The best ranch campgrounds near Andrews, North Carolina

In the western corner of North Carolina sits Andrews, a small scenic town that sits in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Just a short drive away, Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons campers to discover scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Then, take a scenic drive along Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile scenic byway that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. Or explore the vast natural beauty of Nantahala National Forest, which offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas near several developed tent and RV sites. More hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching is available at Cherokee National Forest as well as primitive campsites. In Andrews, it’s possible to pitch a tent by the riverfront and start a campfire under the stars or enjoy the amenities of a glampsite or cabin.

97% (370)

Top-rated campgrounds

In the western corner of North Carolina sits Andrews, a small scenic town that sits in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Just a short drive away, Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons campers to discover scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Then, take a scenic drive along Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile scenic byway that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. Or explore the vast natural beauty of Nantahala National Forest, which offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas near several developed tent and RV sites. More hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching is available at Cherokee National Forest as well as primitive campsites. In Andrews, it’s possible to pitch a tent by the riverfront and start a campfire under the stars or enjoy the amenities of a glampsite or cabin.

97% (370)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%

(131)

40mi from Andrews · 5 sites · Lodging · Walland, TN

My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world! Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range. It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens! Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses!

2. Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

96%

(26)

25mi from Andrews · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Franklin, NC

Private end of road property in the Cowee Valley of Franklin NC, which is the first resupply stop along the Appalachian Trail through the Smoky Mountains. Cowee Valley is a gorgeous scenic valley with farmland and winding roads and mountains on all sides. Idyllic drive in with plenty of cows grazing, deer and wild turkey running around and amazing sunsets. Cowee Campground has newly been made into a campground, previously undeveloped. We have left most of it undisturbed to maintain the natural and peaceful nature vibes. This land is a short distance off the main roads and small/private. All tent sites are in the shaded forest and RV hookups are just a few steps away with hardwoods filling out and providing partial shade. It's a quiet area with the sounds of nature and leaves rustling. We hope you'll appreciate and enjoy the beauty and tranquility as much as we do. If you want to car/truck camp without hookups we have space for that too. Just let us know. We have a beautiful 4 bathroom bathhouse, with ADA shower and another bathroom with clawfoot tub/shower and private back deck. 2 large firepits with Andirondack chairs and a separate picnic table and grill area. There is a large communal Yoga/Event deck and covered Bar/Hangout area beneath - hammock, bar top, darts and it's own firepit as well. Plus Corn hole and Horseshoe pits for your enjoyment. For weekly or monthly RV reservations, please contact 828-371-8471. Weekly RV rates are $325.00 and Monthly are $750.00 Also available for Retreat or Event rental.

3. Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

98%

(54)

36mi from Andrews · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · Clarkesville, GA

Property Description: I promise you the best camping experience in North Georgia. Minutes from Helen Ga in the Sautee Nacoochee Valley. Many hiking and biking trails 256 acres of protected wildlife conservation all inside a safe and secured private gated residence. Located 10 min from Helen Georgia and beautiful Lake Burton. Key Features: Private Lake: Enjoy the serenity of our private lake, perfect for fishing and canoeing. World Class Fishing on site with trophy size large mouth Bass and Brim and World class fly fishing just minutes away. Each campsite has table chairs fire pit and is spaciously designed for privacy and the ultimate camping experience 5 star showers and bathrooms are one of the many benefits to choosing this location. very nice bathrooms and showers shared kitchen and library office available wifi and handicap accessible sites. Campfire Nights: Relax by the campfire and roast marshmallows. Firewood is provided at low cost. please do not bring your own firewood as we must protect this land from outside bugs and critters that come from a far Flexible Stays: Book your stay for up to 14 days to accommodate your needs. Accessibility: We offer handicap-accessible sites to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors. Primitive Camping as well as electric and water sites are available. Stay Connected: Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi. Convenient Parking: Ample parking is available for all guests and you can park right next to where you set up your tent or camper. Unforgettable Experiences await and that is my goal as your host to provide you with the best camping experience of your life. I truly mean it. I get great joy out of sharing this magnificent property with nature loves and family and individual campers Nature Walks: Explore the stunning trails surrounding the campground. Stargazing: Marvel at the breathtaking night sky, far from city lights. Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and birds best bird watching in Georgia. American bald eagle family lives on site. Book your stay today and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

4. Lot Tent / Teepee Area

12mi from Andrews · 1 site · Tent · Murphy, NC

Creek-Front Tent Lot in Murphy, NC Set up your tent just steps from a peaceful creek and fall asleep to the sound of flowing water. This private, wooded site has a fire pit, picnic table, grill, showers, potable water, and even a pet-friendly atmosphere. It’s the ideal mix of rustic camping with a few creature comforts. Amenities for all guests 5 outdoor kitchens with propane stoves. Outdoor showers (hot & cold) during winter and frost days we CANNOT garantee hot water Dry, odor-free compost/incinerator toilets (our prototype system) we will provide for Shampoo - Bath Soap - Conditioner - Dish Soap - Hand Soap - Toilet Papar ecofriendly plant based produce it is not allowed to use any of your chimical not plant based produce please read our terms and conditions Picnic tables in sharing Pool table room & local farm organic mini-market. Children & families: a beautiful Pirate Boat playground for kids and parents to enjoy together. Bring your gear, unplug, and enjoy a quiet retreat surrounded by nature.

