The best vintage trailer 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.

98% (514)

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.

98% (514)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

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

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’. The ‘wildlife’ sites require parking in guest parking and a 5 minute walk. 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. Again, PLEASE read through all the descriptions of each particular site to make certain you choose the right fit for your camping needs. We offer Hiking/jogging trails at the campground with more trails on the nearby blue ridge parkway. We are just around the corner from the famous Emerald Village Mines and only 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). With farm animals and 140 acres of woods nearby and three deep ponds in those woods it can be a dangerous situation for young, unsupervised children. 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. Please be respectful of our neighbors and the family that lives there. 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!

2. The Waldhaus Resort

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5 sites · Lodging · Barnardsville, NC

Waldhaus Resort is a special place surrounded by the Pisgah National Forrest. Pure nature close to a thriving metropolitan area. We offer the Sawmill and the Summit!I have been an engineer, corporate executive and world traveler all my life. Born and raised in Switzerland I speak German, French, English and a little Spanish. My passion is the outdoors, hunting, fishing and cooking . My other calling is to entertain people which share the same passions. That’s why I created the Waldhaus resort.During the past years, the Sawmill has become my favorite place to spend quality time in what I call "Cabin Living" which I love so much. Nearly every day there is a small challenge, nothing comes easy, but all the coziness and comfort is there. The water is supplied by a spring above the mill. Electricity is generated by solar technology and a generator. All refrigeration and cooking appliances are propane; and so is the basic heat (propane again) - and a very old Jotul wood stove will do the rest. I sleep a lot on the day bed in the living room so the Sawmill can be comfortably rented for up to 4 guests. The outhouse is a thing of the past, just recently I installed a compositing toilet besides the bedroom.We also offer The Summit which is a high elevation, 2-story cabin surrounded by national forest which has evolved into an off-grid living and play space located at nearly 3300 feet elevation on a 1/2 acre flat with an incredible view. There are very private old forest service trails leading directly into the Pisgah National Forest.

3. Mystic Meadow Farm Glamping.

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2 sites · Lodging · Madison, NC

My farm had been untouched for years and only used as hay farming. It is rolling hills known by the locals as "Butterfly Hill" Which the farm is home to many species of butterflies in the summer. I know the area was inhabited by native Americans many decades ago. I have found a few broken arrow heads over the years. The farm is beautiful and quiet. I have a beautiful hiking trail around the property for you to take your fur babies on. The cabin is right on a beautiful stream too. There are several state parks nearby and river tubing within 10 -30 minutes. Hot showers and potable water just a few feet away.

4. Dolly The Retro Camper

1 site · Lodging · Arden, NC

Dolly is a 1968 retro camper trailer that has been restored to meet the needs of our visiting guests. Located close to Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard (home to waterfalls and mountain bike trails), the Asheville airport, Biltmore Estate and all the best breweries, restaurants and shops that WNC has to offer!

5. 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

6. Gorgeous Stays Glampground

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14 sites · Tents, Lodging · Bryson City, NC

Gorgeous Stays! WHERE THE STAY IS PART OF YOUR ADVENTURE! All you need to bring are clothes & a toothbrush & a smile! Check out all the amenities that are available when you plan a vacation with Gorgeous Stays! A Five-star camp bathhouse with vessel sinks, hot showers, and toilets, is located on the lower level of our rustic modern Lodge. There's a fun-size campground store with snacks, small heatable meals, personal essentials, firewood, and beverages. Plus -- six community fire pits, two food pavilions with propane grills, outdoor games, and much, much more! All of our units come equipped with linens, towels, a K-cup coffeemaker, a microwave, a mini-fridge, a tiny sink, AC/Heat or fans/heater, comfy gel memory foam mattresses, and an RV toilet for nighttime convenience! Feel free to contact us if you have questions about anything that we offer! Gorgeous Stays wants your Stay to be memorable, relaxing and fun! There are so many things for you to do near us in Western North Carolina! Memorable experiences abound when you share nature with your family and friends. Gorgeous Stays Glamping Campground is located within 2 miles of 4 rafting companies, 2 zipline areas, and a ropes Adventure Park. For more adventure in the area near us, there's the Appalachian Trail, the Little Tennessee River, Fontana Lake, and the Nantahala River (the best fly-fishing river in the Southeast). From quaint towns like Bryson City (home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad), Sylva, and Dillsboro, to Harrah's Casino in Cherokee--You can check out even more of the possibilities below! Click on the Learn More buttons below to easily access the websites of some of our favorite experiences!

