- Camping with showers
The best camping near Fontana Dam with showers
97% (5K) • 3,111 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam
The Heart Center
1. The Heart Center
98%
(223)
3.3mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center, a retreat for the mind, body and spirit, sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.
The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary
for people wishing to get away from it all. It is now a historic site and a place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment.
Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!
The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature.
At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, restorative and joyful experience!
Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy.
We offer holistic energy healings, using various modalities such as Reiki and Non-dual Kabbalistic Healing. We also offer Life Coaching, Infrared Sauna, foot detoxification, and yoga, including asana exercises and meditation. Please speak with Liz to get additional information on this or to schedule a session. There are additional fees for these services.
Also, checkout the original gymnasium where there are hot showers, clean bathrooms, basketball or pickleball and ping pong. We also have a tennis court and The Sacred Choice Cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of tea, coffee, or snacks. You can sit and read for a while or check out our guest Peace and Oneness Book!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Happy Valley Hideaway
2. Happy Valley Hideaway
100%
(49)
14mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Learn more about this land:This primitive campsite is located 5 minutes from the Abrams Creek Ranger Station at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is private, shaded, and next to a small stream that will lull you to sleep at night. There is a bathhouse with a composting toilet and cold shower available. An old concrete picnic table stands as a testament to the enjoyment and relaxation of several generations and is now glad to be uncovered and open for many generations to come. There are numerous species of wild flora and fauna right there in your campsite! Across the fence is an old barn and field that will remind you of mountain living from days gone by. You will have access to miles of backcountry hiking once you take the 5 minute drive to the GSMNP and you can come back to your campsite and enjoy your privacy! You may also enjoy motorcycling on the dragon which is 5 miles at the end of Happy Valley Road. Or...maybe you just want to hang up the hammock and listen to the frogs and watch the fireflies. Whatever your hobby is, this campsite is the place to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Turkey Creek Campground
3. Turkey Creek Campground
100%
(14)
15mi from Fontana Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just a short drive from Bryson City in Western North Carolina, Turkey Creek Campground is the perfect staging ground for all your Smoky Mountain adventures. Our quiet, family-friendly campground is located just minutes from the Tsali Mountain Bike Trails, the Nantahala River and Outdoor Center, and the Appalachian Trail. The camp is located just steps from Fontana Lake where you can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, paddle-boarding or just leisurely enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. When the sun goes down, the fireflies come alive and are only outshined by the beautiful night sky views.
Our campground features generous and well-groomed tent pads, 20/30 and 50 amp power connections (full hookup available), freshwater access at every site, picnic tables and fire rings. If you’re traveling in a van, RV or pulling a trailer, we have options for all our guests. Our bathhouse and laundry facilities are impeccable and we have an elevated deck area that overlooks the camp and is perfect for gatherings or just sitting in a rocking chair enjoying a good book. If you really must be productive or keep yourself connected to the outside world, we have fast, reliable high-speed WiFi available throughout the camp.
Consistently voted one of the “Top 10 Best Campgrounds”, come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Turkey Creek Campground.
For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 828-307-3077.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Nantahala National Forest
4. Nantahala National Forest
95%
(73)
National forest 21mi from Fontana Dam · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moccasin Creek State Park
5. Moccasin Creek State Park
100%
(2)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites
Plentiful docking facilities, a gorgeous lake and adjacent trout hatchery create an angler's heaven.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Martin's Nest Nantahala
6. Martin's Nest Nantahala
100%
(68)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The creek in front of the property is available for use. Great for soaking when the weather gets hot and it's shallow enough to just bring a folding chair. Fish? Yes, there are some trout in there. Flies work best. Got kids? Build a dam! Go for a creek walk! Great hiking at the end of Wesser Creek Road. There is a trail by the creek and a fire tower with great view about 4.5 miles up that trail. Water source (spring) is available at the top. Follow the blue blaze. The white blazes at the top tell you you're on the Appalachian Trail. Take a side hike to Maine!
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is just down the road on 19/74. Rafting, zip lines, a ropes course, mountain biking... good food by the river, a bar, public restrooms... the works. They often have music by the river on the weekends.
