The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Cullowhee, North Carolina

Looking to explore the great outdoors with your furry friend near Cullowhee, North Carolina? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 4600 options available that cater to pets, you'll find the perfect camping spot for you and your four-legged companion. Whether you prefer a lakeside retreat or a mountain hideaway, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews). With popular amenities like showers and toilets, and activities like paddling and wind sports, your camping adventure awaits. And with prices starting as low as $8 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your furry friend, and let the adventure begin!

97% (15.1K) • 1,422 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cullowhee

Looking to explore the great outdoors with your furry friend near Cullowhee, North Carolina? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 4600 options available that cater to pets, you'll find the perfect camping spot for you and your four-legged companion. Whether you prefer a lakeside retreat or a mountain hideaway, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews). With popular amenities like showers and toilets, and activities like paddling and wind sports, your camping adventure awaits. And with prices starting as low as $8 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your furry friend, and let the adventure begin!

97% (15.1K) • 1,422 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cullowhee

1. Quiet Troublesome Gap

99%

(99)

39mi from Cullowhee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

My parents bought the 120 acre property in the 1960s. I started clearing and building the campsite in 2019. Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side.  There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents.   There are also great spots to hang your hammock.   Camp where my family camps.  My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends.  We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too! The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer.  You'll have 3 acres all to yourself.  The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away.  There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.   This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away.  Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking. The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away.  Asheville is about an hour away. The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road.  However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper.   If you are pulling a trailer you'll really want to consider having 4wd. If you aren't used to driving on steep dirt mountain roads, you may want to bring your 4wd vehicle. If you have a 2wd vehicle, then you'll want to come to the site via Big Pine Road. This route will take you through Walnut, NC We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience. This is a campsite where have the whole 3.5 acre property to yourself. You are surrounded by properties that vary from 40 acres to over a hundred acres. We just want you to have a great time and bring home great stories. It seems like every visitor to Troublesome Gap has a great story. Come camp with us and build your own story. Important Note: Water is only available on the site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Otherwise you'll need to bring your own water. There is a camera on the property. It faces the gate (and away from the campsite).

2. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%

(133)

47mi from Cullowhee · 5 sites · Lodging

My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 

3. Mountain Paradise

92%

(133)

43mi from Cullowhee · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy a campsite to yourself on top of a mountain with beautiful mountain and sunset views. Situated near the charming and historic town of Marshall, nearby Hot Springs, Mars Hill and Asheville, you'll have access to a variety of delightful experiences. Despite being close to these attractions, our location is tucked away at the end of a dead-end, low-traffic road. With easy access off the paved road. You’ll have the camp area to yourself although there are some other homes in the neighborhood around our land. Tag us and follow our Instagram @mountainparadisecampground Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled with the proximity to the Pisgah National Forest, the Appalachian Trail, and numerous other beautiful hiking trails, recreational activities, and tourism opportunities.

4. Cozy Creekside Camping

32mi from Cullowhee · 1 site · RV

LOT ONLY, with full hookups This cozy creekside lot is perfect for your next outdoor camping adventure—just bring your own RV, travel trailer, pop-up, or other RVIA-certified camper. Most of the photos were taken in January, but in spring, summer, and fall this lovely shaded campsite feels secluded and serene, while still offering all the comforts of home. The site includes creekside posts for hanging a hammock and a fireside hanging-chair post. It is located near the pool, bathhouse, laundry facilities, and a small playground. The lot is located in a gated campground with many amenities, including two seasonal pools, a coin-operated laundromat, a game room, an exercise facility, and a seasonal restaurant. You are also welcome to book this lot through the campground’s main office, but my Hipcamp listing is cheaper. Other things to note Pets are welcome. However, please be aware there is a $10 non-refundable pet fee, paid upon check-in through the campground office, to cover the cost of the pet waste stations throughout the park. This fee is charged by the campground and is not included in the rental price paid through Hipcamp. Please let me know if you plan to bring any pets, and I will share the campground’s pet policy information.

5. Smoky Mountain Meadows

97%

(179)

16mi from Cullowhee · 168 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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jeremy

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Had a great time, Janice was the nicest host. The land was magnificent, we didn't have time to explore many trails or fish in the pond. However, we will be returning to more fully experience the ranch.

M

Montana

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Quiet Troublesome Gap

We loved our weekend at Troublesome Gap! The drive up (by itself) is gorgeous, and being able to see the sunrise and sunset from the site is amazing. The general store is worth the visit, and you can’t beat the milkshakes at Dave’s. Montie was really great with communication and I’ll definitely be back! I

J

Jacqueline

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Mountain Paradise

Incredible views and magical sunset! We stayed in the camper spot with our truck camper. Didn't get to explore the rest of the property but definitely recommend.

