The best waterfall campgrounds near Fontana Dam, North Carolina

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're seeking a camping experience near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with the stunning beauty of waterfalls, you're in luck. We have over 900 options in this area that perfectly match your preferences. With options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $40 per night, you're sure to find a campsite that fits your budget. Some of our top campsites near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with waterfalls include Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews), and Secluded Waterfall Haven (212 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as trash disposal, toilets, and are pet-friendly. Additionally, you can enjoy exciting activities like wind sports, horseback riding, and swimming. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience surrounded by nature's beauty!

97% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're seeking a camping experience near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with the stunning beauty of waterfalls, you're in luck. We have over 900 options in this area that perfectly match your preferences. With options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $40 per night, you're sure to find a campsite that fits your budget. Some of our top campsites near Fontana Dam, North Carolina with waterfalls include Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews), and Secluded Waterfall Haven (212 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as trash disposal, toilets, and are pet-friendly. Additionally, you can enjoy exciting activities like wind sports, horseback riding, and swimming. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience surrounded by nature's beauty!

97% (1.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fontana Dam

1. Cherokee Waterfall Campground

97%

(192)

32mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Please read the entire listing because I have updated this page. The booking is for 2 people, any guest after the initial 2 or pet will be $10 per night. Add them as extra guests Pull down a paved road and get out of your car and sit down at a picnic table in front of a private waterfall! This site has a pull through, full hookup spot with 30amp for campers but tents are always welcome or a combination of the two. I've had a 33' camper, popup camper and 6 tents at this campsite all at the same time so there plenty of room for your family and friends! We're 2.5 miles from the Cherokee Casino and 3.5 miles from down town Cherokee If you're tired of crowded campgrounds then you'll love the privacy this campground offers. This is now a two site campground with each site being around 100' away from the other site with trees and vegetation growing in between, you more or less cant see on site from the other from May until November. There is a orange cone that marks the border of the two sites. One set of campers will not be allowed on the other campers campsite, if this happens you will be evicted with no refund. Check in is at 2pm and check out is at 12pm. No shooting firearms, (although you may hear people shooting firearms because you will be camping in the mountains) but your more than welcome to bring your firearms. Its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.   No fireworks. No making trails or collecting firewood (This is not because I want to sell you firewood, its because I want to have the property remain as pristine as possible) Do not cut down trees alive or dead  If you move picnic tables please move them back Dogs are permitted but message me first to see if your do will be a good fit. There is a small Church around 200 yards from the campground. They hold services every Wednesday and Sunday. They generally start around 5pm and it lasts around a hour. If your into that they would love to have you come down. The EBCI opened a dispensary around 3 miles from the campground. It will open to all adults over 21 starting September 7th 2024. Message me with any questions you have

2. Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

96%

(67)

47mi from Fontana Dam · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging

In the heart of the Smoky Mountains surrounded by Cherokee National Forest lies Standing Bear Farm, a turn of the century multi-generational farmstead including the original homestead, barns, outbuildings and farmhouse. The outbuildings have now been converted to a bunkhouse and cabin where we offer rustic lodging to hikers and others interested in stepping back from today's hectic lifestyle to a time in America's past when life in rural back-country Appalachia was considered the "good life". We are accessible by road via I40. There is a small exit due to construction (BE CAREFUL, as we have had Hipcampers miss the exit) Keep left, go underneath the interstate and up the gravel road (going around the road closed signs) to our hostel which is the first building you come to. We are first-come, first-served in Northbound thru hiking season (March 15 through May 15), however, reservations are available at all other times of the year by contacting us via phone 4234870014 (Call) or 4236080149 (Call or Text). Hike or drive-in. Business hours: 8am-8pm. Open year round and on holidays. Call ahead if arriving early in the morning or late at night. We offer shuttles to various beautiful hikes, waterfalls, and more—on and off the trail. Please call or text us for prices and scheduling or you may email to get a price quote. Price varies based on party size, distance, and road conditions and closures. Give us a call to inquire about our kenneling and shuttle service for your furry friends that are not allowed in the GSMNP. We have trail-foods and ready-to-make foods available on site for all your hiking needs. We also have a camp fuel for sale as well as toiletries and other trail essentials. Restock on essential food items to get you on to Hot Springs (northbound) or through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (southbound). We also have items to cook on hand such as pizzas, burgers, and much more! Book today for a taste of authentic, rustic Appalachian charm. Our farm is steps away from the wilderness, with all the amenities you need. We look forward to meeting ya!

3. Gateway to the Smokies

94%

(248)

28mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Private campground featuring two very large campsites on our 2 acre property. The private drive and bridge that crosses over our creek has a security cable that can be locked. We are located right off of Hwy 441. Just 4 miles to Cherokee, 7 miles to National Park Entrance and 8 miles to Bryson City.

4. Nantahala National Forest

95%

(73)

438 sites · Franklin, North Carolina

Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

98%

(193)

621 sites · Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Forest trails link campsites with waterfalls and reminders of once-bustling Appalachian communities.