This land was once a hillside farm, after it was first logged early in the last century. They used to grow corn all over the hillside, then let the cows up there to graze and eat up the stalks. If you look closely, you might find some barbed wire in an old oak here and there.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$44
/ night
Gorgeous Stays Glampground
7. Gorgeous Stays Glampground
100%
(17)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
8. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
97%
(74)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views.
Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee
border.
Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby.
Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.
Two separate bathhouses are available with 2 full bathrooms in each and a laundry room is also available.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
9. Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
90%
(48)
18mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin.
When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there.
Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
10. Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
88%
(4)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 55 sites
Discover the thrill of Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Black Rock Mountain State Park
11. Black Rock Mountain State Park
100%
(10)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 17 sites
Mountain top vistas and rugged terrain define this Georgia park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
12. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
96%
(68)
National forest 46mi from Fontana Dam · 557 sites
Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Vogel State Park
13. Vogel State Park
100%
(16)
State park 46mi from Fontana Dam · 39 sites
Georgia’s second-oldest state park is home to some of the state’s most scenic landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Blue Ridge Basecamp
14. Blue Ridge Basecamp
99%
(161)
19mi from Fontana Dam · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day.
We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away.
We also offer 6 fully stocked campers and 4 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic.
There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well-maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available March 1 - November 1.
We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white-water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20-minute drive.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Critter Camp
15. Critter Camp
92%
(185)
21mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs.
We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for
quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place.
We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey ,5 dogs , 2 house cats.
We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) and Townsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours.
We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and
less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance.
Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters with the horse and donkey , an occasional cat may wonder into your tent, and dogs.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$28
/ night
Smoky Mountain Meadows
16. Smoky Mountain Meadows
97%
(179)
21mi from Fontana Dam · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
17. The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
99%
(48)
22mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Fall in love with our secluded Off-Grid Cabin located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wake up to the sounds of a babbling creek and beautiful mountain views, hike the Road to Nowhere, kayak the Little Tennesee River, cook hot dogs over an open fire, and then open the glass panel garage door and fall asleep under the most beautiful sky you will ever see.
Rowdy Bear Highlights:
• 12ft glass panel door that opens the cabin to nature
• Queen Tempurpedic bed
• Rain Captured Shower
• Fire Pit
The Space:
The Rowdy Bear is an Off-Grid Cabin that is situated in the Great Smoky Mountains with easy access to both Bryson City and Franklin. The cabin itself was built using rough sawn wood acquired from a local sawmill. Many of the items used in the cabin came from local shops or antique stores.
There is a 2000-watt Solar Generator in the cabin that can be used for lights, charging cell phones, and running the pump for the shower. The Solar Panels are enough to charge the Generator to 100% each day.
Rainwater is used for showers. The gutter system on the cabin is used to catch rainwater. The downspout runs into a "First Flush Diverter", which allows any dust, dirt, or anything else that might land on the roof between the rainstorms to be diverted away from the water storage tank. The clean rainwater then fills the water storage tank. Be aware that Rainwater is fine for showers, but is not meant for drinking.
Propane is connected to a space heater and the shower. The space heater is 17,000 BTUs, which is plenty for colder nights. The shower has an at-source water heater and can heat the water up to 120 degrees, which is more than enough for a hot shower.
A porta potty is provided for bathroom purposes and is cleaned and restocked every Thursday.
Pets are allowed!
The following items are provided:
1. Linens
2. Towels
3. Coffee, Coffee Pot, and Coffee Cups
4. Body Wash
5. Shampoo
6. Board Games
7. Lanterns
8. Two Person Table and Chairs
9. Two Rocking Chairs
10. four Adirondack Chairs for the Firepit
11. Firepit
12. Outdoor table for food and drinks
13. Propane Torch for lighting fires
Guest access
The Rowdy Bear is situated on 2.5 acres of land. There is a large section cleared off where the cabin is located. There is plenty of room for the fire pit, vehicles, animals, and any outdoor games you might want to bring (cornhole).
Both Bryson City and Franklin are fairly close to the cabin. Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away, while Franklin is approximately 30 minutes away. Both towns offer great little downtown areas that have shopping and restaurants. Don't be afraid to try the food trucks, they have some of the best food.