5. Mountain Fortress Miracle Farms

91%

(28)

50mi from Andrews · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Toccoa, GA

This property has been in a local family for over 100 years when we purchased it in 2020. It is a peace filled place! We enjoy caring for our animals as well as sharing this land with others. We feel we are just God’s caretakers! Learn more about this land: For tent and shorter vehicles, site #1 has own drive and clearing under a large tree, site #2 is a hike in site back in the woods near a small creek not visible from the drive. For larger RV, site #3 has flat side yard and parks on paved driveway near main house, site #4 is a short hike back with tent space and fire pit near a small creek right next to the National Forest. Fire pit made ready upon request. Horses, goats, and chickens on property but away from your site. Stars are amazing here. Property backs up to 880,000 acres of National Forest. Your site is next to forest access road. Take it back to hunt, tent, hike, run, off-road bike or ATV if licensed plates on vehicle. Several small creeks on property to splash in or creek hike. Horse lesson available on property. Bottle hunting, farm fresh eggs, cut firewood, and farm tours available as added features. Two toilet bags and a bucket provided per night at camping sites, RV site is a dry site. Guide available to take you on nearby river kayak and waterfall hiking excursions upon request.

6. Critter Camp

91%

(179)

36mi from Andrews · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sevierville, TN

I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. 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 and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

7. Walnut Hollow Ranch

99%

(72)

12mi from Andrews · 19 sites · RVs · Hayesville, NC

Walnut Hollow Ranch sits in the Nantahala Mountain Region of the Great Smoky Mountains. The 155 acre farm is a horseshoe shaped cove with Wiggin's Top at its crown. The land consists of 67 acres of cattle pastures, 5 ponds and 3-5 miles of hiking trails. The forest consists of lowland pines, poplar, dogwood, hickory and walnut trees. The upland consists of oaks, poplar and other hardwoods. Wildlife abounds at Walnut Hollow Ranch. Our residents include: wild turkeys, white tail deer, red fox, red tail hawks, bluebirds, finches and many others. Passerby's include: wood and mallard ducks, blue and white herons, river otters, black bear, bobcat, coyote and migratory birds.The ponds include: big mouth bass, small mouth bass and brim.

8. Firefly Creek Retreat

100%

(2)

12mi from Andrews · 1 site · Tent, RV · Murphy, NC

Nestled along a gentle creek and surrounded by whispering woods, Firefly Creek Retreat is your sanctuary for peace and connection. Watch fireflies dance at dusk, enjoy evenings under starlit skies, and wake to the soft sounds of nature. This is the perfect lot tent seeking seclusion and serenity, with direct access to our farm trails and abundant wildlife. To enjoy Owl creek your Tent need to be set up off grid we dont offer electricity

Camper favorites near Andrews

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lot Tent / Teepee Area

12mi from Andrews · 1 site · Tent · Murphy, NC

Creek-Front Tent Lot in Murphy, NC Set up your tent just steps from a peaceful creek and fall asleep to the sound of flowing water. This private, wooded site has a fire pit, picnic table, grill, showers, potable water, and even a pet-friendly atmosphere. It’s the ideal mix of rustic camping with a few creature comforts. Amenities for all guests 5 outdoor kitchens with propane stoves. Outdoor showers (hot & cold) during winter and frost days we CANNOT garantee hot water Dry, odor-free compost/incinerator toilets (our prototype system) we will provide for Shampoo - Bath Soap - Conditioner - Dish Soap - Hand Soap - Toilet Papar ecofriendly plant based produce it is not allowed to use any of your chimical not plant based produce please read our terms and conditions Picnic tables in sharing Pool table room & local farm organic mini-market. Children & families: a beautiful Pirate Boat playground for kids and parents to enjoy together. Bring your gear, unplug, and enjoy a quiet retreat surrounded by nature.

