The best glamping pod rentals in North Carolina

Crank up the fiddle-and-banjo tunes while driving through the High Country, where campsites and high-altitude views along the Blue Ridge Parkway are marked by mists and mountains. The parkway rolls up to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, not far from the gorgeous homelands of the Cherokee tribe. Just east in Asheville, the Ale Trail rivals the Biltmore as the top draw, though live music and a fantastic culinary scene are close behind. Drive east to the windswept barrier islands of the Outer Banks for coastal camping, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures that tear across sea and sky. Charlotte, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh anchor the booming Central Piedmont.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Crank up the fiddle-and-banjo tunes while driving through the High Country, where campsites and high-altitude views along the Blue Ridge Parkway are marked by mists and mountains. The parkway rolls up to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, not far from the gorgeous homelands of the Cherokee tribe. Just east in Asheville, the Ale Trail rivals the Biltmore as the top draw, though live music and a fantastic culinary scene are close behind. Drive east to the windswept barrier islands of the Outer Banks for coastal camping, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures that tear across sea and sky. Charlotte, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh anchor the booming Central Piedmont.

100% (191)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

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5 sites · Lodging · Bakersville, NC

Our pods (arched cabins) are tiny homes, well situated for both spectacular views as well as romantic privacy. Each home has an arched cabin style, cozy, yet well-appointed with a bedroom (queen bed), full bathroom, full kitchenette and living area with sofa and Roku TV. Homes are located close enough to enjoy a campfire with neighbors, but separated enough to enjoy that special romantic evening on your own large deck with spectacular views, or late at night enjoying the stars above. Each cabin has its very own fire pit. All cabins are outfitted with an outdoor hottub. Property is over 60 acres of onsite hiking trails, or find your special spot to sit and enjoy the view. We are just up the road from the Toe River. The famous Appalachian Trail is just minutes away, as are the Gem mines that made Mitchell County famous. Our property is historic and once a famous location for moonshine production, detailed in the book "Red Hill" available on Amazon. Or Google the "Bakersville Riots". Truly a place to enjoy hiking, or just relaxing on the beautiful large decks.

2. Asheville Area Luxury Glamping Deck

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1 site · Lodging · Fletcher, NC

Want to GLAMP without all the hassle? Asheville area’s one-of-a-kind, YEAR-ROUND-ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY and MODERN GLAMPING deck will do just that! This indoor–outdoor property has everything you need for the perfect glamping experience. MAXIUM of 6 guests inside the deck, but you can bring a tent and add extra guests for a one-time fee in the “Extras” section at checkout. Our unique open-air glamping deck features a fully functional kitchen with everything you need to cook comfortably. The kitchen includes hot water at the sink, an under-counter refrigerator and freezer, a dishwasher, induction cooktop, air fryer/toaster oven, and all your coffee and tea essentials. There’s also an outdoor grill area for your BBQ nights. An EV charger is included. The heated bathroom includes a large modern shower, bathroom vanity with a lighted mirror, toilet, and fresh towels. Sleeping arrangements include two separate lofts accessible by angled ladders. One loft has luxurious king bed and the other loft has two twin beds, all with premium linens. The spacious sectional on the main floor can also be used for sleeping, or you can unfold the comfortable queen floor bed. A smart TV is mounted inside the deck for your entertainment. Bringing friends or extra kiddos? No problem! There’s an outdoor tent pad area available for additional guests. Can I get a hot tub? Yes, you can! We’ve added a large private hot tub on the lower side of the deck, complete with a heater for those chilly fall and winter nights. We will be adding a polar plunge area by the branch for guests who want to cool off in style. Enjoy evenings by the outdoor fire pit, surrounded by nature and the soothing trickling sounds of the branch. Please note: The glamping deck sits on a shared driveway with neighbor traffic in the early morning and after school hours. While we love animals, this site is pet-free. Neighbors may occasionally walk their pets along the driveway in the afternoon or evening. We provide firewood, fresh-ground coffee and creamer, tea, cooking spices, all cookware, plates, bowls, and linens for your stay. Please bring your own tent if you’re hosting extra guests. We hope you’ll enjoy your luxury glamping experience and make lasting memories at our one-of-a-kind mountain retreat!

3. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

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61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mill Spring, NC

Come enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends in the rolling hills of Western North Carolina at Emberglow Outdoor Resort. We’ve assembled one-of-a-kind lodging options on 72 acres in a beautiful private valley, complete with spring-fed creeks and a night sky of a billion stars. We’re conveniently situated between Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, and Columbia. Get a closer look at the beautiful Emberglow Outdoor Resort property in our photo galleries and book now to experience it for yourself. An elevated camping experience nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Western NC. A CONVENIENT ESCAPE Located near Lake Lure, a less than 2-hour drive from Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, and Asheville, we offer our guests a convenient escape from the commotion of the weekly grind. UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS Pick your unique lodging experience or bring your own. Yurts, AirStreams, Treehouses, and more are available for rent or park your RV or pitch a tent in one of our beautiful campsites. OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS There are endless outdoor activities and attractions in nearby Lake Lure, or you can take advantage of our resort-quality amenities without ever leaving the property. At Emberglow, you can play outside on your own terms, limit your travel time, and disconnect from the daily hamster wheel. Our mission is to deliver to our guests an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of comfortable lodging options and unique amenities. Book your stay today! EXPLORE OUR Unique Lodging Choose from more than 20 memorable lodging options or set up your own in one of our fully-equipped RV or tent sites, all with access to our resort-quality amenities. • Vintage Campers • Treehouses • Tiny Homes • Yurts • Glamping Pods • Safari Tent • Primitive Tree Houses • RV Rental Trailers • RV Sites • Primitive Tent Sites ON-SITE AMENITIES A resort-quality pool awaits you to kick your feet up. Take on the family in sand volleyball or hit the hiking trails. Emberglow’s premium on-site amenities are just the start of your vacation possibilities. • Resort Quality Pool • Hiking/Biking Trails • Dog Park • Pedal Kart Rentals • Free Wifi • The Jump Pad • Sand Volleyball • Bicycle Rentals (Adult + Youth Sizes) • Sport Fields • Community Fire Pit • GaGa Ball Pit • Playground

4. The Vineyard Retreat

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1 site · Lodging · Jonesville, NC

A charming and unique experience on a Private Vineyard. Our Glamping Unit is shaped as a large Wine Barrel where adventurers and nature seekers can spend the night and marvel at the scenic views of the vineyard and surrounding mountains. A fully equipped interior with bed and bathroom, wifi, smart TV, coffee station and a Hot Tub this rare find is ideal for a romantic getaway or for couples looking to soak in beautiful sunsets.

5. Oak Grove Retreat

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9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tarboro, NC

Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use. A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing. Bring your hammock!

6. The Honey Hut

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3 sites · Lodging · Weaverville, NC

This property is located in a small community of houses about 10 minutes away from downtown Weaverville. Weaverville has bakeries, art galleries, grocery stores and several restaurants. Things you should bring: Pillow(s) and sleeping bag or full-sized sheet set + warm blankets appropriate for weather. Towels/washcloths. A bag of ice for the cooler. 1lb propane cylinder for stove. Food/drinks. Firewood for campfires. We provide a porta potty with hand sanitizer/toilet paper. A hot shower (a propane instant hot water heater) both located at the parking area. There are also plugs to recharge electrical devices and also lanterns to use located at the parking area. There are 2 spigots on the property with drinkable water. We provide the cookware, tableware, coffee cups, french press, salt/pepper, a kitchen towel, a fitted sheet, and recycling/trash can.

7. Hidden Spring

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1 site · Lodging · Mars Hill, NC

We are a small hobby farm nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Bring your sleeping bags and pillows and we will supply the rest. Our mountain spring will supply you with whatever water you need to shower and wash. Amenities include a toilet, shower, kitchen counter & sink, cooler, cooking utensils, plates/mugs, a grill, fire pit and an herb garden. With a little coaxing, our chickens may provide you with eggs for breakfast. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors with hiking, fishing, camping, and kayaking in the nearby rivers. Sorry, we cannot accommodate RVs. Fall is on it's way. We have winterized the site- there is a rug on the glamp platform and we will supply an electric heater in case the temperature dips!

8. Wonderlust Acres

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1 site · Lodging · Purlear, NC