R

Ryan

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Awesome experience. It was our kids first time camping. They loved the animals and learning how to work with the mini horses. Janice and Jaden are phenomenal hosts and teachers.

B

Blue

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Paradise

The view is beautiful as everybody else said. There's also plenty of space and he was nice enough to leave behind a decent pack of logs for the campfire. There are a few things that some people might consider downsides that I didn't see listed in the reviews. Though it isn't busy, the campsite is pretty close to the road. Maybe 30ft or so. While I was there, one of the neighbors happened to be doing some construction well into the night and two neighbors have pretty persistent outside dogs. The owner (I'm guessing) showed up during one of the days to do some construction on a cabin he's building a little bit further down the hill (great spot for a cabin). Though he left around sundown. Again, beautiful site and I'm greatful to have spent the weekend there, just wanted to share some details.

K

Katie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Paradise

Awesome campsite beside a beautiful creek surrounded by mountain laurels and rhododendrons. The hike down and back out was a great little workout that helps to ensure your seclusion. It was a very peaceful spot. We will definitely return!

A

Abigail

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Paradise

The land was beautiful! It wasn’t very secluded but it was peaceful and we enjoyed our time there.

B

Barclay

November 2025

25 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Quiet Troublesome Gap

Super nice spot, Quiet, great fire pit, So nice to have the port o let and some electricity! Great sunrises

K

Ken

October 2025

22 ft Class C

4 nights at Smoky Mountain Meadows

Lovely spot, not an easy drive at night Everything you need

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Quiet Troublesome Gap

Great location, clean site. Clear directions and communication from Montie. Would definitely go back!

Christopher

October 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Mountain Paradise

Absolutely stunning views. Mostly very quiet with some quaint country sounds like an occasional donkey or hound dog. Dead end road so almost no traffic. We had our 13 foot camper pulled by a mid sized truck so it took some maneuvering to get into place. The " exit" drive has deep ruts so its better to go in and out from the " entrance" drive.

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at Mountain Paradise

This campsite was absolutely beautiful, honestly even better than we expected! It was huge, peaceful, and surrounded by the most stunning fall foliage? Between exploring up and down the creek, the little waterfalls, and the quiet wood paths, it felt like our own private retreat. We ended up staying all four days without leaving once, we just wandered up and down the creek, read, relaxed by the fire, and enjoyed the scenery. It was perfect! Now, getting there is a bit of an adventure! The drive up and down the mountain was pretty scary, and the hike from the parking area to the campsite is steep. It is totally doable, but definitely a workout. We left some things in the car and made a few trips up when we needed to. The provided cart helped a ton (honestly, we don’t know what we would’ve done without it), but hauling camping gear like tents and cots still wasn’t an easy task, and we’re fairly fit people! That being said, it was so worth it! The peace, beauty, and space made it one of the best camping experiences I’ve ever had. I’d absolutely do it all over again just to experience this place one more time!

M

Madison

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

What an amazing experience! A slice of Heaven and Janice is so great and explains everything upon arrival. I will be back many more times!

J

Jackson

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Mountain Paradise

Absolutely gorgeous place, already thinking about returning in the future.

J

Jake

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Quiet Troublesome Gap

Great tent or Rv camping spot with awesome views and excellent privacy. Lots of wildlife too!

B

Bobbie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Smoky Mountain Meadows

I tent camped here for 2 nights in the middle of the week. My site was very comfortable, next to restrooms and shower facilities, which were very clean. Even had a spot for my hammock! Was pretty quiet and started to get a little busier as I was leaving on Friday morning.. only complaint I had was some dogs across the street at a house that barked and barked and barked at inconvenient times (when trying to sleep) very nice views

G

Glen

October 2025

4 nights at Smoky Mountain Meadows

I stayed in the Dogwood cabin and it was perfect. The cabin was clean when I checked in and the bed (queen) was very comfortable. The bathrooms were also clean and it was nice having a microwave nearby. The campground was quiet. There seemed to be quite a few full-timer sites that weren’t occupied. Would definitely stay there again.

R

Ronald

October 2025

Tent

6 nights at Smoky Mountain Meadows

Loved the campsite and campgrounds. Attentive staff, clean shower houses, and clean camp ground. Nice little (not overpriced) camp store that has ice and firewood if you need it. Also has a dishwashing area, was super nice to not have to boil water to do dishes. Will definitely recommend to any friends.

D

David

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Quiet Troublesome Gap

The site had plenty of room. The view was beautiful. Plenty of woods to find firewood, there is no one around, very peacefully.

E

Eric

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mountain Meadows

The campground was nice and well kept. Bath house was clean. There were a lot of motorcyclists staying this weekend, I think it’s because of the campground location. Site 25 was right and had a stump in the middle of it, but we called the office (even after hours) and they helped me get situated in another site that better accommodated us. Overall we enjoyed our stay here and would recommend this campground to a friend!