7. Rock Cottage Farm

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1 site · Lodging · Canton, NC

Enjoy the sounds of the rolling mountain farm when you stay in our vintage 1975 camper. It’s a one-of-a-kind, all inclusive camping destination. Just bring your clothes and food and relax in our “everything is ready for you” camper nestled in the Smoky Mountains of WNC. Our mini-farm sits on 4.5 acre farm with the original rock house built in 1950 at the end of the road. We have loved where we live for 6 yrs and decided it was time to share our beautiful piece of God’s creation with others. In growing season, we have a garden and berry bushes, apple trees, grapes all growing on our property. We have a family playground and tree house. If looking for a country getaway near good access to activities, we are the place! We are 20-30 min to 3 entrances of the Blue Ridge Parkway and trails. We are 10 min from Chestnut Mnt. Park, with biking trails. 8 min to local river tubing. We are 4 min from a grocery store. 8 min to a small downtown with local stores and restaurants.

8. Vintage Camper 3 mi to Asheville

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1 site · Lodging · Asheville, NC

Great find! Cozy camper tucked in a quiet Cove less than three miles from the heart of Asheville. This bright and sunny vintage camper has been totally redone. It's clean, neat, and well-appointed. Enjoy a private outdoor shower in the bamboo grove, lounge on the outdoor couch, or grill out on the deck. In the evening, listen to the calls of nature around the fire and then cozy into the luxurious, full size, queen bed. Dragonfly has everything, A/C, central heat, a full kitchen, microwave, sink, hot water, flush toilet, indoor and outdoor showers, refrigerator, freezer, propane grill, smart TV, high-speed wifi, even an electric guitar! This camper is in a quiet, rural setting in a special cove. It is small and cozy.

9. Vintage Camper @ Hanging Rock

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1 site · Lodging · Danbury, NC

Campers will experience the full beauty of nature while enjoying comforting amenities in a cozy yet spacious setting. You won’t miss traditional tent camping with a fully equipped kitchen that includes a microwave, French press, dishes, and refrigerator. Sleeping is easy with both a single and a double bed. We’re just five minutes from restaurants, a library, a gift shop, a gallery, and Hanging Rock. There’s plenty to explore in this quaint area, so your stay can be as relaxing or as fun-filled as you’d like.

10. Southern Belles Glamping

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6 sites · Lodging · Franklin, NC

Glamp in Vintage Style! Southern Belles Glampground, an exclusive retreat for adults (and their fur babies) seeking an escape to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Located in Franklin, NC our vintage camper paradise offers a serene experience amidst the tranquil beauty of the region. With six lovingly restored campers, adorned in exquisite mid-century style, we invite you to step into a world of elegance and relaxation Please note that Southern Belles Glampground is exclusively for adults, providing a tranquil and peaceful ambiance. We invite you to immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era, surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Book your stay with us and create cherished memories that will linger long after you depart from this enchanting retreat.

11. Wild at Heart Sanctuary

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3 sites · Lodging · Bryson City, NC

Wild at Heart Sanctuary is tucked away on a country road, yet within 10-15 minutes drive of amazing outdoor lover activities like mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, hiking and more. The property sits on nearly 3 acres with creeks running throughout, a wildflower labyrinth, rhododendron, views of the milky way, lovely canvas tents with queen beds, a vintage camper, fire pits, outdoor hot shower, and soon an outdoor kitchen and bathhouse.

