Camping Near Banner Elk, NC, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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North Carolina
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Banner Elk

97% (7884 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Banner Elk

Community favorites near Banner Elk

Public campgrounds near Banner Elk

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Grandfather Mountain Campground

1 site In Grandfather Mountain State Park

Hiking down Roan mountain on foggy morning.

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Roan Mountain Campground

141 sites · RVs, Tents In Roan Mountain State Park

Worth the stop on the way out of the Gorge

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(40)

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Pisgah National Forest

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Mortimer Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Pisgah National Forest

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(2)

Elk Knob Campground

13 sites In Elk Knob State Park

The view from Wautuga Dam, looking towards Carden Bluff Campground.

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(2)

Cardens Bluff Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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(8)

Briar Bottom Group Campground

6 sites In Pisgah National Forest

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(5)

New River Campground

81 sites · RVs, Tents In New River State Park

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(2)

Backbone Rock Campground

1 site In Cherokee National Forest

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Grayson Highlands Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Grayson Highlands State Park

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Little Oak Campground

42 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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(4)

Grindstone Campground

60 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Lake Lookout Campground

We loved camping at Lake Lookout Campground. The owners were very nice and it was a quiet retreat for the weekend. We set up tubes and were able to fish right next to our campsite!

3 nights at Babbling Brook Campground

This little piece of unplugged heaven was perfect for our getaway. Super fun to explore the area and easy to find. The hosts were great and very welcoming. We’d love to go back.

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

Our yurt experience was great. Remote and quiet, it’s an ideal relaxing weekend!

Weekend Trip to Plumtree Campground Tents & Cabins

Beautiful campground, friendly and helpful staff. Very clean bathhouses. Camp store well supplied . A great stay for us

1 night at Hidden River Experience

Beautiful, private, serene, safe. I had my car at the site, and my dog, she loved splashing around the River. Make sure you follow the arrival instructions to a T, it’s a little complicated if you’re not familiar with the area.

Weekend Trip to Hidden River Experience

Excellent campsites and beautiful views. I’ll definitely be back.

Andrea

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

I can not find the words to fully capture the beauty and magic of this stay at Gnome Yome. We absolutely loved every second of it. While it had everything we could possibly need, we embraced the way nature and the views brought us connection and disconnection from all distractions. We will definitely be back!

Weekend Trip to NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

Amy was a fantastic host and extremely responsive! The location is so convenient if you want to enjoy the outdoors and activities on the river, while still being so close to town. Amy made us feel very safe and welcome. We hope to return again soon! Thank you for sharing such a special place with everyone, Amy!

Weekend Trip to NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

Amy’s sites are in a beautiful grassy spot right on the river. Very comfortable place to set up a tent. We enjoyed building a fire right beside the river. Amy provided firewood for a small fee and was so thoughtful to provide fire starters, S’mores items, and some other fun snacks for the kids. Our boys loved fishing directly in front of our campsite and caught a few smallmouth bass. It’s close to Zaloo’s canoes who was our canoe/kayak outfitter. Handy portajohn and running water were great to have close by. We would definitely recommend Amy’s campsites. She was really friendly and flexible. When we had to switch weekends due to bad weather she allowed us to move to a different weekend. Thanks Amy!

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Me and the family loved camping here. Fairly large campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. Access to fresh water and showers. Toilets are porta John’s. I would recommend to anyone looking to just get away and relax. Not a lot to do for kids but otherwise it’s great!

David

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Awesome campsite and the Safari tent was next level camping. Cooked a great campfire meal and was lucky enough to have a late night rain to sleep to. My kind of camping! Blair put me on a great hike, a cool excursion up the mountain to the orchard and a perfect midday lunch spot.

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

We had a great time! Host was accommodating and we arrived a bit early and as the unit was already clean, they allowed us to set up a bit early before kayaking at lake James! The glamping Yurt/ MTG2 was so cute! Comfy bed! There is not regular power source, but solar that operates a fan, lights, and a usb outlet (not standard plug). The social area with hammocks and tables was lovely to overlook the Mountain View! The highlight was definitely the spa purchase! Soaking tub with sauna! The showers had hot water (was outside so bring a robe!) and portajohns for restroom facilities. Water is available at a central location, but not at each individual campsite (one large jug provided next to fire pit). Overall a fabulous glamping experience!