Bryson City has many trails for hiking such as the Road to nowhere, Noland Divide Trail, Three Waterfalls Loop (FYI: There are three waterfalls on this trail), and Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. The fishing in Bryson City is also great and the guided trips are very reasonably priced. I would suggest going in the morning and doing a float trip.
Franklin is bigger and a little more spread out than Bryson city, but there are a lot of neat little stores and restaurants. I personally like going to the Currahee Brewing Company. Currahee is right on the river and is set up to host live bands and it gets pretty lively in the late afternoons and evenings on the weekends.
Other things to note
One of the things you would want to bring is a 1 lb propane bottle for the Torch that is provided. Using the torch to start a fire is much easier than kindling.
The solar generator has enough power to run the small coffee pot if you don't want to use the percolator. The generator also has enough power to run hair dryers. The main thing you want to keep in mind is anything that uses a heating element will drain the battery quickly. Lanterns are provided If needed. Overall, you should be good to go, but it is something to keep in mind.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
18. Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
98%
(31)
23mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Welcome and Thank you for choosing All Seasons Glamping for your unique camping experience nestled on 4.3 Acres in the mountains of North Carolina. We hope you will enjoy the nature and an outdoor adventure or two. Relax and Stargaze in our Hot Tub with Stunning Mountain Views. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, 15 minutes from Cherokee, NC and the Casino, 10 mins drive to the Great Smoky National Park, and 5 mins drive to Downtown Bryson City, NC. This cute little Private R-Pod Camper provides a unique, convenient and memorable stay with epic views overlooking the mountains, and some hiking trails down to a little creek below the property. Perfect for all Seasons. Join us for a new Glamping Adventure!
Toilets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
$91
/ night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
19. Twin Valley Horse Ranch
97%
(136)
23mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Magical Mountain Resorts
20. Magical Mountain Resorts
99%
(200)
25mi from Fontana Dam · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
97% (5K) • 3,111 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam
The Heart Center
1. The Heart Center
98%
(223)
3.3mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center, a retreat for the mind, body and spirit, sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.
The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary
for people wishing to get away from it all. It is now a historic site and a place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment.
Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!
The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature.
At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, restorative and joyful experience!
Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy.
We offer holistic energy healings, using various modalities such as Reiki and Non-dual Kabbalistic Healing. We also offer Life Coaching, Infrared Sauna, foot detoxification, and yoga, including asana exercises and meditation. Please speak with Liz to get additional information on this or to schedule a session. There are additional fees for these services.
Also, checkout the original gymnasium where there are hot showers, clean bathrooms, basketball or pickleball and ping pong. We also have a tennis court and The Sacred Choice Cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of tea, coffee, or snacks. You can sit and read for a while or check out our guest Peace and Oneness Book!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Happy Valley Hideaway
2. Happy Valley Hideaway
100%
(49)
14mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Learn more about this land:This primitive campsite is located 5 minutes from the Abrams Creek Ranger Station at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is private, shaded, and next to a small stream that will lull you to sleep at night. There is a bathhouse with a composting toilet and cold shower available. An old concrete picnic table stands as a testament to the enjoyment and relaxation of several generations and is now glad to be uncovered and open for many generations to come. There are numerous species of wild flora and fauna right there in your campsite! Across the fence is an old barn and field that will remind you of mountain living from days gone by. You will have access to miles of backcountry hiking once you take the 5 minute drive to the GSMNP and you can come back to your campsite and enjoy your privacy! You may also enjoy motorcycling on the dragon which is 5 miles at the end of Happy Valley Road. Or...maybe you just want to hang up the hammock and listen to the frogs and watch the fireflies. Whatever your hobby is, this campsite is the place to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Turkey Creek Campground
3. Turkey Creek Campground
100%
(14)
15mi from Fontana Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just a short drive from Bryson City in Western North Carolina, Turkey Creek Campground is the perfect staging ground for all your Smoky Mountain adventures. Our quiet, family-friendly campground is located just minutes from the Tsali Mountain Bike Trails, the Nantahala River and Outdoor Center, and the Appalachian Trail. The camp is located just steps from Fontana Lake where you can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, paddle-boarding or just leisurely enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. When the sun goes down, the fireflies come alive and are only outshined by the beautiful night sky views.