Camper favorites in North Carolina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rock Cottage Farm

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(7)

1 site · Lodging · Canton, NC

Enjoy the sounds of the rolling mountain farm when you stay in our vintage 1975 camper. It’s a one-of-a-kind, all inclusive camping destination. Just bring your clothes and food and relax in our “everything is ready for you” camper nestled in the Smoky Mountains of WNC. Our mini-farm sits on 4.5 acre farm with the original rock house built in 1950 at the end of the road. We have loved where we live for 6 yrs and decided it was time to share our beautiful piece of God’s creation with others. In growing season, we have a garden and berry bushes, apple trees, grapes all growing on our property. We have a family playground and tree house. If looking for a country getaway near good access to activities, we are the place! We are 20-30 min to 3 entrances of the Blue Ridge Parkway and trails. We are 10 min from Chestnut Mnt. Park, with biking trails. 8 min to local river tubing. We are 4 min from a grocery store. 8 min to a small downtown with local stores and restaurants.

Vintage Camper 3 mi to Asheville

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(14)

1 site · Lodging · Asheville, NC

Great find! Cozy camper tucked in a quiet Cove less than three miles from the heart of Asheville. This bright and sunny vintage camper has been totally redone. It's clean, neat, and well-appointed. Enjoy a private outdoor shower in the bamboo grove, lounge on the outdoor couch, or grill out on the deck. In the evening, listen to the calls of nature around the fire and then cozy into the luxurious, full size, queen bed. Dragonfly has everything, A/C, central heat, a full kitchen, microwave, sink, hot water, flush toilet, indoor and outdoor showers, refrigerator, freezer, propane grill, smart TV, high-speed wifi, even an electric guitar! This camper is in a quiet, rural setting in a special cove. It is small and cozy.

Vintage Camper @ Hanging Rock

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1 site · Lodging · Danbury, NC

Campers will experience the full beauty of nature while enjoying comforting amenities in a cozy yet spacious setting. You won’t miss traditional tent camping with a fully equipped kitchen that includes a microwave, French press, dishes, and refrigerator. Sleeping is easy with both a single and a double bed. We’re just five minutes from restaurants, a library, a gift shop, a gallery, and Hanging Rock. There’s plenty to explore in this quaint area, so your stay can be as relaxing or as fun-filled as you’d like.

Southern Belles Glamping

86%

(7)

6 sites · Lodging · Franklin, NC

Glamp in Vintage Style! Southern Belles Glampground, an exclusive retreat for adults (and their fur babies) seeking an escape to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Located in Franklin, NC our vintage camper paradise offers a serene experience amidst the tranquil beauty of the region. With six lovingly restored campers, adorned in exquisite mid-century style, we invite you to step into a world of elegance and relaxation Please note that Southern Belles Glampground is exclusively for adults, providing a tranquil and peaceful ambiance. We invite you to immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era, surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Book your stay with us and create cherished memories that will linger long after you depart from this enchanting retreat.

Wild at Heart Sanctuary

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(2)

3 sites · Lodging · Bryson City, NC

Wild at Heart Sanctuary is tucked away on a country road, yet within 10-15 minutes drive of amazing outdoor lover activities like mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, hiking and more. The property sits on nearly 3 acres with creeks running throughout, a wildflower labyrinth, rhododendron, views of the milky way, lovely canvas tents with queen beds, a vintage camper, fire pits, outdoor hot shower, and soon an outdoor kitchen and bathhouse.

Stories from the community

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Sarah

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Vintage Camper @ Hanging Rock

Very cute vintage camper in prime location to Hanging Rock and Pilot Mtn. It was perfect for my first solo camping trip and had all the necessities for ease rather than tent camping, plus extra sweet gifts from Bridgette including fresh eggs from her chickens. Will absolutely be back for another quiet nature getaway!

C

Cole

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Rock Cottage Farm

Had an awesome time at Rock Cottage Farm. Rachel was an excellent host and made everything smooth and easy. Would recommend!