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

TFC is a great spot! Jud was very welcoming and accommodating and the views from the top are next level. We had visited South Mountains State Park a few times previously and it's great considering how close it is to the Charlotte area. But TFC has even better views of the South Mountains and a pretty awesome river to play in. 30 min from several foothills towns worth exploring. Very easy camper hookup, nice flat spots, and a great facility with bathrooms and some extra seating for the great views. Thanks, Jud and family!

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

We spent 2 nights at Site 5 and had a great experience! From the start, Jud stopped by to ensure we got settled in and made sure we didn’t have any questions. His hospitality during the entire stay exceeded anywhere I’ve been. There is a done of stuff to do, e.g. explore/hike, fish, kayak. The views when you wake up in the morning are great and the light pollution is non existent.

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Great place and host, have already booked our second stay!

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

My friends and I all had a great time staying at campsite 6! There was plenty of space for us to spread out the 3 tents we brought and have room for our vehicles as well. I was easily able to drive up to the campsite in my smaller car. The portapotty was only a short walk from the campsite. Having running water not directly at the campsite but being able to refill our water jugs was very helpful. Our group also booked thes spa which was a great daytime activity. Even with 7 of us we all had fun. The tiki torch rental was also a great add on and a fun surprise for the others in my group. The hikes to the nearby overlook and creek were short but well worth. We hope to return to campsite 6 in years to come!

9 nights at Creekside RV Park - with Wifi!

Nice spot right off of the Interstate. The Wi-Fi was good enough for streaming.

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

Evan was the best host and was so helpful loved my weekend here with family away from the real world so peaceful definitely recommend staying here!!

Weekend Trip to The Human Spirit

We loved camping here—beautiful location and stunning views. Our AWD SUV handled the off-road drive with ease. There was no firewood initially, but someone later brought some and stocked it at the site.

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

Amazing experience! Elizabeth is a great host. The site has everything you need. The dogs are such an added bonus. My son and husband love it and will be back!

Star Hosts in Banner Elk

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Starlight Hills

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC

Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking! Our Pond is now OPEN! We are a constantly evolving location. Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature. Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities. A creek on the property is lovely for walking. Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach! We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system). As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers. Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️. Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.

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Hidden River Experience

7 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · West Jefferson, NC

Welcome to the secluded campsite nestled on the banks of the New River! This primitive haven offers a tranquil retreat, allowing you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Surrounded by untouched wilderness, this campsite provides the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. As you settle into this serene paradise, you'll find yourself captivated by the abundance of activities available. Begin your day with a peaceful morning of fishing, casting your line into the pristine waters of the New River in pursuit of the perfect catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this river teems with various species, promising an exciting and rewarding experience. Embark on scenic hikes that lead you through dense forests, revealing stunning vistas and hidden waterfalls. The well-marked trails cater to all skill levels, ensuring everyone can partake in the joys of exploration. You'll have ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photos and make lasting memories along the way. For the more adventurous, hop on a bike and pedal along the winding paths that meander through the wilderness. Feel the rush of wind against your face as you navigate the undulating terrain, taking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. With each turn, new discoveries await, making every bike ride an exhilarating adventure. To fully immerse yourself in the river's splendor, embark on a kayaking journey. Glide along the gentle currents, as the river guides you through stunning landscapes and quiet coves. The New River's calm waters provide an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike. As you explore this campsite's pristine environment, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. From graceful deer grazing in the distance to vibrant birds soaring overhead, nature enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Safety is of utmost importance in this secluded sanctuary. The campsite is well-maintained and offers designated areas for camping, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience. Whether you're setting up your tent or gathering around a crackling campfire, you can rest assured knowing that you are surrounded by a tranquil and safe environment. Prepare to unwind, reconnect with nature, and embrace the simple pleasures of outdoor life at this primitive, secluded campsite on the New River. It's a haven for fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable retreat into the heart of nature.

