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Both Heartstone and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 5 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Conleys Creek Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Whittier, NC

We purchased our nine-acre property a little over three years ago. It was a run down, small, manufactured home park with a farmhouse on it. It has been an ongoing labor of love to transform it into a small, unique RV and tent camping park along beautiful Conleys Creek. We only offer 4 tent spots (first come, first served), as well as 4 RV spots. We rent out our 38' RV separately. We have torn down and repurposed some of the manufactured homes on the property. We continue to create numerous gardens with veggies and herbs. We have also planted numerous fruit and flowering trees, bushes and flowers for bold color throughout the year. Our property is completely pesticide free. We currently have 11 free range chickens, known as The Dixie Chicks! Guests enjoy feeding, petting and collecting their eggs, which are delicious! We offer both RV and tent camping on both sides of Conleys Creek. Each site has a grill and fire pit. Fish or cool off in our creek, which is regularly stocked with trout. As a convenience to our guests, we sell eggs, firewood and ice. Enjoy the game room playing billiards or shooting darts. Enjoy the nice weather and play one of our numerous outdoor yard games. We have a very clean, private guest bath house, excellent WI-FI and a dump station. Hike up our mountain range to locate our second creek. Our guests love how convenient our location is to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We are nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee. Close to other charming towns, such as Dillsboro and Sylva, and many outdoor attractions. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, tubing, kayaking and whitewater rapids, all nearby our property. This is our home, business and new lifestyle. Come and enjoy it with us!

NEW!!!! Blue Ridge Basecamp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Topton, NC

Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 5 fully stocked campers and 5 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available April 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20 minute drive.

Sweetwater Sights

11 sites · RVs4 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Welcome to our family-owned RV campground and cabin business, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina. Enjoy stunning mountain and creekfront views right from our property. We offer 20 RV sites with full hookups, including power, water, and sewer connections, all set at 50 amps. Additionally, we have space available for various tent sites, accessible via a walk bridge across the creek. For your convenience, we provide two family shower/restroom facilities on-site. Our cozy cabins feature one room with a full bathroom each, and we offer one handicap-accessible cabin for your comfort and convenience.

92%

(120)

Critter Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sevierville, TN

We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 2 rescued horses and a donkey. A lynx, serval cat, sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 6 dogs , 3 house cats We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge, with shows and go karts or Townsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water, wifi and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

96%

(471)

Low Meadow Farms

19 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Knoxville, TN

Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.

Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Andrews, NC

All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views. Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee border. Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby. Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.

98%

(200)

The Heart Center

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Robbinsville, NC

The Heart Center sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest. The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary for people wishing to get away from it all. A place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment. Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature. At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, and relaxing experience! Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy.

98%

(83)

Smoky Mountain Meadows

165 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents57 acres · Bryson City, NC

(Please Note: Hipcamp does not have an easy way to add in Pet and Child fees. You will need to go to EXTRAS and add in number of pets ($5/pet/per night) for cabins and/or number of children ($5/child/night) on all sites SEPERATE from adults when making your reservation. IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED $10/NIGHT FOR EACH CHILD INSTEAD OF $5. We will no longer be issuing refunds or store credits for the overcharge.) When you enter Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground, you can leave all the “rush-rush” of your daily life behind. You will find yourself in a beautiful valley with quiet green meadows and a bubbling brook encompassing your surroundings. We are almost half-way between Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge. We have been host to the Carolina Canoe Club's annual Week of Rivers Event for over 25 years! Thanks everyone! 2023 Season: March 31 – Oct 31 Rules for the Campground 1. 100 % Refund less credit card processing fee if you cancel before 14 days of your arrival date. 50% Refund if you cancel between 14 and 7 days of your arrival date. No Refund if you cancel within 6 days of your arrival date. 2. CHECK OUT: Noon; CHECK IN:Cabins, Campers and Glamping Tents: 2pm All Other Sites: Noon 3. QUIET TIME. Weekdays 10pm – 8am Weekends 11pm – 8am 4. CHECK OUT PROCEDURES. Camp must be broken down by noon on departure day. If you stay past noon you could be charged for an additional day. Extension possible with pre-approval. You must inform the office when you are leaving. 5. All Overnight Guests Must Pay 6. Trash must be taken to the Green Bins located at the lower corner of the upper field 7. No washing vehicles 8. PETS.Must always be kept on a leash. Must be picked up after by the owner. Must never be left unattended (exceptions apply).

94%

(199)

Harmony hollow

9 sites · Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land:Hi and thanks so much for checking out Harmony Farm . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood. Only a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains national park . There are too many local attractions to list from horseback riding to shopping outlet malls . Free firewood at every site upon your arrival. There is a composting potty in the barn area that has been upgraded recently as well as potable water . We are accepting tents, trucks with campers, vans and pop up campers welcomed also . We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm . There are many private areas along the creekside for your primitive camp on our 60 acre horse farm. Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . Laundromat and food venues just minutes away. you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 60 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.