Our campground features generous and well-groomed tent pads, 20/30 and 50 amp power connections (full hookup available), freshwater access at every site, picnic tables and fire rings. If you’re traveling in a van, RV or pulling a trailer, we have options for all our guests. Our bathhouse and laundry facilities are impeccable and we have an elevated deck area that overlooks the camp and is perfect for gatherings or just sitting in a rocking chair enjoying a good book. If you really must be productive or keep yourself connected to the outside world, we have fast, reliable high-speed WiFi available throughout the camp.
Consistently voted one of the “Top 10 Best Campgrounds”, come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Turkey Creek Campground.
For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 828-307-3077.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Nantahala National Forest
4. Nantahala National Forest
95%
(73)
National forest 21mi from Fontana Dam · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moccasin Creek State Park
5. Moccasin Creek State Park
100%
(2)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites
Plentiful docking facilities, a gorgeous lake and adjacent trout hatchery create an angler's heaven.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Martin's Nest Nantahala
6. Martin's Nest Nantahala
100%
(68)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The creek in front of the property is available for use. Great for soaking when the weather gets hot and it's shallow enough to just bring a folding chair. Fish? Yes, there are some trout in there. Flies work best. Got kids? Build a dam! Go for a creek walk! Great hiking at the end of Wesser Creek Road. There is a trail by the creek and a fire tower with great view about 4.5 miles up that trail. Water source (spring) is available at the top. Follow the blue blaze. The white blazes at the top tell you you're on the Appalachian Trail. Take a side hike to Maine!
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is just down the road on 19/74. Rafting, zip lines, a ropes course, mountain biking... good food by the river, a bar, public restrooms... the works. They often have music by the river on the weekends.
This land was once a hillside farm, after it was first logged early in the last century. They used to grow corn all over the hillside, then let the cows up there to graze and eat up the stalks. If you look closely, you might find some barbed wire in an old oak here and there.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$44
/ night
Gorgeous Stays Glampground
7. Gorgeous Stays Glampground
100%
(17)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
8. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
97%
(74)
16mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views.
Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee
border.
Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby.
Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.
Two separate bathhouses are available with 2 full bathrooms in each and a laundry room is also available.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
9. Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
90%
(48)
18mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin.
When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there.
Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
10. Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
88%
(4)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 55 sites
Discover the thrill of Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Black Rock Mountain State Park
11. Black Rock Mountain State Park
100%
(10)
State park 43mi from Fontana Dam · 17 sites
Mountain top vistas and rugged terrain define this Georgia park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
12. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
96%
(68)
National forest 46mi from Fontana Dam · 557 sites
Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Vogel State Park
13. Vogel State Park
100%
(16)
State park 46mi from Fontana Dam · 39 sites
Georgia’s second-oldest state park is home to some of the state’s most scenic landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Blue Ridge Basecamp
14. Blue Ridge Basecamp
99%
(161)
19mi from Fontana Dam · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day.
We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away.
We also offer 6 fully stocked campers and 4 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic.
There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well-maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available March 1 - November 1.
We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white-water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20-minute drive.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Critter Camp
15. Critter Camp
92%
(185)
21mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs.
We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for
quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place.
We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey ,5 dogs , 2 house cats.
We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) and Townsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours.
We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and
less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance.
Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters with the horse and donkey , an occasional cat may wonder into your tent, and dogs.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$28
/ night
Smoky Mountain Meadows
16. Smoky Mountain Meadows
97%
(179)
21mi from Fontana Dam · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
17. The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
99%
(48)
22mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Fall in love with our secluded Off-Grid Cabin located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wake up to the sounds of a babbling creek and beautiful mountain views, hike the Road to Nowhere, kayak the Little Tennesee River, cook hot dogs over an open fire, and then open the glass panel garage door and fall asleep under the most beautiful sky you will ever see.
Rowdy Bear Highlights:
• 12ft glass panel door that opens the cabin to nature
• Queen Tempurpedic bed
• Rain Captured Shower
• Fire Pit
The Space:
The Rowdy Bear is an Off-Grid Cabin that is situated in the Great Smoky Mountains with easy access to both Bryson City and Franklin. The cabin itself was built using rough sawn wood acquired from a local sawmill. Many of the items used in the cabin came from local shops or antique stores.
