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Camping with Horseback riding

The best camping in North Carolina with horseback riding

Name: North Carolina
Address: North Carolina
Rating: 4.868

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.

97% (8.2K) • 2,042 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in North Carolina

Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

1. Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

99%

(1192)

Waynesville, NC · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. No porta potties are provided b/tw Dec 15 and March 15 Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.

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Appalachian Pond Campground

2. Appalachian Pond Campground

97%

(194)

Waynesville, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!

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Electrical hookup

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Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

3. Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

98%

(290)

Spruce Pine, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina! At approximately 3,455 feet elevation we enjoy mountain breezes all summer PLEASE DO NOT ‘photo book’! We ask guests to please read through the details BEFORE booking a site. For example: not all tent sites are park at sites. Some of our more secluded sites in the woods are far from bathrooms etc. Sites near the winery/bathrooms are not secluded and you can see/hear ‘people’. As of Jan 2025 we change to an age 13+ campground. No one under the age of thirteen years old is permitted to camp overnight. Younger children will still be permitted to visit the winery next door to the campground during open hours but must have an adult (18 years plus) with them at ALL times! Due to an incident that could have ended in tragedy we have a zero tolerance policy of unsupervised children. You will be asked to leave if your young child is unattended by an adult. During the summer months we often have free range chicken eggs and organic produce and herbs available for our campers. We are next to our own winery/cidery that features home brew wines and beer. We also offer sodas. Firewood is for sale. You may bring your own firewood as long as it’s not from out of state. We have a few primitive sites in our woods for those who love more seclusion and places to hang hammocks. We offer Hiking/jogging trails at the campground with more trails on the nearby blue ridge parkway. We are just a 5 minute drive to downtown Little Switzerland. We are also only a 5 minutes drive to the famous Diamondback scenic mountain road. Approximately 20 minutes drive to Crabtree Falls on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our cantina next door at 539 blue ridge gem mine road is open for the season and serving home brew beers and small batch ciders for ages 21 and older. Photo ID required. Sodas available for purchase as well. We now have a well lit covered porch area and club house with free WiFi and available 24 hours to our campers. Note: absolutely no outside alcohol or underage alcohol consumption permitted on premises. Anyone not in compliance with North Carolina state laws and federal laws will be evicted from campgrounds without refunds. If the campgrounds happen to be under a burn ban please understand that we can’t and will not break the law for you! All campers must obey the burn ban if in effect or face possible penalties under state law! This is for your own safety as well. Anything sold by us may be legally consumed at your campsite and is covered under our winery ABC permit. Camp host can’t go to bed until all campers are checked in so no late night arrivals please! Thank you for your understanding. Adult horseback trail rides are available at nearby Springmaid Mountain Retreat. Maps provided to Springmaid Mountain. All minors must have ADULT supervision at all times at the winery next door (older siblings do not qualify as adult supervision). If we are babysitting your children to keep them out of danger or from damaging our property you’ll be asked to leave. We want everyone to be safe. Up to 2 dogs are allowed per campsite. Dogs Must remain on leash at all times and have proof of up to date rabies vaccination. We have chickens and horses on our mini farm so please keep dogs under control at all times. Also, please do not feed our chickens, horses or any of the wildlife on our property. It is the responsibility of our campers to check the weather conditions, noting any burn bans for the area or rain etc, looking at all the rules and property details, before booking is the campers responsibility. Please do not blame the host! HipCamp now offers rainy day insurance Watch for our special events like ghost story campfire tales/walk with local guest authors, mountain yoga, herbal remedies classes, trail treasure hunts with prizes, mushroom identification classes etc. Additional parking is available for added cars in the guest parking lot area if campers have no more room at their campsite for visitors or any extra cars. We have a hot/cold shower and modern style flush toilets available in large cargo container. We also now have free Starlink WiFi in the Cantina/clubhouse area and some of the closer tent sites. Our clubhouse stays open for campers 24/7 with a microwave available, games, television and comfortable seating areas. Note: The quarter mile of gravel drive is steep but I drive my two wheel drive car up and down it every day. However, if you have a vehicle that chugs and struggles up hills (older RV etc) you may find it a challenge. We are working on getting that section paved to help out the older RVs and buses. Note: The gray building and pond area is NOT our property. Do not wander around our neighbors pond /barn area. Thank you! All campers are expected to read and follow the HipCamp guidelines. This is not just a ‘business’, it is also a family home that we are graciously sharing with you for a small fee so we expect campers to respectful of our land, our neighbors and your fellow campers. Anyone who can’t show integrity, maturity and be responsible and respectful of this will be asked to leave and/or permanently banned from both the winery and our campgrounds. No fighting! This includes couples fighting. Settle it 'off property'. We are pretty mellow, yet take bad behavior and disrespect for others very seriously. Unsupervised children has been a huge problem lately and we simply won’t tolerate very young children wandering the woods, running across other folks campsites, deliberately damaging our property etc. It is up to the parents to fully supervise their children and keep them safe! Caught without a last minute hotel room and rather not park your family in Walmart lot? We offer car camping in our parking lot for $15.00 a night. You’ll have access to bathrooms and a hot shower! We also have tents, sleeping bags and camping mats for rent. Summer of 2025 will be our third year open and there have been many wonderful improvements! ❤️ We made it through Hurricane Helene with minimal damage and with the help of some kind volunteers we have some great updates!