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Riverside Wanderer Hideaway

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Morganton, NC

Relax by the river, hidden amongst trees and fields, where sprawling space meets abundant outdoor adventure. Your riverside, self-serving, primitive stay will leave you feeling refreshed and closer to nature. The cool, shaded space snuggled between a stream and rushing river will be your own private retreat, on several acres, along beautiful Henry Fork River. Seclusion awaits, minutes from historic downtown Morganton restaurants, shops, breweries and more, even nestled along a “winery trail”. If you’re looking to stay put – tubing, body boarding, fishing, paddling, and creative fun await you. Sip your percolated morning coffee by the rushing river, spend afternoons fishing, painting and skipping rocks, into an evening roaming the area and fireside cuddling. If you’re seeking to venture out, head minutes away to hike South Mountain State Park trails and waterfalls, stroll Morganton greenway trails, take the kids (or pets) to all-inclusive Catawba Meadows Park (great disc golfing), cruise the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, explore the (literally!) cool Linville caverns, or splash around Lake James State Park beach area. The riverside area comfortably accommodates eight. Bring your family, friends, pets, and your sense of adventure!

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Tellurian Family Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents93 acres · Casar, NC

For more information, visit our website at www.telluriancampground.com Tellurian Family Campground offers conveniently located spacious travel trailer, camper, RV and tent camp sites with incredible views and access to a pristine mountain river. The property consists of 93 acres and 2780 feet (1⁄2 mile) of river frontage on the First Broad River. The First Broad River offers canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Smallmouth and freshwater sunfishing is incredible on this stretch of the river and there are also opportunities for mountain river catfish. Tellurian’s scenic location offers stunning vista views of the surrounding countryside, sprawling views of the South Mountain and Cherry Mountain ranges, as well as long range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The sunsets are amazing and the star lit skies are uninhibited by city lights. One of the few lights that can be seen at night lights up a steeple silhouetted against the mountain ridges. It’s truly a peaceful site. Tellurian is centrally located between Charlotte NC, Asheville NC, and Spartanburg SC in the small town of Casar, NC. We are located in a rural setting in the foothills on the edge of the South Mountains Range, a branch of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thank you for checking out our place! We are Jud and Amanda Wortman. We have three children – Emma Grace and Baxter (twins) and Elena Jo. As a family, we enjoy canoeing, kayaking and camping. We live 9 miles from Tellurian on a family farm. We have always enjoyed quiet secluded campsites, river floats and sitting by the river. After years of looking all over the mountains for a river property we could call our own, our favorite spot on the river came up for sale. It just so happened it was nearly halfway between where we both grew up. After many sleepless nights worrying if we could succeed or not (it was much larger than properties we had been looking for), we bought it! Our favorite spot on the river was virtually inaccessible by any way other than floating. But after hundreds of hours of hard work, we think we have developed a place where others too can enjoy the things we do about the property. We dream big and Tellurian remains a work in progress, but we feel we have created a place where folks can enjoy the peacefulness of nature, the river and incredible views. Naming our campground proved to be one of the most challenging tasks throughout the process of developing it. After many ideas and brainstorming sessions as a family, we decided to go with Tellurian. We know it’s a bit different; that’s what we like about it. We think our place stands out and, after visiting Tellurian, we think you’ll agree it does too. Tellurian Family Campground tel·lu·ri·an [təˈlo͝orēən] ADJECTIVE: of or inhabiting the earth. NOUN: an inhabitant of the earth.

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TangleWood Creekside Campsites

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC

A rocky creek winds through the woods at the base of several hikable peaks hidden just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wildlife enthusiasts are encouraged to explore, on foot or mountain-bike, anywhere within our 170 acres (or the adjoining 250 acres owned by the US Forestry Service off our Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor. The location is convenient to tons of local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities as well as shopping, dining, even wine tasting. We would be happy to supply a comprehensive list of the various local attractions upon request but the following are a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; drive the Blue Ridge parkway; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Crabtree Falls; cross Grandfather Mountains mile high bridge and explore the nearby towns of Spruce Pines or Little Switzerland. The scenic drives to Asheville, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk make them each wonderful day-trip destinations.

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Available this weekend

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joyville, camping site on elk creek

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Deep Gap, NC

Learn more about this land: camping sites on elk creek or smaller creek that feeds elk creek. trout fishing on stocked stream. mountain biking, hiking. 20 min. to Boone. n.c. Hiking trails can be fairly easy or as steep as your goat would like. there are dirt bike trails near by that can be ridden from camp site. come pan for gold in elk creek. Nice swimming hole at site, motorcycle campers welcome.

