The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Fontana Dam, North Carolina

Looking to go camping near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 4600 options in the area that accommodate pets, you're sure to find the perfect spot for you and your four-legged companion. Some of the top campsites in the area include Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), and Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside (266 reviews), all highly recommended by fellow campers. With popular amenities like potable water, trash facilities, and showers, and activities such as hiking, wind sports, and surfing, your camping experience will be top-notch. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $8, you'll find a camping spot that fits your budget. Happy camping!

97% (9.1K) • 1,332 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam

Looking to go camping near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 4600 options in the area that accommodate pets, you're sure to find the perfect spot for you and your four-legged companion. Some of the top campsites in the area include Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), and Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside (266 reviews), all highly recommended by fellow campers. With popular amenities like potable water, trash facilities, and showers, and activities such as hiking, wind sports, and surfing, your camping experience will be top-notch. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $8, you'll find a camping spot that fits your budget. Happy camping!

97% (9.1K) • 1,332 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam

1. Cashiers Private RV Campsite

100%

(29)

49mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · RV

This is a stunning, single remote camper/RV site with water, electric and septic hook-ups, a hot tub, outdoor shower and breath-taking views of Whiteside Mountain and Black Rock Mountain. Our 19 acres on Brushy Mountain is nestled away in the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area of the Nantahala National Forest, the largest of NC's four National Forests with over 500,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The famous Iron Bridge over the headwaters of the Chattooga River is just a short drive away down Bull Pen Road. You will find some of the best trout fishing and hiking trails in all of North Carolina at your doorstep. This temperate rain forest is enjoyable in every season and is exceptional in its ecological diversity and abundance. If you are interested in hiking to beautiful waterfalls, fishing in native trout streams, bird watching or star gazing, this is the place for you! And if you need supplies from town, Cashiers is the closest and is about 25 minutes away and Highlands is about a 45 minute drive. Both have great restaurants and shops to check out. Our gated, gravel driveway is steep and a half mile long. You will need an all-wheel or 4 Wheel drive vehicle to get up the driveway without spinning. There is ample space to turn around to park, but due to the nature of our driveway we limit the length of RV's to no more than 20 feet. If you do not feel comfortable maneuvering your RV up steep. winding and gravel terrain, please email me to discuss.

2. Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

98%

(90)

39mi from Fontana Dam · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you love the outdoors, our authentic yurts and improved campsites have it all. This peaceful mountain is located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, on a 108-acre eco-forestry private reserve. Nestled up to 2 national forests, in The Land of 150 Waterfalls, local activities are abundant. Our outdoor experience offers complete, private access to guests only, with fishing, tubing, kayaking, and hiking activities on the property. A rugged 9-hole disc golf trail encourages exploration of your private mountain. Our yurts provide large fire pits, exquisite views from their ample porches, hugging you with a warm, peaceful welcome home from a day full of activities. Our yurts are nicely appointed with a queen-size bed, mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee pot. The detached 144 sq ft shared bath house provides all the facilities, as well as towels and basic bathing necessities for yurt stays only. Lie on the heated mattress pad with soft linens and watch the stars sail across the clear dome as you drift off to sleep to dream of the day's adventures. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, yurts, or free range camping and hiking. The views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate on the property. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to the mountain. All walks of life love the outdoors... The outdoors is here, Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

3. 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.

4. Cozy Creekside Camping

36mi from Fontana Dam · 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. Waterside lot

95%

(21)

44mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · RV

The mountains are calling! North GA RV vacation lot for rent in Morganton, GA just 7 miles east of Blue Ridge…nightly, weekly, or monthly rental. Located in Waterside RV resort with community pool, laundry facilities, wood fired pizza oven, and much more! Site has full hook up with 30/50 AMP service, water and sewer. WIFI and cable available but reception is not guaranteed. Paved 20’x50′ concrete pad. Site and gate code will be emailed on date of reservation by 7:00 AM. RV REGULATIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS: RVs who do not meet requirements will not be permitted within the Community. Class A - Minimum of 16 Feet Class B - Must be approved by Management. Minimum of 16 Feet - Bumper to Bumper. Class C - Must be approved by Management. Minimum of 16 Feet - Bumper to Bumper. Fifth Wheel - Minimum Length of 16 feet Livable Space. Travel Trailers - Minimum Length of 24 feet Livable Space. Exclusively prohibited: tents, tent campers, pop-ups, truck campers, vehicles on a truck or semi-truck chassis, or such other units not specifically manufactured to be sold as a recreational vehicle including but not limited to fold out campers and any recreational vehicles not equipped for full utility hookups to water, sewer, and electrical systems.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Slightly dig in uphill tires and put downhill tires on 2 high ramps to get level