The farmhouse served as Benjamin’s primary residence for six years, providing a never-ending source of inspiration and peace that most folks only experience a handful times in their life. In 2011, Benjamin moved to Boone and began leasing the farmhouse as a vacation rental.In 2018, he purchased the adjacent five acres (that he could not afford in 2004) and began to reclaim the land and creek from the scrubby, thorny growth that had settled on the dormant property.While the property transformed before his eyes, Benjamin felt as if he was discovering this place for the very first time. As he reveled in the excitement and pleasant exhaustion of working with the land, he became increasingly convinced that this special place was meant to be shared. Thus, the concept of Wonderlust Acres as a gathering place was born.More than a business, Wonderlust Acres is an expression of Benajmin’s appreciation for the spirit of the mountains and the endearing communities that they envelop. With the opening of Wonderlust Acres, Benjamin invites you to experience the enchantment for yourself.Learn more about this land:Located just 2 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mountains-to-Sea trail, and just 30 minutes from Boone/West Jefferson/Wilkesboro, and nestled in a private, open-meadowed valley overlooking a noisy trout stream and large ponds, the timber frame barn is a 3800 sqft wedding venue with the 2 changing rooms which have been converted to 2 glamping rooms. Both are locked off from the main barn structure to allow use when no events are scheduled, and have separate private keyed access, and include streaming TV, a 2-top burner, mini-fridge, and fold-down small full sofa bed for 2 (larger people may need to bring a blow-up mattress/pad for more room to spread out!). There is a men's and women's bathroom with 2 stalls joining the barn and accessed from the outside, along with 2 outdoor showers for longer stays. Propane, on-demand hot water is provided. The other structure that can be rented is the pond pavilion (an additional guest fee is charged over 4 people to accommodate) that features 2 full-size outdoor mattresses, a camping stove, chairs, and large firepit and firecircle. There are picnic tables also on site for use. This is truly luxury camping.

Camper favorites in North Carolina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Vineyard Retreat

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Jonesville, NC

A charming and unique experience on a Private Vineyard. Our Glamping Unit is shaped as a large Wine Barrel where adventurers and nature seekers can spend the night and marvel at the scenic views of the vineyard and surrounding mountains. A fully equipped interior with bed and bathroom, wifi, smart TV, coffee station and a Hot Tub this rare find is ideal for a romantic getaway or for couples looking to soak in beautiful sunsets.

Oak Grove Retreat

100%

(45)

9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tarboro, NC

Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use. A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing. Bring your hammock!

The Honey Hut

100%

(33)

3 sites · Lodging · Weaverville, NC

This property is located in a small community of houses about 10 minutes away from downtown Weaverville. Weaverville has bakeries, art galleries, grocery stores and several restaurants. Things you should bring: Pillow(s) and sleeping bag or full-sized sheet set + warm blankets appropriate for weather. Towels/washcloths. A bag of ice for the cooler. 1lb propane cylinder for stove. Food/drinks. Firewood for campfires. We provide a porta potty with hand sanitizer/toilet paper. A hot shower (a propane instant hot water heater) both located at the parking area. There are also plugs to recharge electrical devices and also lanterns to use located at the parking area. There are 2 spigots on the property with drinkable water. We provide the cookware, tableware, coffee cups, french press, salt/pepper, a kitchen towel, a fitted sheet, and recycling/trash can.

Hidden Spring

100%

(15)

1 site · Lodging · Mars Hill, NC

We are a small hobby farm nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Bring your sleeping bags and pillows and we will supply the rest. Our mountain spring will supply you with whatever water you need to shower and wash. Amenities include a toilet, shower, kitchen counter & sink, cooler, cooking utensils, plates/mugs, a grill, fire pit and an herb garden. With a little coaxing, our chickens may provide you with eggs for breakfast. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors with hiking, fishing, camping, and kayaking in the nearby rivers. Sorry, we cannot accommodate RVs. Fall is on it's way. We have winterized the site- there is a rug on the glamp platform and we will supply an electric heater in case the temperature dips!

Wonderlust Acres

100%

(3)

1 site · Lodging · Purlear, NC

The farmhouse served as Benjamin’s primary residence for six years, providing a never-ending source of inspiration and peace that most folks only experience a handful times in their life. In 2011, Benjamin moved to Boone and began leasing the farmhouse as a vacation rental.In 2018, he purchased the adjacent five acres (that he could not afford in 2004) and began to reclaim the land and creek from the scrubby, thorny growth that had settled on the dormant property.While the property transformed before his eyes, Benjamin felt as if he was discovering this place for the very first time. As he reveled in the excitement and pleasant exhaustion of working with the land, he became increasingly convinced that this special place was meant to be shared. Thus, the concept of Wonderlust Acres as a gathering place was born.More than a business, Wonderlust Acres is an expression of Benajmin’s appreciation for the spirit of the mountains and the endearing communities that they envelop. With the opening of Wonderlust Acres, Benjamin invites you to experience the enchantment for yourself.Learn more about this land:Located just 2 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mountains-to-Sea trail, and just 30 minutes from Boone/West Jefferson/Wilkesboro, and nestled in a private, open-meadowed valley overlooking a noisy trout stream and large ponds, the timber frame barn is a 3800 sqft wedding venue with the 2 changing rooms which have been converted to 2 glamping rooms. Both are locked off from the main barn structure to allow use when no events are scheduled, and have separate private keyed access, and include streaming TV, a 2-top burner, mini-fridge, and fold-down small full sofa bed for 2 (larger people may need to bring a blow-up mattress/pad for more room to spread out!). There is a men's and women's bathroom with 2 stalls joining the barn and accessed from the outside, along with 2 outdoor showers for longer stays. Propane, on-demand hot water is provided. The other structure that can be rented is the pond pavilion (an additional guest fee is charged over 4 people to accommodate) that features 2 full-size outdoor mattresses, a camping stove, chairs, and large firepit and firecircle. There are picnic tables also on site for use. This is truly luxury camping.