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Nantahala National Forest

4. Nantahala National Forest

94%

(74)

National forest in North Carolina · 438 sites

Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.

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Pisgah National Forest

5. Pisgah National Forest

96%

(159)

National forest in North Carolina · 251 sites

One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.

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Candy Mountain Goat Farm

6. Candy Mountain Goat Farm

96%

(236)

Murphy, NC · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Play with our friendly goats - we have 10 babies (kids) ready to be held! Welcome to our six-acre, solar-powered goat farm — a quiet slice of mountain paradise that feels worlds away from the noise, yet sits minutes from adventure in the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains. Summer is coming to an end and fall is rapidly approaching. Our temperatures range in the 80s during the daytime and cool 60s at night. While we have seven sites available, we close it after a maximum of four are booked on a given day. 🐐 The Farm Experience * Feed and play with our friendly goats * Relax by the grass-covered brook * Gather around our large communal fire pit * Walk our loop and spring trails * Enjoy our petting area and farm activities * Small zipline for extra fun * Saturday outdoor movies (available upon request) This is peaceful, unplugged mountain living — with just enough amenities to stay comfortable. 🏕 Campsites & RV Pads * Two custom-built RV pads * 15-amp and 30-amp service * Water hookups included * Several grass tent sites * Picnic tables, grills, and personal fire pits * Overlooking a small brook * Forest-shaded, park-like setting Whether you’re traveling by RV, van, or tent, each site offers privacy and natural beauty. 💻 High-Speed Internet (Yes, Really) We provide Starlink Business internet across the entire property. * 300–500 Mbps download * 20–30 Mbps upload * Low latency * Reliable coverage throughout the farm Perfect for remote workers, van lifers, or anyone who wants to answer emails from the top of a mountain. 🏞 Nearby Adventure Within a short drive you’ll find: * Hiking trails & waterfalls * Lakes & swimming holes * Tubing & whitewater rafting * Boating & fishing * Mountain towns & seasonal festivals * Adventure when you want it. Tranquility when you don’t.

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Pisgah Riverbend

7. Pisgah Riverbend

97%

(157)

Brevard, NC · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is situated on 50 acres, surrounded by private property with views of the nearby Pisgah National Forest and a 10 minute drive to DuPont State Forest. Campsites are adjacent to the French Broad River. Excellent fishing and boating. It is heavily populated by deer and other wildlife. For this reason, dogs must be kept on a leash. Please note that due to the campground being in low-lying land, the drive in is subject to being slick and muddy, 4WD is required. Message us with any questions. Due to the property proximity to the river and situated in floodway, the sites are subject to flooding during heavy rain events. Voluntary and/or mandatory evacuation may be necessary during any reservation due to high waters or forecast for high water events. If evacuation is necessary, unused portions of reservation will be refunded. Campers are advised to be self-sufficient with water and shower facilities. We do provide a port a potty and firewood is for sale on site (Venmo, PayPal or cash). IF YOU ARE CAMPING WITH A RV OR TRAILER, PLEASE CONTACT US TO DISCUSS A SITE. All sites can accommodate smaller RV camper units. However, larger RV's have limited site availability. Campsites are situated along the river edge. Embankments are steep and near deep water. Although not prohibited, constant supervision for children is a must to avoid serious injury due to natural hazards. If you are floating in from the French Broad River the recommended take out is located at 35.24007° N, -82.69972° W. See images in our photos for the posted Riverbend sign for where to take out.