There is a 2000-watt Solar Generator in the cabin that can be used for lights, charging cell phones, and running the pump for the shower. The Solar Panels are enough to charge the Generator to 100% each day.
Rainwater is used for showers. The gutter system on the cabin is used to catch rainwater. The downspout runs into a "First Flush Diverter", which allows any dust, dirt, or anything else that might land on the roof between the rainstorms to be diverted away from the water storage tank. The clean rainwater then fills the water storage tank. Be aware that Rainwater is fine for showers, but is not meant for drinking.
Propane is connected to a space heater and the shower. The space heater is 17,000 BTUs, which is plenty for colder nights. The shower has an at-source water heater and can heat the water up to 120 degrees, which is more than enough for a hot shower.
A porta potty is provided for bathroom purposes and is cleaned and restocked every Thursday.
Pets are allowed!
The following items are provided:
1. Linens
2. Towels
3. Coffee, Coffee Pot, and Coffee Cups
4. Body Wash
5. Shampoo
6. Board Games
7. Lanterns
8. Two Person Table and Chairs
9. Two Rocking Chairs
10. four Adirondack Chairs for the Firepit
11. Firepit
12. Outdoor table for food and drinks
13. Propane Torch for lighting fires
Guest access
The Rowdy Bear is situated on 2.5 acres of land. There is a large section cleared off where the cabin is located. There is plenty of room for the fire pit, vehicles, animals, and any outdoor games you might want to bring (cornhole).
Both Bryson City and Franklin are fairly close to the cabin. Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away, while Franklin is approximately 30 minutes away. Both towns offer great little downtown areas that have shopping and restaurants. Don't be afraid to try the food trucks, they have some of the best food.
Bryson City has many trails for hiking such as the Road to nowhere, Noland Divide Trail, Three Waterfalls Loop (FYI: There are three waterfalls on this trail), and Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. The fishing in Bryson City is also great and the guided trips are very reasonably priced. I would suggest going in the morning and doing a float trip.
Franklin is bigger and a little more spread out than Bryson city, but there are a lot of neat little stores and restaurants. I personally like going to the Currahee Brewing Company. Currahee is right on the river and is set up to host live bands and it gets pretty lively in the late afternoons and evenings on the weekends.
Other things to note
One of the things you would want to bring is a 1 lb propane bottle for the Torch that is provided. Using the torch to start a fire is much easier than kindling.
The solar generator has enough power to run the small coffee pot if you don't want to use the percolator. The generator also has enough power to run hair dryers. The main thing you want to keep in mind is anything that uses a heating element will drain the battery quickly. Lanterns are provided If needed. Overall, you should be good to go, but it is something to keep in mind.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
18. Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
98%
(31)
23mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site
Welcome and Thank you for choosing All Seasons Glamping for your unique camping experience nestled on 4.3 Acres in the mountains of North Carolina. We hope you will enjoy the nature and an outdoor adventure or two. Relax and Stargaze in our Hot Tub with Stunning Mountain Views. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, 15 minutes from Cherokee, NC and the Casino, 10 mins drive to the Great Smoky National Park, and 5 mins drive to Downtown Bryson City, NC. This cute little Private R-Pod Camper provides a unique, convenient and memorable stay with epic views overlooking the mountains, and some hiking trails down to a little creek below the property. Perfect for all Seasons. Join us for a new Glamping Adventure!
Toilets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
$91
/ night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
19. Twin Valley Horse Ranch
97%
(136)
23mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Magical Mountain Resorts
20. Magical Mountain Resorts
99%
(200)
25mi from Fontana Dam · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sydney
18 hours ago
Tent
Great site and great location! We’ve stayed at this location 3 times now and have been very pleased with it. The hosts are very responsive and so friendly!
See more
A
Addison
1 day ago
Tent
As a solo camper it was super important for me to find a campsite I felt safe and comfortable at and Kimber’s was just that! I felt totally safe the whole time and the campsite itself was well maintained and comfortable. The animals were a plus as well :) Kimber was an attentive host and gave great recommendations for hiking trails and cool places to check out. Would stay here again if I’m back in the area. Thank you Kimber!