Stories from the community

A

Angela

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Honey Hut

Awesome little spot for a weekend getaway. Directions to the site were easy to follow. Super cozy and felt very private. Loved making coffee in the morning and playing fetch with our pup off the deck. Temperature inside the cabin stayed nice and comfortable. Really appreciated the packing recommendations as well. Small camping lantern was all the light we needed but definitely necessary after dark as the portapotty and outdoor shower are down the hill. Thank you again for creating a lovely accommodation!

M

Montana

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring

We absolutely loved our stay at Antoinette and Larry’s place! We could not have asked for a better spot. They provided unlimited firewood, fresh cookies, ice, butter, and even a space heater was ready for us where we slept. We cooked over the fire, but there’s also a grill with propane. I always bring my camp kitchen stuff with me, but there’s no need for it here. They have every you need, including a s’mores kit and a sink to wash all the dishes. Getting to know the chickens was also a highlight! We loved everything about it and it’s in our top spots for places to stay in this area now ❤️

J

JEREMY

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

My wife and I loved staying in the Green cabin. The fire pit and hot tub were the best. The cabin was great. The bed was comfortable. The shower had good hot water. The first night we made steaks over a campfire with baked potatoes from the air fryer. The second night we made hot dogs and roasted marshmallows on the campfire. It was a beautiful drive from Knoxville. It was about as close to perfect as you can get. Thank you for the firewood, and thank you for having us.

J

Jessica

3 weeks ago

4 nights at The Honey Hut

The Honey Hut is so very cozy and beautiful! The experience was the perfect combo of rustic and comfort, even a little bit luxe. It’s just gorgeous there, and having the outdoor kitchen right on the side of the hut is such a level-up to the camping experience!

Motorized screen raised. Looking out towards fire pit.

E

Esther

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Asheville Area Luxury Glamping Deck

This was exactly what we needed for our quick overnight getaway in the fall. It is absolutely beautiful and offers everything you need. We had 3 adults and 3 kids and all fit very comfortably. It was actually bigger than expected. The screen for the open air insulates surprisingly well and the heaters warmed up the room when we needed them. The mattresses (including floor bed) were all very comfortable. Hot tub with wall heater was perfect for the cool fall weather. Plenty of firewood for us adults that stayed up most the night. Everything was very clean. Nate responded quickly anytime we needed anything. We can’t wait to come back!

K

Kayli

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

We absolutely loved our stay here. All of the sites were filled during our stay, but everybody was quiet and respectful. Kevin was super helpful with anything we needed. Sitting in the hot tub at night while watching the stars was a highlight. The cabin was kept very clean, and it was stocked up with everything you’ll need. There was also tons of firewood for the fire pit. The land also had nature trails that you climb up to see a beautiful view. We’re really looking forward to coming here again!

M

Marykate

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Honey Hut

We stayed in the Honey Hut and it was the perfect, cozy spot to land after hiking. Near Weaverville, where we stopped for great coffee and then got on the Blue ridge parkway. A great little fall getaway. Thank you!

Tim

October 2025

3 nights at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

Our second visit was just as awesome as the first. Everything was provided and in great condition. The view from the green cabin was spectacular! One of our favorite properties and we look forward to returning.

L

Landon

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Asheville Area Luxury Glamping Deck

We stayed here over the weekend and can’t say enough great things about this property. The proximity to Asheville and surrounding areas is perfect. The cabin is one of the most fun places we’ve stayed in. The attention to details and extras is on point.

J

Jessica

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring

We love this place! And all the amenities they provided. The fresh bread and the eggs were delicious. Great place to stay, we definitely coming back!