K

Kendall

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

We had a great time staying in the RV! The campground is very cool with a brewery and some walking trails. The hosts were very nice and accommodating. The location is near the Blue Ridge Parkway and lots of things to do. We would love to stay here again!

A

Alexis

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Gorgeous Stays Glampground

Wendi & Scott thought of ALL the details! Our stay was absolutely lovely in the 1962 “canned ham” — from the “camp store” in the lodge, to the clean & cozy bath house, + the communal fire pits…our stay was one we absolutely cannot wait to relive! We fully plan to return & are looking forward to another wonderful stay here! Memories made, for sure! Sincerely, thank y’all for making this trip extra-special! :)

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Sara

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rock Cottage Farm

The camper was super cute and comfortable. The hosts were respectful to our privacy, accommodating, and quick to respond to any questions I had. There was an outdoor shower that was really nice and warm. My friends and I had everything we needed for cooking in the camper. The farm animals were adorable and didn’t disturb us. Would definitely stay here again and recommend it to people!

J

Jonathan

August 2025

4 nights at Vintage Camper 3 mi to Asheville

All the camper elements worked perfectly, and the outdoor shower was especially nice, and private:)

Olivia

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Wild at Heart Sanctuary

I had an amazing time staying at the Daisy Camper. Emily was so kind and welcoming! As a solo female traveler I felt very safe here! The camper was so adorable and cozy and had everything I needed! She even has an outdoor shower!

Tess

May 2025

6 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

The best host/hostess and kindest human beings - The Orchard and Campground at Little Switzerland has truly become my home away from home. Cute personalized garden art make each private campsite a tiny oasis of reflection and relaxation. The brewery/cidery/winery is perfect - all homemade stuff and you don't have to worry about driving if you are enjoying the fabulous peach cider! (Got to try the chai one yesterday and that's pretty darn good too!! - need a backup because the peach is my fav but it's everyone's fav so it disappears). Location is perfect - convenient to lots of great local hikes and eats. Just got home and am already planning my return.

B

Brittany

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Rock Cottage Farm

This was such a cute little camper in such a beautiful spot! Rachel thought of all of the little details from farm fresh eggs to toiletries.. coffee, very comfy bed and anything else we may have needed. Such a peaceful spot. I can’t wait to visit again in the future!☺️

M

Michael

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Rock Cottage Farm

Very cute camper with all you need to relax. All basic needs were avalable. Quiet location with pretty views.

Cate

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Vintage Camper 3 mi to Asheville

Really fun place to stay. Me, my partner, and little dog had a wonderful time staying in this camper. Had everything we needed and very close to anything else one may want/need. Very comfy bed. Amazing outdoor shower. The patio and fire pit areas are also incredible to be in at the beginning and end of each day. Super relaxing. Will certainly be back.

R

Rayan

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock Cottage Farm

We really enjoyed staying at Rachel’s farm! We camped near the trailer and enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. It was very convenient to have access to the trailer for cooking, watching TV and getting a break from the elements. We are looking forward to staying there again!

Pamela

January 2025

2 nights at Vintage Camper 3 mi to Asheville

We had a great stay at Dragonfly!! The camper was absolutely adorable and as described! It was immaculate, well stocked, and everything worked perfectly! The beds were comfortable and the heat worked well and kept us nice and toasty! Whether you want to cook on a stove or a nice grill, this place gives you both options! The location was perfect...close to all the wonderful things that Asheville has to offer, yet when we were at Dragonfly, it felt like we were truly camping! The stars were exceptionally brilliant at night and the outdoor seating area was comfortable and cozy! We used the camper as a base camp and hiked some incredible trails, including Max Patch on the Appalachian Trail! If you have time to make the hour drive, this is a must see for all hikers! Han (the owner) was responsive to our needs and accomodated my Siberian Huskies. I truly cannot say enough good things about this location...we absolutely loved it and will definitely be returning for future visits!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best vintage trailers 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.