See moreR
Rylie
6 days ago
Tent
we had such a fun weekend here! kimber was great and provided amazing suggestions for places to go. this was the perfect place for us to stay as 2 young women… we felt safe, the space was clean and it fit our needs! would definitely stay here again, thank you for a great weekend!
See more
R
Raul
1 week ago
20 ft travel trailer
With kids
Everything here was great! Excellent staff, clean showers and restrooms.
See more
Gina
2 weeks ago
31 ft truck camper
With kids
Ok, can I tell you… I sent my son & granspn up here for a weekend.. The hosts not only made them feel welcome LS but they extended their stay! Exactly what they needed.. Thank you so much for being everything a hipcamper dreams of!
See more
N
Nicole
2 weeks ago
4 nights at Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
Exactly as described. The hosts were wonderful and made sure we had everything we needed. This was easy to find and centrally located for all activities. I would stay here again.
See moreA
Aidan
2 weeks ago
Tent
Critter camp was great! We had a couple cold nights but Kimber was extremely accommodating with firewood and anything else we needed. Great site, great animals, amazing host, couldn't ask for anything else on our visit to the Smoky's.
See more
K
Kavi Mani Kumar
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Kimber, the host, has created a truly exquisite and open space here. It’s quiet and vast, perfect for soaking in the greenery. Kimber herself is so down-to-earth and inspiring, especially given her background with animal rescue. Seeing Cherokee the horse and the dogs (shoutout to Daffy!) added so much character to the stay. I left feeling refreshed and inspired!
The fellow campers were a lovely bunch to strike a conversation with.
Absolutely recommend this HipCamp.
Thank You, Kimber!
See more
D
Daniel
2 weeks ago
19 ft travel trailer
Great place to stay, very cute area, nice people, close to Cherokee. Sylva, Dillsboro and surrounding area. Will definitely go back to in the future
See more
E
Emory
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The glass house is great. We enjoyed the wood stove and star gazing from inside. The site is relatively private and well maintained. The bathrooms are very clean and the showers are hot. It’s the perfect site for glamping.
See more
Basil
2 weeks ago
Tent
The hosts were incredible communicators and made every part of our stay effortless. The platform site was perfect, falling asleep to the sound of the creek running right next to us and waking up to a sky full of stars was hard to beat. The location was ideal for our time at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and exploring Bryson City. Highly recommend this spot!
See more
D
Diego
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great location, clean bathroom with hot water! Highly recommended to someone wanting to check out the smokies
See more
S
Sarah
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved everything about our stay at Winding Stair Farm! The farm was beautiful, bathrooms clean and well stocked, and the camp store was so handy for essentials. We enjoyed walking by the river and visiting the farm animals every evening. Such a peaceful place and we cannot wait to stay again. Couldn’t recommended more!
See moreK
Kelly
3 weeks ago
1 night at Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
We arrived pretty late but it was not too tough to find!! The little spot and camper is so cozy!! We had such a wonderful time! We didnt use the hot tub, but it was toasty and ready for use! Outdoor shower was hot! I loved being able to hear the stream nearby.
See moreC
Callie
3 weeks ago
Tent
Simple place to stay especially if you have a dog. Great hiking nearby and of course it's a 15min drive from Pigeon Forge TN!
She does have a bunch of neighbors that can be a bit noisy if you're tent camping. Would definitely go here again
See more
T
Tony
February 2026
With pets
This is our second time staying here. It was another great stay! Highly recommend this cabin.
See more
N
Nick
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Basecamp
Great campsites and great location. This place is very convenient and the hosts are very responsive. I would definitely recommend if you’re going to be in this area.
See more
Karlee
January 2026
18 ft pop-up camper
With pets
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!! We had an amazing time. Amy was amazing and so kind. The animals were friendly. We camped right next to them and they were quiet. Everything was clean and the owner outdid herself with the decorations. Everywhere you turned there was a different whimsical item. We will definitely be going back. My only wish was there was a bathroom closer to where you park the RVs. It’s super close to the cabins though.
See moreT
Tony
January 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
Loved our stay at Conley’s Creek Campground. Highly recommended if you are in the area.
See moreT
Tony
January 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
We loved our spot so much we stayed an extra night!! Sites are nice and level. No problem getting in or out.
See more