Keri

October 2025

2 nights at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

Beautiful property, wonderful set up, great host! We loved our everything about our stay! Kevin was great and their property is amazing! Having a beautiful view from the hot tub was a cherry on top! We will be back!

Alexa

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

This place is so special. I have never had a more comfortable glamping experience. The hot tub and views are just perfection. They thought of everything by including wifi and a little doggy care package. The pancake mix was such a sweet touch and made for an awesome morning. Cannot recommend this place enough!

H

Heather

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Oak Grove Retreat

Oak Grove Retreat is truly a special place!!! I feel a profound sense of happiness and tranquility when I am there. The hosts consistently provide friendly service and create a welcoming atmosphere. The grounds are always well maintained, featuring beautiful moss covered trails, seasonal gardens and a lush forest. I have also enjoyed participating in several events there over the last few years and look forward to my next visit.

D

Dean

September 2025

1 night at Hidden Spring

Antoinette and Larry have put a lot of thought and effort into making their guests comfortable and it shows. A loaf of bread still warm from the oven, fresh baked cookies, butter and eggs were waiting in the kitchen area, the fire pit was prepared and the property is great! The location is minutes from all the creature comforts you may want yet you feel hours away at the peaceful farm. You won’t be sorry you booked!

Joshua

September 2025

With pets

3 nights at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

We had such a a wonderful time at Candee Mountain. Gorgeous views. Fantastic space with all the amenities. Kevin was a great host. Very welcoming and a great communicater. Can't wait to return.

Tim

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

The accommodations, scenery, cleanliness, host friendliness, ALL OF IT, was phenomenal! Kevin and his family keep such great care to the grounds and everything you need. Everything is there... bathroom items you never thought you needed, kitchen is fully stocked, extra blankets and pillows, plenty of firewood, hot tub cleaned and hot. I mean everything. Now the grounds... all the cabins are angled in a way that ensures privacy even in the middle units. There is no noise and the night sky is clear and dark. We saw the milky way! We loved our time so much we are headed back for our anniversary in October.

Another lovely place to sit and take in the view

Angelique

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Oak Grove Retreat

There's so much to do here! From the garden, to the nature walk, to the hammocks, to the fire pits, to the chakra dance workshops and drum circles, there are seemingly limitless ways to destress and reconnect at the Oak Grove Retreat. I can't wait to come back!

j

julissa

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

I had the best experience staying here with my dog! The cabin was spotless, cozy, and perfectly tucked away in the woods with beautiful mountain views. The hot tub was the perfect way to relax in the evenings, and the deck was a great spot to enjoy morning coffee while my pup lounged nearby. Kevin was an amazing host—super welcoming, communicative, and made sure everything about our stay was comfortable. I felt right at home and completely taken care of. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with your dog where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy nature, this is the perfect spot. I’ll definitely be back!

M

Molly

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring

The views are beautiful, it's private and comes with SO many amenities that you don't expect with "camping".... we would stay here again for sure!! They provide all of the extra special touches that make this place super enjoyable. Great for star gazing also!

M

Marie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

The little cabin was so cute and having the fire pit and hot tub was lovely. Would definitely return.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best glamping pods in North Carolina guide

Where to go

High Country & the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway passes overlooks, waterfalls, and campgrounds in the rugged High Country of western North Carolina as it swoops south from Virginia. Mount Mitchell State Park, Linville Gorge, and Grandfather Mountain are Instagram-pretty while hiking and mountain biking trails beg to be explored.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park & Cherokee

Stories about Cherokee leaders and 19th-century mountain families add historic context to the mountain-and-forest views in the deep-green Smokies. Feeling social? Hit the welcoming Nantahala Outdoor Center for all-sorts of wild adventures, from rafting to ziplining. The Appalachian Trail runs along the North Carolina and Tennessee border in the national park then veers south through Nantahala National Forest.

Asheville & the Foothills

An easy detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is a mountain town that’s going places. The craft beer situation is out of control—more than 30 breweries!—while innovative chefs keep the foodie scene abuzz. Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, and gorgeous waterfalls are outdoor highlights in the foothills. Mountain bikers, get your fix in Pisgah National Forest.

North Carolina Coast

Wind, water, and sunny skies set a mood for fun along the North Carolina Coast. For the best all-around beach scene head to the Outer Banks, a 100-mile stretch of rugged barrier islands marked by dunes, fishing piers, and wild horses. Try hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge, windsurfing off Hatteras Island, and parasailing and paddling in Corolla and Duck. For close-to-the-beach tent camping, drive south to Cape Hatteras National Seashore or ferry over to Ocracoke Island.