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Conleys Creek Campground

8. Conleys Creek Campground

96%

(413)

Whittier, NC · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our little slice of creekside heaven! Four years ago, we took a run-down manufactured home park and started turning it into something special — a peaceful, down-to-earth spot for campers to relax, explore, and feel right at home. It's been a total labor of love, and now we’re excited to share it with folks who appreciate the beauty of nature, good company, and a few chickens wandering by. At night, things slow down — our campground is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for stargazing. We’ve got: 3 creekside RV sites with water + electric hookups 1 creekside RV site with full hookups (water, electric, and septic) 4 first-come, first-served creekside tent spots A 38' luxury RV available to rent for a comfy glamping stay All sites are right along Conleys Creek, which is stocked with trout and perfect for fishing or cooling off in the summer. Every spot includes a picnic table and fire pit — and tent sites come with a fire pit that includes a cooking grate for easy campfire meals. Our land is totally pesticide-free and full of life — from colorful flower gardens to veggies, herbs, fruit trees, and our famous 14 free-range chickens (a.k.a. The Dixie Chicks). Guests love feeding them, petting them, and collecting fresh eggs. You’ll also find: A clean, private bathhouse A game room with ping pong + darts Outdoor yard games Fast, reliable Wi-Fi Firewood, eggs, and ice for sale A dump station for RVs We’re in a super convenient spot — nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dillsboro, Sylva, and tons of hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater adventures. We’re open year-round, but if you come during leaf peeping season, you’re in for a real treat — the colors are absolutely magical. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome too — we get it, they’re family! This is our home, our lifestyle, and our dream. We’d love to have you come enjoy it with us.

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Stoney Creek Oasis Campground

9. Stoney Creek Oasis Campground

90%

(240)

Candler, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: We have 20 beautiful campsites, including tent,and rv sites, along Stoney Fork Creek .We are located in Candler, NC, 20 minutes from downtown Asheville. 5 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway and within 2 miles to national forests. 10 minutes from Mt. Pisgah and 9 waterfalls within 10 miles. We offer off grid primitive campsites with a few touches of modernism, with and Wi-Fi. The sites are located adjacent from the greenhouses in a large grassy field, next to the creek, and behind the barn.

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Uwharrie National Forest

10. Uwharrie National Forest

93%

(34)

National forest in North Carolina · 141 sites

Off-roading with full-size vehicles, hunting, fishing and equestrian are all in this amazing forest!

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Hanging Rock State Park

11. Hanging Rock State Park

100%

(19)

State park in North Carolina · 86 sites

See waterfalls, heavily wooded trails, and towering peaks in this state park.

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Croatan National Forest

12. Croatan National Forest

83%

(12)

National forest in North Carolina · 99 sites

Ever wanted to see a carnivorous Venus flytrap up close and in action? Here's your big chance.

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Sumter National Forest

13. Sumter National Forest

88%

(13)

National forest in South Carolina · 259 sites

Explore the vast South Carolina wilderness on foot, by bike, or by boat

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Showers

DuPont Bike Retreat

14. DuPont Bike Retreat

98%

(362)

Brevard, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

DuPont Bike Retreat is located 1/4 mile from the Fawn Lake Access area into DuPont State Forest. The DBR is 37 acres and has a pond with a dock and numerous camping sites available. The property used to hold Glass Feather Studio, which was a glass art studio and is now Glass Feather Lodge. The mountain view from the indoor porch is amazing and there are several places to relax and enjoy this view. There is an outdoor shower and bike wash station behind the lodge and two indoor bathrooms (one with shower) off the porch. The lower Pond Area of the property has a port-a-john near the pond. Starter bundles of firewood are included, and additional can usually be purchased on-site. Come enjoy the forest straight from your campsite!