Mountain Fortress Miracle Farms

91%

(28)

50mi from Andrews · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Toccoa, GA

This property has been in a local family for over 100 years when we purchased it in 2020. It is a peace filled place! We enjoy caring for our animals as well as sharing this land with others. We feel we are just God’s caretakers! Learn more about this land: For tent and shorter vehicles, site #1 has own drive and clearing under a large tree, site #2 is a hike in site back in the woods near a small creek not visible from the drive. For larger RV, site #3 has flat side yard and parks on paved driveway near main house, site #4 is a short hike back with tent space and fire pit near a small creek right next to the National Forest. Fire pit made ready upon request. Horses, goats, and chickens on property but away from your site. Stars are amazing here. Property backs up to 880,000 acres of National Forest. Your site is next to forest access road. Take it back to hunt, tent, hike, run, off-road bike or ATV if licensed plates on vehicle. Several small creeks on property to splash in or creek hike. Horse lesson available on property. Bottle hunting, farm fresh eggs, cut firewood, and farm tours available as added features. Two toilet bags and a bucket provided per night at camping sites, RV site is a dry site. Guide available to take you on nearby river kayak and waterfall hiking excursions upon request.

Critter Camp

91%

(179)

36mi from Andrews · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sevierville, TN

I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. 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 and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

Walnut Hollow Ranch

99%

(72)

12mi from Andrews · 19 sites · RVs · Hayesville, NC

Walnut Hollow Ranch sits in the Nantahala Mountain Region of the Great Smoky Mountains. The 155 acre farm is a horseshoe shaped cove with Wiggin's Top at its crown. The land consists of 67 acres of cattle pastures, 5 ponds and 3-5 miles of hiking trails. The forest consists of lowland pines, poplar, dogwood, hickory and walnut trees. The upland consists of oaks, poplar and other hardwoods. Wildlife abounds at Walnut Hollow Ranch. Our residents include: wild turkeys, white tail deer, red fox, red tail hawks, bluebirds, finches and many others. Passerby's include: wood and mallard ducks, blue and white herons, river otters, black bear, bobcat, coyote and migratory birds.The ponds include: big mouth bass, small mouth bass and brim.

Firefly Creek Retreat

100%

(2)

12mi from Andrews · 1 site · Tent, RV · Murphy, NC

Nestled along a gentle creek and surrounded by whispering woods, Firefly Creek Retreat is your sanctuary for peace and connection. Watch fireflies dance at dusk, enjoy evenings under starlit skies, and wake to the soft sounds of nature. This is the perfect lot tent seeking seclusion and serenity, with direct access to our farm trails and abundant wildlife. To enjoy Owl creek your Tent need to be set up off grid we dont offer electricity

Stories from the community

R

Ryan

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Awesome experience. It was our kids first time camping. They loved the animals and learning how to work with the mini horses. Janice and Jaden are phenomenal hosts and teachers.

A beautiful snowfall during our second week.

K

Kathryn

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

12 nights at Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

Cowee is the best campground we’ve ever been to - and we’ve been to a lot all up and down the east coast. Tanya has clearly designed this campground to every last detail with an aesthetic hand. From the campsites themselves and their views, to the public spaces, conveniences of a laundry room to bathrooms which look like bathrooms out of a camp beautiful magazine. And Tanya is absolutely fabulous - responsive and very caring. We are definitely coming back!

N

Naoki

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Awesome experience again! Host checked on us frequently and very accommodating. Will be back again definitely!

Lindsey

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Critter Camp

I had such a peaceful time at Kimber’s farm. I really enjoyed seeing the horse and donkey while it still felt relaxing and quiet. Close enough to some touristy stuff but also felt adequately tucked away.

Darlene

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Critter Camp

The host was very cordial and kind. She has a great deal of property there and had several other people come during the weekend however we were able to pull our travel trailer in a fenced area which allowed us to let our dog run free, which we greatly appreciated. This was the first hip camp we had ever stayed in and it worked out really well for us because it gave us the opportunity to be right in the middle of the things we wanted to see and do like Cade‘s Cove Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. She was actually hosting I believe a community scavenger hunt on our property and the other campers participated and had a good time with it. My husband and I just stayed within our little area because we’ve just recently gotten married and wanted our time.

Conference center provides showers bathrooms shelter and fully kitchen refrigerator microwave bbq grills etc

L

Lida

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Beautiful property! We had a wonderful time. Would definitely stay again!

G

Greg

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Nice property if you can get the campsite down at the lake

R

Rebekah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

We enjoyed our time here. The showers and bathrooms were clean and great. There were plenty of places to sit down to eat or enjoy the fire. We would come back.

M

Mariah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Had a great time tent camping right on the lake! Great fishing experience and overall just a great weekend away! Had to leave alittle early due to rain but all in all would definitely recommend! Nice clean place!

M

Madison

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

What an amazing experience! A slice of Heaven and Janice is so great and explains everything upon arrival. I will be back many more times!

