Waterside camping near Andrews

Splashes of water and a plethora of lakeside hikes await campers in Andrews.

97% (5318 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Andrews

2 top waterside campgrounds near Andrews

Mountaintop Fantasy

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best treehouse in 2023, you can choose among three separate and memorable experiences in our 8 acre compound: 1) a woodsy, peaceful glamping experience with million dollar views in an 6 person tent;; 2) a glampingTreehouse with W/C; and 3) the newly built 2BR 1 1/2 BA private annex to our house. Each can be all yours - this is not a commercial campground. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim in the Lake and at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just chill out. These are truly unique high altitude sites with amenities you won't find elsewhere. Both are in a gated "subdivision" that has 60 lots but only 8 houses - the rest is woods and the only place in your vicinity is our cabin. With unmatched mountain and western views, if you like the great outdoors on the mountain and in the woods, This is the place for you and your family. If you like a more camping style with tent (provided), covered camp kitchen, table and firepit ( along with the uncovered ones) check out Smoky Mountain High. Don't like tents? No problem. Check out our Treehouse with kitchen, bunks, grill, cooktop, heaters, W/C and more. Prefer indoor rustic luxury? The Glenville Aerie (4100') is a fully furnished, annex we built for our family, guests and friends who value their privacy. Walkie-talkies to facilitate mountain communications. Board games too. Access to our dock, canoes and kayak? Yep. Adult life preservers provided. Secret nature trail to our kids playground and trampoline. Hammock, kid's swing, hanging chair and dining for 6. Visit with Jake the Cat and our chickens. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite. These mountains are justly known for hiking, fishing, water sports, chilling out and forgetting about the Virus, politics and the nuisances of the workaday world. Our goal is to provide you and your family with an unforgettable and magical N.C. mountain experience, while reducing your blood pressure.

77%

(13)

Drifting Meadows

99 sites · LodgingTellico Plains, TN

Hello! We are Drifting Meadows. A small community located just shy of three hours from Atlanta. Nestled in TN. Not far from Chattanooga and Knoxville. We strive to hold art events, educational seminars, weddings, corporate get-aways and much more. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn more about this land:Hello! We are Drifting Meadows. A small community located just shy of three hours from Atlanta. Nestled in the Tennessee mountains. Not far from Chattanooga and Knoxville. Primitive camp spots "with community campfire" available with quick access to nearby waterfalls, a lake, and many hiking trailheads. You can also get into town to see live bluegrass bands on the weekends or stop by the local bakery for some amazing fresh food selections. We provide fire wood and portable toilets. Please note that we are off grid so we request that you use all degradable products if possible. (shower supplies are provided). Also, we do request that any trash/recycling products are taken with you when you leave. Looking forward to hosting you.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(10)

Black Rock Mountain State Park

Mountain City, Georgia

100%

(1)

Lake Barkley

Cumberland City, Tennessee

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Waterside camping near Andrews guide

Overview

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.

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.