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NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

15. NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

99%

(143)

Jefferson, NC · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you are looking for a secluded campsite deep in the woods, you may want to keep looking. But if you want the ease and peace of a campsite RIGHT ON THE NEW RIVER with everything just steps from your tent, then come out and claim your site! Redemption: To repair or restore. To make good. This campground represents redemption and healing in so many ways. Our hope is that you will find much peace, joy, and adventure here and we promise to do our best to make it everything you expected and more! Numerous large manicured campsites in an open space DIRECTLY ON THE NEW RIVER where adventures abound! Up to 4 guests and 2 tents per site. Newly constructed tiny home provides GLAMPING at its finest! The Liberty cabin shares a space with a few tent sites along the river. With the addition of Liberty, I have limited the number of campers to 4. (Exceptions may be made for holiday weekends). There is plenty of space for everyone and the cabin sits above the tent sites for amazing views and privacy. While HWY 16 can be a bit noisy during busy times, step into the campsites and let the peaceful noise-canceling river serenity whisk you away. Forest views across the river with endless fireflies and stars that light up the night! Zaloo's Canoes, Kayak, and Tubes is within eyesight and will set you up with an amazing float or paddle down river. Plentiful small mouth bass and trout fishing just steps from your site. Outhouse w/washing station. Fire pits at each site as well as a large communal fire pit and picnic tables. Downtown West Jefferson is just 15 minutes away with local breweries, quaint restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, shopping, music, art, and a wonderful farmer's market from May - October. The quaint little town of Lansing, NC is quickly becoming a favorite stop of mine. Check out the Old Orchard Creek General Store, Pie on the Mountain Pizza, the Old Orchard Creek Blueberry Farm, and Molly Chomper for a perfect day in Ashe County. The New River State Park is an easy walk, float, paddle or drive away. This park is absolutely GORGEOUS and impeccably maintained, including hiking trails, public facilities, showers, boat launch and pick up, etc. Just a short drive to multiple Blue Ridge Parkway entry points for ease of access to Boone, Appalachian State University, Blowing Rock, Grandfather Mountain, Banner Elk, and the Linville Gorge. Mount Jefferson and Grayson Highlands are also just a short drive away for unlimited hiking and incredible mountain views. My personal favorite is hiking with the wild ponies at Grayson Highlands! We have Firewood available for a nominal fee. Just let us know and we will make arrangements to have it ready for you upon arrival. Please respect quiet hours between 10 PM and 8 AM each evening.

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Cherokee Waterfall Campground

16. Cherokee Waterfall Campground

98%

(243)

Cherokee, NC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Please read the entire listing because I have updated this page. The booking is for 2 people, any guest after the initial 2 or pet will be $10 per night. Add them as extra guests Pull down a paved road and get out of your car and sit down at a picnic table in front of a private waterfall! This site has a pull through, full hookup spot with 30amp for campers but tents are always welcome or a combination of the two. I've had a 33' camper, popup camper and 6 tents at this campsite all at the same time so there plenty of room for your family and friends! We're 2.5 miles from the Cherokee Casino and 3.5 miles from down town Cherokee If you're tired of crowded campgrounds then you'll love the privacy this campground offers. This is now a two site campground with each site being around 100' away from the other site with trees and vegetation growing in between, you more or less cant see on site from the other from May until November. There is a orange cone that marks the border of the two sites. One set of campers will not be allowed on the other campers campsite, if this happens you will be evicted with no refund. Check in is at 2pm and check out is at 12pm. No shooting firearms, (although you may hear people shooting firearms because you will be camping in the mountains) but your more than welcome to bring your firearms. Its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.   No fireworks. No making trails or collecting firewood (This is not because I want to sell you firewood, its because I want to have the property remain as pristine as possible) Do not cut down trees alive or dead  If you move picnic tables please move them back Dogs are permitted but message me first to see if your do will be a good fit. There is a small Church around 200 yards from the campground. They hold services every Wednesday and Sunday. They generally start around 5pm and it lasts around a hour. If your into that they would love to have you come down. The EBCI opened a dispensary around 3 miles from the campground. It will open to all adults over 21 starting September 7th 2024. Message me with any questions you have

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Babbling Brook Campground

17. Babbling Brook Campground

99%

(394)