Star Hosts in Lake Santeetlah

100%

(132)

Mountain Creek Rest

2 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic, and very, very private campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you would like to invite friends! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 4 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Both Heartstone and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 5 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Conleys Creek Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Whittier, NC

We purchased our nine-acre property a little over three years ago. It was a run down, small, manufactured home park with a farmhouse on it. It has been an ongoing labor of love to transform it into a small, unique RV and tent camping park along beautiful Conleys Creek. We only offer 4 tent spots (first come, first served), as well as 4 RV spots. We rent out our 38' RV separately. We have torn down and repurposed some of the manufactured homes on the property. We continue to create numerous gardens with veggies and herbs. We have also planted numerous fruit and flowering trees, bushes and flowers for bold color throughout the year. Our property is completely pesticide free. We currently have 11 free range chickens, known as The Dixie Chicks! Guests enjoy feeding, petting and collecting their eggs, which are delicious! We offer both RV and tent camping on both sides of Conleys Creek. Each site has a grill and fire pit. Fish or cool off in our creek, which is regularly stocked with trout. As a convenience to our guests, we sell eggs, firewood and ice. Enjoy the game room playing billiards or shooting darts. Enjoy the nice weather and play one of our numerous outdoor yard games. We have a very clean, private guest bath house, excellent WI-FI and a dump station. Hike up our mountain range to locate our second creek. Our guests love how convenient our location is to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We are nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee. Close to other charming towns, such as Dillsboro and Sylva, and many outdoor attractions. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, tubing, kayaking and whitewater rapids, all nearby our property. This is our home, business and new lifestyle. Come and enjoy it with us!

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing but will need a landowner permission slip as little snowbird creek is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

NEW!!!! Blue Ridge Basecamp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Topton, NC

Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 5 fully stocked campers and 5 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available April 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20 minute drive.

Under $50

100%

(132)

Mountain Creek Rest

2 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic, and very, very private campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you would like to invite friends! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 4 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Both Heartstone and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 5 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!

NEW!!!! Blue Ridge Basecamp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Topton, NC

Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 5 fully stocked campers and 5 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available April 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20 minute drive.

Critter Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sevierville, TN

We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 2 rescued horses and a donkey. A lynx, serval cat, sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 6 dogs , 3 house cats We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge, with shows and go karts or Townsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water, wifi and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

Conleys Creek Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Whittier, NC

We purchased our nine-acre property a little over three years ago. It was a run down, small, manufactured home park with a farmhouse on it. It has been an ongoing labor of love to transform it into a small, unique RV and tent camping park along beautiful Conleys Creek. We only offer 4 tent spots (first come, first served), as well as 4 RV spots. We rent out our 38' RV separately. We have torn down and repurposed some of the manufactured homes on the property. We continue to create numerous gardens with veggies and herbs. We have also planted numerous fruit and flowering trees, bushes and flowers for bold color throughout the year. Our property is completely pesticide free. We currently have 11 free range chickens, known as The Dixie Chicks! Guests enjoy feeding, petting and collecting their eggs, which are delicious! We offer both RV and tent camping on both sides of Conleys Creek. Each site has a grill and fire pit. Fish or cool off in our creek, which is regularly stocked with trout. As a convenience to our guests, we sell eggs, firewood and ice. Enjoy the game room playing billiards or shooting darts. Enjoy the nice weather and play one of our numerous outdoor yard games. We have a very clean, private guest bath house, excellent WI-FI and a dump station. Hike up our mountain range to locate our second creek. Our guests love how convenient our location is to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We are nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee. Close to other charming towns, such as Dillsboro and Sylva, and many outdoor attractions. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, tubing, kayaking and whitewater rapids, all nearby our property. This is our home, business and new lifestyle. Come and enjoy it with us!

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing but will need a landowner permission slip as little snowbird creek is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

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Camping near Lake Santeetlah guide

Overview

Take Indian Lakes Scenic Byway to the heart of Santeetlah Lake, where crystal blue waters and tree-covered hills cover the landscape. Explore the lake with a boat rental from Santeetlah Marina, which offers pontoon boats, ski boats, and kayaks, or enjoy a day under the sun at a local beach. Lakeside camping, cabin rentals, and RV campsites in town welcome campers year-round. Many campgrounds throughout the area offer standard sites, full hookups, fire pits, and more. Natural attractions, like Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cheoah Point Recreation Area, make camping near Lake Santeetlah a trip to remember.

Where to go

Nantahala National Forest

North Carolina’s fourth largest forest, Nantahala National Forest features 531,286 acres of lush landscape, including the Appalachian summit of Lone Bald, deep gorges, and shaded valleys. Grab a map and explore the many waterfalls flowing through the park, as well. Campgrounds tucked between trees offer tent and RV campsites with access to nearby waters and hiking trails. Some campsites are also outfitted with full hookups and restrooms while other dispersed spots among backcountry hideouts lead to epic camping memories.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gather the gear for Great Smoky Mountains National Park to explore ancient mountains, old growth forests, and waterfalls. A short 30-minute drive from Lake Santeetlah, campers can settle into frontcountry and backcountry campsites, group camps, horse campsites, and cabin rentals. Many are equipped with fire rings with grates and picnic tables, but there are no hookups or showers available. Then enjoy the streams and waterfalls of the Deep Creek area on a paddleboat, hike, or bike trip through the park. Historians will love Cataloochee Valley’s 19th and 20th century buildings, along with Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill.

Cheoah Point Recreation Area

A short drive from Lake Santeetlah brings campers to Cheoah Point Recreation Area, a peninsula just north of Lake Santeetlah. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, Cheoah Point features well-maintained campgrounds for tents and RVs with beautiful views and hiking trails—including access to the Appalachian Trail. Full hookups, fire pits, grills, picnic areas, and shower facilities create cozy camping in this nature nook. Reservations are a must for this highly sought after spot.

When to go

Lake Santeetlah’s subtropical temperatures provide warm summers and mild winters for enjoyable camping year-round. The height of summer heat arrives in July, with temperatures reaching an average of 88°F. Summer is perfect for visiting the lake and exploring Nantahala’s waterfalls. Winter cools things down with temperatures in the 50s. In January, temperatures can drop below freezing overnight.