98% (3.6K) • 428 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam
Mountaintop Fantasy
1. Mountaintop Fantasy
98%
(236)
41mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Lodging
FALL/WINTER SPCIAL: 40% off weeknights.
NEW FOR 2025: Glenville High Treehouse and landscaped Overlook
Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best Treehouse 2023, the Glenville High Treehouse ( the "Treehouse" ) and the Overlook await you in 4 acres.
The two sites are directly across our driveway from each other. The Treehouse affords covered interior sleeping for 6 ( combination adults an kids ), a W/C and shower, WiFi, TV, all necessary cooking and dining equipment, water equipment and room to pitch a tent if desired. The Overlook site is landscaped,shared and offers a covered overlook, various out door dining and lounging tables, large outdoor stone fireplace and water and fishing equipment shared only with us.
PLUS free access to the community dock and our canoes and kayak. Playground for the kids including trampoline.
Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; swim, canoe, kayak and fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; enjoy the numerous nearby waterfalls; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands.
Or just hang out. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite far from the madding world.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$105
/ night
Holy Smokies RV Park And Glamping
2. Holy Smokies RV Park And Glamping
86%
(18)
29mi from Fontana Dam · 19 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Holy Smokies RV Park and Glamping, your peaceful hideaway in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Just a short drive from popular spots like Dollywood and The Island in Pigeon Forge, our park is tucked away off the main road, providing a perfect mix of tranquility and accessibility.
With accommodations ranging from full-hookup RV sites to stylish glamping tents, you’ll find the comfort and charm you’re looking for. Unwind by the creek, enjoy amenities like clean bathhouses, free Wi-Fi, or gather around a fire pit for a memorable evening.
Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Holy Smokies offers a welcoming escape for all types of travelers.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$55
/ night
Appalachian Pond Campground
3. Appalachian Pond Campground
97%
(170)
47mi from Fontana Dam · 17 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!!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
4. Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
29mi from Fontana Dam · 32 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
No matter the weather, no matter the time of year, here at Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins, a perfect relaxing stay is what we are all about. Enjoy a picturesque creekside retreat in Cherokee, NC, the hub of activity for Western North Carolina in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our full-hookup campsites and vacation log cabins feature just exactly what you need to get away and have some fun. Explore our peaceful setting and convenient amenities designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
*We are open May-October for stays in the campground, and year-round for the cabins and campsite #19.
If traveling West from I-40, we recommend taking Hwy 74 through Waynesville and Sylva to Cherokee for the best roads.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge
5. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge
89%
(37)
44mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available.
Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you.
Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
98% (3.6K) • 428 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam
Mountaintop Fantasy
1. Mountaintop Fantasy
98%
(236)
41mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Lodging
FALL/WINTER SPCIAL: 40% off weeknights.
NEW FOR 2025: Glenville High Treehouse and landscaped Overlook
Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best Treehouse 2023, the Glenville High Treehouse ( the "Treehouse" ) and the Overlook await you in 4 acres.
The two sites are directly across our driveway from each other. The Treehouse affords covered interior sleeping for 6 ( combination adults an kids ), a W/C and shower, WiFi, TV, all necessary cooking and dining equipment, water equipment and room to pitch a tent if desired. The Overlook site is landscaped,shared and offers a covered overlook, various out door dining and lounging tables, large outdoor stone fireplace and water and fishing equipment shared only with us.
PLUS free access to the community dock and our canoes and kayak. Playground for the kids including trampoline.
Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; swim, canoe, kayak and fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; enjoy the numerous nearby waterfalls; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands.
Or just hang out. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite far from the madding world.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$105
/ night
Holy Smokies RV Park And Glamping
2. Holy Smokies RV Park And Glamping
86%
(18)
29mi from Fontana Dam · 19 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Holy Smokies RV Park and Glamping, your peaceful hideaway in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Just a short drive from popular spots like Dollywood and The Island in Pigeon Forge, our park is tucked away off the main road, providing a perfect mix of tranquility and accessibility.
With accommodations ranging from full-hookup RV sites to stylish glamping tents, you’ll find the comfort and charm you’re looking for. Unwind by the creek, enjoy amenities like clean bathhouses, free Wi-Fi, or gather around a fire pit for a memorable evening.
Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Holy Smokies offers a welcoming escape for all types of travelers.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$55
/ night
Appalachian Pond Campground
3. Appalachian Pond Campground
97%
(170)
47mi from Fontana Dam · 17 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!!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
4. Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
29mi from Fontana Dam · 32 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
No matter the weather, no matter the time of year, here at Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins, a perfect relaxing stay is what we are all about. Enjoy a picturesque creekside retreat in Cherokee, NC, the hub of activity for Western North Carolina in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our full-hookup campsites and vacation log cabins feature just exactly what you need to get away and have some fun. Explore our peaceful setting and convenient amenities designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
*We are open May-October for stays in the campground, and year-round for the cabins and campsite #19.
If traveling West from I-40, we recommend taking Hwy 74 through Waynesville and Sylva to Cherokee for the best roads.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge
5. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge
89%
(37)
44mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available.
Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you.
Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
C
November 2025
Group trip
I really enjoyed spending time with my adult family away from the stresses of the holiday season. We spent daylight visiting Waterfalls, museums and dining. We bonded by the outdoor bonfire at night, and we shared family reflections and laughter in the one-room cabin. As a family that enjoys spending time together, this trip was magical.
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Eifel
October 2025
1 night at Mountaintop Fantasy
This a very unique and cozy treehouse cabin in a beautiful location, right by Lake Glenville. It is a comfortable space with lots of amenities for a fun weekend in the mountains, and feels very secluded surrounded by woods and at a high elevation. Despite being there in rainy weather, it was beautiful with all the fall foliage! And Peter is a very friendly and welcoming host. I would certainly recommend a visit!
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B
Brian
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy
This Treehouse/ Overlook was just right for glamping - all accommodations and ease of use! Warm space to sleep with WiFi, open air kitchen with full accessories, heated full bathroom and shower while being able to enjoy the view of the mountains and nature. Instructions and directions are well thought out and posted for everything. Layout is an easy walk and well designed - great place to to relax and just enjoy your time! Our furry host, Molly was a pleasure to meet and get to know too! Good times had by all!
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S
Stephanie
October 2025
Group trip
The property was quiet and well maintained. If you want to unplug for a few days then this is definitely the place. Convenient to Maggie Valley, Waynesville and the Blue Rodge Parkway. I really enjoyed our stay!
The only improvements I would suggest would be adding Plexiglass to close the glamping trailer in for the colder months so it could potentially be heated by a small electric heater or screening to keep the mosquitoes out during the summer.
Our trip was the first freeze of the fall and the trailer got very cold!
Luckily we had great sub zero sleeping bags and even a small electric blanket which helped tremendously. The moisture blowing in off the pond is really what made it a little uncomfortable.
I have camped with my horses in very similar set ups for years and found these things to be super helpful. This glamping set up has electricity which could make it a little more comfortable for folks who aren't used to the elements.
Great place and great hosts! Will definitely stay again.
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M
Morgan
October 2025
With kids
We had such a great time at the treehouse! The view is absolutely stunning; none of the pictures do it justice. We visited during peak leaf season, and it was beautiful. The location is perfectly secluded and private, yet close enough to enjoy all the attractions in Highlands and Cashiers if you want to explore.
We went with three adults and three kids (2, 4 & 5) and the cabin had plenty of space for everyone. Our first night there was much colder than what we were used to coming from home, but the space heaters kept us nice and toasty! Most of our time was spent around the fire and on the swings. The treehouse was stocked with more utensils and appliances than we could have ever needed, and it was such a treat to have a flushing toilet and hot water.
The highlight for our kids, though, was the hosts’ adorable puppy, Molly! She hung out with us most of the time and completely stole our hearts (and a couple shoes) but we loved every second of it. The kids were so sad to leave her when it was time to go.
The host was wonderful. He checked in frequently and was always available when we had questions, but never overbearing. He left us fresh eggs when we arrived and even had firewood available for purchase when we realized we’d forgotten ours. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. 10/10 recommend this magical spot!
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M
Marion
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground
What a unique stay!! John has created an awesome place to stay. The touches he has furnished a horse trailer with made me smile! If you needed it, it was there! He was responsive to all my messages and we'd stay again if we're in the area. Be advised you may need an extra blanket on cold nights! (Altho if I had looked it was probably there!)