Moravian Falls, NC · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

"Whose woods these are, I think I know".... (Robert Frost) As the seasons roll along, even after 23 years, as I walk through my woods, I often think of Frost's poem. The trees bright with autumn colors, winter snow making all things pure, the dogwoods coming into blossom. Eye candy. Babbling Brook Campground was started when we were in a financial famine. I wasn't sure I was the gal for hosting. It turns out, hosting is a perfect fit for me, and for our land. We started with the treehouse in April of 2018, and it continues to grow into something better each year. We have four sites, Babbling Brook Treehouse, Happy Hillside Camping, The Bird's Nest, and Cozy Cottage Farm Stay. The Cozy Cottage is up at our farm, but you have access to the camp and creek below. Up at the farm, you can be with the livestock. There is no electricity or running water, but that is part of the charm. Come, leave the world behind, have the tree frogs sing you to sleep as the babbling brook flows along the edge of the property.

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Smoky Mountain Meadows

18. Smoky Mountain Meadows

96%

(197)

Bryson City, NC · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(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! 2025 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 IN: 4 PM. CHECK OUT: 11 AM. 3. QUIET TIME. 10 PM - 8 AM 4. CHECK OUT PROCEDURES. Camp must be broken down by 11 AM on departure day. If you stay past time you could be charged for an additional day. Extension possible with pre-approval. 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 be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pets and do NOT leave them in the campground unattended. 9. Please be respectful of other campers and the property. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate cancellation of your stay and you will be asked to leave the park. 10. We reserve the right to refuse service or ask guests to leave the park at any time and for any reason.

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Waterfall camping close to CLT

19. Waterfall camping close to CLT

99%

(419)

Bessemer City, NC · 1 site · Tent, RV

Working on Facebook, Instagram, and a website. Search for: Old Mill Falls My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked and you still want to camp, look him up. He is better suited for small groups and has more privacy. Easy drive right to the campsite There is plenty of soft sand to set up one tent or ten tents; large groups are welcome for an extra fee. A Porta-Potty is available at the campsite. Swimming is usually possible at the base of the falls; however, the weather can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add that this is not completely private. The camp is visible from a shared driveway, and my residence is up a hill that overlooks the area. Also, I do not own the land on the other side of the stream. Occasionally, the owners of that land will also end a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Close to the U.S. National Whitewater Center (mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking), Kings Mountain National Military Park (Horseback riding and history), Crowders Mountain (Hiking), 3 miles off of I-85 and US-321 for people passing through.

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The Human Spirit

20. The Human Spirit

100%

(230)

Hays, NC · 1 site · Tent, RV

True off-grid, primitive camping in untouched nature with almost 100 acres all to yourself! The entire property is secluded with an amazing view of Stone Mountain. - Perfect for 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, side by sides. - Firepit provided. Firewood bundles and starter bundles are available for purchase. - You can pull right up to the campsite. - Higher clearance vehicle is recommended (truck, SUV, or crossover), however, 4-wheel drive is unnecessary. Please know the 2-mile road up to the campsite is bumpy and narrow. ~70 minutes from Charlotte ~20 minutes from Wilkesboro ~50 minutes from Boone ~50 minutes from the Winston-Salem area ~30 minutes off I-77 ~30 minutes from Stone Mountain public entrance ~30 minutes from Warrior Creek trails ~10 minutes from Doughton Park trailhead Unplug, recharge, and immerse yourself in untouched nature! A couple of highly recommended nearby restaurant options: (both ~20 minutes from campsite) Roaring River Vineyards - great outdoor atmosphere right on the banks of the Roaring River, pet friendly, entertainment, wine, and beer tasting 493 Brewer Mill Rd, Traphill, NC   

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Spencer

3 days ago

Tent

4 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

Very friendly and helpful host. Such a beautiful and well kept site! Definitely a 10 out 10 must stay again!

One touch of nature makes the whole world kin. -William Shakespeare

Jessie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Human Spirit

Awesome remote camping spot with a great view! Tent camped with my dogs and had a great time. Lots of great hiking nearby too! The driveway up is a bit steep, but I did it in an AWD SUV no problem (in dry conditions).

Amber

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Great site and wonderful host. We had a great time. Everything you need is there.

Marissa

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

Where do I begin?! Hospitality A++++ Property A++++ Camp site A++++ Friendliness A++++ Peace A +++++ Beauty A ++++ We WILL be back and we WILL be camping here regularly! Thank you Catherine! You are the best!