K

Kathryn

December 2025

21 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

...WOW. This was absolutely perfect for us, but may have TOO MUCH privacy for some folks. You are truly alone here. Incredible hardwood property. Beautiful hikes, fishing, and drives in the area. We made it up - no problem - with a 21' camper (25' true length) and a crew cab 2500, but this is about max length (2-3 steep, narrow gravel switchbacks -- 4x4 mandatory). Bring extra leveling blocks and 30' of sewer hose. For the right people with the right rig, this spot simply can't be beat. Thank you for sharing!

Brooks

December 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Host was very helpful and the site was beautiful. This is one of those HIPCAMP jewels that I want to keep to myself, but its too good not to share. You won't be disappointed.

C

November 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Mountaintop Fantasy

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.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Amazing location! We absolutely loved the privacy and beautiful view. The hot tub was especially nice in the cold evenings.

Jonathan

November 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

My wife and I stayed at Lees site for 4 nights. We just left today and I have to say we did not want to leave. We are avid campers and have stay a lot of places up down the eastern US. This site by far takes our top stay. The availability of well water, power hooks up, and firewood just helped us to tent camp for 4 nights. But how could we not bring up the view? The view of the white rock mountains was so beautiful. It almost makes the site not feel real. It feels like a hallmark movie. The fact that Lee chose to add a hot tub just adds to the site. My wife and I enjoyed our coffee every morning in the hot tub. And if you want seclusion this is it. The drive up to the site from the gate feels like 2-3 miles of driving and you don’t hear a car or a person the whole time you’re there. So 5 stars. Lee does a great job. Clean site and very communicative also. We don’t have a bad thing to say and we will be back. If you’re reading this right now. Stop reading. Go book the site. Oh and make sure you stay 3 nights and have 2 full days there. 1 day there wouldn’t be enough. Trust me.

Casey

November 2025

10 ft campervan

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Beautiful spot surrounded by wildlife and mountain scenery. The campsite is perfectly situated on a comfortable clearing. The host was incredibly helpful with any and all questions and I am thoroughly pleased with our stay. The best Hipcamp site I’ve experienced so far. Highly recommended if you really want to get away and enjoy the best North Carolina has to offer.

J

Julia

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

I would definitely recommend Destination Outdoors! Matt is an awesome host, and he has created an amazing spot. The yurts are super comfy and the bathroom is great!

J

Jeffrey

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Awesome place and view, no neighbors in sight or earshot. Super private place where you can really feel alone and away from it all. The drive is pretty steep and somewhat tight in a spot or two in the dark, but we had no issues, just put it in 4wd at the bottom and eased up to the top.

Access to canoes and a dock just a short drive (or walk) from the cabin.

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!

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!

Mandy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

Had such a peaceful night at this campsite. A little pricey but worth it for a perfect camping night during peak season

Mary

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Four wheel drive must have! Once you conquer the drive in, you have made it to a pure private slice of what the wilderness area is all about, only with very bougie accommodations. Our stay was a peak leaf change and wow what a spectacular show with a phenomenal view that is unbelievable. Already booked next year's trip.

T

Todd

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Waterside lot

The site was great with a nice view of the small pond. Very quiet, gated community with a lot of nice tiny homes for permanent residents. Also, the location is close enough to Blue Ridge to uber over if you didn’t tow a car. Will probably go again sometime.

Fire pit area with swinging benches to the side of the cabin.

M

Morgan

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

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!

Jessica

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

We LOVED this site. It’s definitely steep, our Jeep Cherokee almost didn’t make it… they’re not joking about needing 4WD. But this was definitely one of our favorite spots!

Charlene

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

This is a really special place. The views and the hot tub were both amazing! There are lots of nature trails to explore nearby if you want to venture out. We had a great weekend and appreciate the host offering this place for others to experience it.

Candace

September 2025

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Incredible views, hot tub and shower were such a nice luxury. Great grassy area for the dogs to enjoy. Will definitely return!

S

Stephen

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

It was a great place to stay. Definitely gonna book it again asap!

A

Amy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

We enjoyed our stay in the yurt on Matt’s land. We walked down to the river and up to a view at 3000+ ft-all on the property. Beautiful! ! The bathroom is clean. The yurt was comfortable. There was plenty of room for tents on the site. Matt was responsive, kind and helpful. Will definitely be back!