Douglas

October 2025

24 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

We had an enjoyable time at the campground. I have a van camper class B and site 6 is plenty large enough. The restrooms and showers are very nice and clean. The deck and area under are very nice place to relax and party or just enjoy the outdoors.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

We loved camping here. Kids had so much fun fishing and using the canoe. Thanks so much.

N

Naoki

October 2025

3 nights at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Excellent site, with great views and plenty of fish to catch. Bathroom and shower is clean. It’s my son’s favorite site now

M

Morgan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Firefly Creek Retreat

Alessandra and Gianfranco were excellent hosts and provide a perfect camping experience for those looking to connect with nature but still have some of the comforts of home. As hosts, they were available and accommodating but nonintrusive. We booked last minute for a group of 4 families and they welcomed us with open arms. We had one overlanding trailer with a rooftop tent, one jeep with a rooftop tent and 4 ground tents. They have two great spots to set up camp, one in a wooded area with two toilets and a kitchen area and another with a toilet and outdoor shower, kitchen, fire pit, and teepee. We could have all easily fit in either space but chose the space near the teepee. We were all pleasantly surprised by the toilets… they were comfortable and easy to use and had no smell at all. Alessandra and Gianfranco cleaned them a couple of times a day. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper with you though! We are hoping to visit again this winter when it snows and we are already planning another group trip in the spring.

My daughter finishing up the fairy house behind our campsite

Amy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

I honestly can’t say enough good about Tanya and her property! She was incredibly kind and quick to respond to any questions we had. You can tell a lot of thought and love has gone into this campground. It was the perfect mix for my boyfriend (who likes to rough it) and me and my daughter who prefer more of a glamping vibe . Best of both worlds and then some! The gem mine on the property was really great too. We extended our stay because we enjoyed being there so much. We will be back and tell all our friends about this place. :)

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Friendly host. There is wifi and full cell service. Nice views, caught multiple bass in the pond. They check in on you if you need anything. Bathrooms and showers very clean. 15 mins form helen nice mountain roads and views.

C

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

This is a well maintained campground at a beautiful location. The tent sites are in the woods and offer the feeling of a remote camping experience. But this has all the amenities of a well-appointed campground, including a shower house thoughtfully designed and built using reclaimed materials. As others have said, it’s like no campground shower house you’ve ever seen - more like private bathrooms at a lodge. The adjoining gem mine is a fun way to spend a few hours. Tanya is a welcoming host. Her creativity and vision has made this a really special place.

D

DeAnna

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

The camp was very nice! We had an awesome stay! William was wonderful and made sure we had everything we needed. It was really nice to have the shower and fridge too!

S

Seth

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground

The Cowee campground was perfect for a quick overnight tent trip with my family. The location and scenery are top notch. The bath house was new and clean - even better than pictured. My kids enjoyed all the open space to explore the property. WiFi on the property and power outlets in the bathrooms were nice creature comforts for the family. Tanya responded quickly to any questions through the Hipcamp app. We’ll definitely be back - highly recommended!

M

Mckenzie

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Camping here was fantastic! Loved all the critters!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Andrews guide

Where to go

Nantahala National Forest

Take a drive to Nantahala National Forest, where campers can walk along hiking trails like Cable Cove or Spirit Ridge while anglers fish for rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Then, mountain bike on the Tsali Recreation Area trails, which offer over 40 miles of singletrack trails with stunning views of Fontana Lake. The forest also features numerous campgrounds, such as Nantahala River Campground and Standing Indian Campground, that provide amenities like picnic areas, fire rings, and restrooms.

Cherokee National Forest

About two hours from Andrews lies Cherokee National Forest. Campers can hike the Appalachian Trail, fish for catfish and brook trout, boat on Lake Ocoee, or whitewater raft down one of the seven forest rivers. RVers may enjoy the two Forest Service scenic byways through the mountains. Then, set up camp at nearby campgrounds, including riverfront RV sites at Indian Boundary Recreation Area with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to electrical hookups. Tent camping is also available with amenities like toilets and showers.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Approximately 40 miles north of Andrews rests Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its stunning beauty and diverse ecosystems. Embark on Alum Cave Trail or Rainbow Falls Trail to see sights above and below ground. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and a variety of bird species, including the majestic peregrine falcon. Anglers can cast their lines in popular streams like Little River, Abrams Creek, and Deep Creek, known for brook, rainbow, and brown trout. The park also offers several well-equipped campgrounds with facilities like restrooms, picnic areas, and access to hiking trails.

When to go

Andrews experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Spring boasts mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, perfect for hiking and exploring. Summer brings warm weather in the 80s and longer days, ideal for water activities in nearby lakes and rivers. Fall showcases stunning foliage colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for camping and hiking. Some campgrounds may have limited services or seasonal closures during winter, which brings cooler temperatures in the high 40s to low 50s and occasional snowfall.