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Sheila E
October 2025
2 nights at Appalachian Pond Campground
This glamping spot is awesome!!! John & Brandi are incredible hosts. I really needed a couple of nights in cool, fresh mountain air. The beds are super comfortable and the port- a-potty was spotless ( and odor free) !Excellent location. Jump at the chance to book.
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a
amy
September 2025
With kids
The owner has done a great job equipping the spot with everything you may need for a wonderful glamping experience. The view is INCREDIBLE!
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Colby
September 2025
With pets
Peter was great! Made sure we had what we needed and then gave us the privacy that this awesome treehouse offers. Our family of four enjoyed everything about it, from the views to the layout of the cabin. We are on our way home, already talking about when we can make the trip back!
See moreR
Ray
September 2025
With pets
Roomy, comfortable and wonderful views and privacy. Access to bath house was close by. Almost everything you could want or need.
See moreP
Peyton
September 2025
Group trip
The land and views were beautiful! We loved having multiple areas to hang out at
See moreD
David
August 2025
With kids
Beautiful and serene spot. Exactly what we were looking for. Our 3 kids had a great night of sleep on high bed (ages 8,6,4). My wife and I loved the space and hope to return soon.
See moreR
Ruthy
August 2025
With pets
Everything about our experience was magical! Peter has thought of everything in creating this rental. I brought 4 of my boys up here (ages 2-19). The cabin was plenty big enough and we could have fit another person. He had everything we needed on site and it was wonderful to have a real toilet and shower with hot water. We definitely want to come back again! Peter is an attentive and respectful host!
See moreB
Ben
July 2025
With pets
Coming from our home and the home of Studio Blynne ceramic studio in Woodfin, we had an amazing day at the Ten Acre Garden in Canton, teaching a workshop, and got to just keep driving! Landing at the Red Roof on Appalachian Pond Campground was everything we needed!!! We got to just flop in and have a place set up and ready that still kind of felt like camping for the kiddos, one of which was celebrating his second birthday!!! It rained hard. Due to the great setup and attention to tarping etc, we had light and dry area and got to make s’mores on the provided camping burners. Our 4yo LOVED the loft bed and us parents very much appreciated the coffee maker and everything we needed to make that first thing in the morning! We got to see bullfrogs, explore the creek and campsites, have a few great meals among a fantastic selection considering proximity to both Maggie Valley AND Waynesville, and we can’t wait to come back soon!!!!
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a
anna
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground
The trailer was so nice and a lot more spacious than I thought it would be. We swam in the pond, and it was so fun! The views were beautiful and Brandi was so helpful with everything!!! Would definitely recommend and definitely would come back.
See moreE
Emily
July 2025
Group trip
The trailer was very clean and cute! the fridge was cold and the linens were clean and comfortable, atmosphere was super cute, they stock lots of supplies for you for cooking, overall great stay.
See moreC
Cassandra
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground
The accommodation was great! I loved the multiple options of cooking tools and cleanliness of the trailer. You are pretty close to other campsites, one across the street and the porta potty for both sites are directly next to the trailer. It was super pretty on the pond and there was some traffic of people fishing in the pond and it was sweet. Not all of the windows are closed off in the trailer but this helps with airflow and we didn’t not encounter many bugs or mosquitos. The space itself was very well thought out and very organized. The hosts were extremely responsive and were there if we needed anything. The shower was INCREDIBLE! The water pressure and privacy was greatly appreciated. I would absolutely recommend anyone to stay here.
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Bill
June 2025
With pets
Peter, his communication and property are excellent. Truly enjoyed our stay, the accommodations, and the area. The sleeping area and deck are fantastic. The views are amazing. The lake and the surrounding areas are just close enough. But not too close. Private. Quite. So relaxing. We will be back.
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K
Kimberly
June 2025
With kids
I was traveling with 2 kids and 3 dogs (2 huskies) for my daughtets softball. We were on a tight budget so I booked this. It was a wonderful stay. The cabin is cute and we even had baby dear wake us our first Morning. Our host John went above and beyond building a fire for us and unclogging the toliet. Its beautiful there. We had the best time!
See moreD
Derek
June 2025
With pets
Very beautiful views and kids loved the treehouse. The host were very kind and accommodating. I would recommend downloading the region on Google maps before heading out since cell phone service is spotty. Our favorite spot on the visit was Cashiers Sliding Rock, we probably spent 8 hours out there in total.
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