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Tri Mountain View

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Shady Valley, TN

Tri Mountain View Campground is located in the Northeast corner of Tennessee in the town of Shady Valley. With an elevation of 2,800 feet, Shady Valley is the second highest town in Tennessee. It is just 26 miles from the Bristol Raceway and the Bristol Caverns. It is just a 15 minute drive to Backbone rock and a short drive to the Appalachian Trail. The property was a Dairy Farm and went out of business in the late 90’s and since then there has been over 3,000 trees planted. Some of these trees include the rare Butternut and Hazelnut, but mostly White Pine, Walnut and Oaks. The property has approximately 1,000 feet of fishing on Beaver dam creek, so we recommend bringing waders. There is also a shower house, washer and dryer. https://trimountainview.com/ trimountainview.com

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Redeemers Ridge Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, RVs47 acres · Sparta, NC

Elevate your camping/glamping experience to new heights! Redeemers Ridge Retreat is our 47 acre property we have set apart for the intent of encouraging traditionally married couples and single non couples age 25 and older to rest, renew, and reconnect in the beauty of nature. TO ENSURE WE CAN PROVIDE ALL OUR GUESTS THE BEST EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE, we require all those interested in booking to first read our guest guidelines (rules). Returning to nature isn't just enjoyable; it's also beneficial. Yet, there are times when immersing oneself in nature serves as a means to disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with God and others, proving to be the pinnacle of rejuvenation! At Redeemers Ridge Retreat, we foster an atmosphere conducive to reconnection, rest, and renewal in the beauty and awe of nature. Our aim at Redeemers Ridge Retreat is to provide a personally enriching experience in intimate proportions. Offering a variety of options ranging from secluded and personal to communal and interpersonal, let us know how we can best assist you. (Refer to the individual Properties page for details and to make reservations.) Bookings are now open for: - Two Semi-Private RV Sites equipped with all the amenities to accommodate your needs, regardless of your RV's size or model. - STARGAZER Dome featuring a private hard-sided (not vinyl) glass ceiling glamping geodesic dome imported from Turkey. - BIG VIEW, the semi private tiny home with BIG views. Coming soon! THE BARN, a refurbished 1950s barn with a loft and gathering space. “Share what you have with God’s people, and practice hospitality” Romans 12:13

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Meadowsweet Gardens

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · West Jefferson, NC

Our home was built in 1895 by a scottish immigrant Joe Campbell. THe land was farmed for many years. When Miss Hazel, Joe's daughter died, the property was sold or inherited. We are blessed to own the home which has been renovated and 8 acres of the original property. Guests are welcome to stroll our land across the road and visit our many gardens and sitting areas or simply enjoy the serenity of the cabin and surrounding land and mountain stream.

Spacious Skies Hidden Creek - RV/Tent Sites

114 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Marion, NC

Escape to Spacious Skies Hidden Creek, your family’s ultimate Blue Ridge Mountain adventure! Nestled near charming Marion, North Carolina, our campground offers breathtaking mountain views, rustic sites, cozy cabins, and endless fun. Splash in the pool, whiz down the waterslide, fish in our stocked lake, or mine for gems. Explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge, then relax at our camp store, café, and laundry facilities. Spacious Skies Hidden Creek is where memories are made – discover your perfect camping getaway! Picture your ideal family vacation: cozy cabins nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, laughter echoing by the pool, and the thrill of reeling in a fish from our stocked lake. At Spacious Skies Hidden Creek, we make those dreams a reality. Whether you crave the rustic charm of a tent site or the comforts of a fully-equipped cabin, we’ve got your perfect home away from home, complete with breathtaking views. The kids will never utter the words “I’m bored!” From hurtling down our hillside waterslide to unearthing treasures at the gem mine, every day is an adventure. Explore the hiking trails of the Blue Ridge, then cool off in our sparkling pool complex. Spacious Skies Hidden Creek isn’t just a campground; it’s a destination where families create lifelong memories. Ready to turn your vacation dreams into reality? Our easy online booking system makes planning your getaway a breeze. Don’t miss out on the fun – reserve your spot at Spacious Skies Hidden Creek today and let the countdown to your unforgettable adventure begin!