We have 4 creek side RV spots available for guests. In addition, we also rent out our 38' luxury RV for guests to enjoy onsite. Best to contact us directly at Hidden Creek Retreat, in Whittier NC for more details about our RV.

BRIAN

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

1 night at Conleys Creek Campground

Great location, right between Bryson City and Cherokee. We had a quiet spot right on the creek. The host was nice and informative.

Walk across our bridge for additional benches, fire pits, outdoor lawn games and hammocks for relaxing.

Owen

2 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Conleys Creek Campground

This is such a great campsite! Very easy to find, easy to get my trailer parked, and well maintained property. The bathroom was private and had plenty of room. Each RV site had an electrical hook up and water. It was great falling asleep to the sound of the creek and I enjoyed seeing the chickens roam the property. Anne is super kind and very responsive! Highly recommend staying here and will definitely be here again. This place is also super close to the Smokies Natl Park and about 20min from NOC for all the kayakers and rafters out there :)

Dana

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

We just love it here and are a repeat visitor. Everything is clean and the location is perfect. Access to the river at the campsite made for a wonderful fall canoe trip and then dinner in West Jefferson was quick and easy too!

Jason

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

Beautiful space and very responsive owner, we will be back!

Dana

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

Really amazing spot! Easy to get to, many places to pitch a tent, awesome little ecosystem to explore, and great touches to make for smooth camping. We’ve already booked our next weekend!

Ashley

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The swimming hole

Large campsite on the creek. Steve provided firewood (at a cost), but it was nice to not have to stop for firewood. We swam and caught more than 15 fish! Steve was also prompt with any questions or help we needed. Will def return and recommend.

Stan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to DuPont Bike Retreat

Great campsite and location. The lodge has all the amenities you need like bathroom and showers, small fridge, washer drier, coffee maker, microwave, hot tub, firepit, and views. We camped down by the pond which is quite a walk from the lodge. That would be the only thing to consider.

Julie

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Pisgah Riverbend

This was a great find. The sites are well-maintained, spacious, tree-lined, and water-front. We’d definitely stay here again..

The Knoll offers loads of space and views of the river and pastures. Easy in and out too!

Conor

2 weeks ago

15 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

Amazing getaway with beautiful serene surroundings. Easy river access and amazing fresh pork and eggs from the farm for sale. Responsive and kind host :)

Angela

2 weeks ago

12 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

We had a jeep trailhawk, hauling a 6x12 trailer. We had no issues getting to #8 campsite. The views were amazing. There is a campsite past this spot, where other campers have to ride by and you can see from this spot. Otherwise private away from most campers. We loved our stay and had the best view of the Harvest Full Moon.

Emily

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

Such an AMAZING place ! Everything we could have hoped for. Camping by the river was magical, being able to walk around and visit with all of the animals was therapeutic, viewing the full harvest moon rise over the ridge was breathtaking. Catherine and Rick, thank you for sharing your special spot.

Kayla

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Human Spirit

I love this campsites! Our 3rd time coming and it’s always great!

Liam

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Live Oaks Farm

Great hospitality on the farm, very cute farm animals as well.

Dustin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Great spot! A hidden oasis only minutes from the highway.

Johanna

3 weeks ago

21 ft Class B

6 nights at Live Oaks Farm

Our visit to Holly Ridge was to see family that lived nearby. Patrick was very accommodating for all our needs. Our campsite was very quiet and set right beside a pond. A very large pick your own flower garden behind us. One of the best places we have stayed. Very enjoyable!

John

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Waterfall camping close to CLT

We had an amazing stay. The waterfall was absolutely the highlight—being able to relax, cook, sit by the fire, and fall asleep surrounded by the sound of running water made the whole trip feel like a real getaway. The campsite was spacious enough for our large tent, awning, cooking setup, and SUV while still feeling private and tucked away in nature. What really stood out was Scott as a host. Storms in weren't really in the forecast, but after seeing lightning strike he proactively reached out to us about the creek and water levels to make sure we were aware and safe. That kind of communication and concern for his guests was greatly appreciated, especially since we did end up getting a pretty serious thunderstorm during our stay. Between the waterfall, privacy, beautiful surroundings, plenty of space, and a host who genuinely looks out for his guests, this was exactly the camping experience we wanted. We made some great memories here and would absolutely come back. Highly recommended!

North Carolina camping 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.