6. Mother Well Remote Glamping or Tent

90%

(15)

33mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents

Hut or Tent, your choice. We just added the tent platform and it is your choice as to tent platform or Hut. They are about a football field away from each other. Get away from it all on a secluded mature wooded hill twenty minutes from the Ococee River. You can feel how old the Appalachian mountains are here. Remote enough and private but no 4WD needed (flat terrain to parking) and enough neighbors if needed (road running through property leads to subdivision by Apalachia Lake so has traffic on it.) To the right of the road is a creek and bog, to the left we have several acres of woods to explore and relax in. You will see an occasional car on the private road that runs below the Hut but on the hill, you will have complete privacy. Please note we have not yet added a firepit or compost toilet to the tent platform so you will be needing to go to the Hut for both of those. You can get to the Hut from the Platform along the road or through the woods. It is a beautiful place to chill and hang out that we are happy to share with you. Three of ten acres to the right of the road that runs through our property are a bog that runs along a creek with the creek joining wild remote Apalachia Lake. (Pretty much unpassable Nature saying keep out.) But enjoy hiking and exploring our seven gently sloping mature wood hills. There are also lots of well maintained dirt hillside roads for exploring or biking. Enjoy our Baba Yaga hut with only the bare necessities but you will be flat, dry and able to enjoy the woods all to yourself. Or the Tent Platform pretty much complete privacy. When one is rented, we take the other off the calendar so you get the entire place to yourself. Come explore and then chill away from it all.

7. Sky High Ridge RV Campground

97%

(412)

41mi from Fontana Dam · 15 sites · RVs

Escape the noise and heat of the valley. Chill in the cool mountain air high atop the Highlands Plateau with breath taking views and sunsets. Unhitch and relax in one of our secluded treed sites with water, up to 100 amp electric, and waste hookup. Base camp to adventure in hiking, waterfalls, kayaking, winter and summer tubing, ice skating, and the largest Zipline in NC, in National Forests and Parks. Bartram Trail, that peaks Rabun Bald, and the Appalachian Trail are a within a stones throw. Our campground is for the hardy even getting here is an adventure!Sky high Ridge Campground is in the western mountains of North Carolina at a cool altitude of about 3700 feet.Welcome!

8. Magical Mountain Resorts

99%

(198)

25mi from Fontana Dam · 16 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

9. Trout Creek Campgrounds

94%

(194)

43mi from Fontana Dam · 22 sites · Tents, RVs

Located off the grid but close to amazing hikes, water sports, fishing and all things nature. This campground has full hookups, both 30 and 50 amp as well as primitive sites, all on or near a natural creek with native trout.This is a famoly run and safe and friendly campground for all to enjoy the great Smoky Mountains. ALL BOOKINGS ARE AUTOMATICALLY OFF-CREEK. UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE DEPENDANT ON AVAILABILITY. SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE HOWEVER ALL PAYMENTS ARE NONREFUNDABLE.

10. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(48)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!

11. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

97%

(62)

557 sites · Blairsville, Georgia

Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Black Rock Mountain State Park

100%

(10)

17 sites · Mountain City, Georgia

Mountain top vistas and rugged terrain define this Georgia park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Sumter National Forest

88%

(13)

259 sites · Joanna, South Carolina

Explore the vast South Carolina wilderness on foot, by bike, or by boat

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

14. Harmony Glen

98%

(183)

46mi from Fontana Dam · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

My property has supported families for several generations. From a small farm with typical livestock and vegetable gardens to a tree seedling nursery to hiking trails to cattle grazing in the fields, it has served its owners well. During the 1940's and early '50's, the Argura Post Office was located on the porch of my house. I have the original cancellation stamp. My husband is deceased, and I am hosting campers to meet people who love to camp as much as we did. My photo is with my dog Mollie. I hike with a group weekly and can make hiking suggestions as well as fishing suggestions. Harmony Glen is a wonderful place!

15. Friendship Falls Campground

88%

(25)

42mi from Fontana Dam · 7 sites · Lodging

Friendship Falls Campground is a small campground with ten sites on the river, featuring a small waterfall. We have several tiny homes and RV hookup sites that offer electric, water, and sewer hookups. Additionally, our property features a bathhouse for all guests to use, as well as a community pavilion for socializing and relaxing

16. Secluded Waterfall Haven

100%

(420)

40mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV

This property has been in our family for over 50 years and has provided the backdrop for countless memories! We are delighted to share our piece of heaven with you and hope that you will enjoy the same love that we have!This is a camper's heaven with waterfalls on-site! A completely private, gated campsite with over 4.5 acres to call your own during your stay. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northeast Georgia, beautiful scenery abounds with ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.In addition to what you will find at our campsite, options for white-water rafting, zip-lining, kayaking and hiking are mere minutes away!This property is conveniently located to the charming towns of Highlands, NC and Clayton, GA where you will find a variety of local shops and restaurants. The regionally-aclaimed Dillard House is less than 5 miles away.

17. Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

98%

(90)

39mi from Fontana Dam · 8 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!

18. Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites

90%

(48)

18mi from Fontana Dam · 13 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.

19. The Cove at Dick Branch

96%

(23)

11mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

The Cove at Dick Branch is a trails focused mountain side campground. Horse stalls and pasture available on request. The property is secluded and away from traffic noise but not difficult to get to. Everyone who sees the property comments on its beautiful grounds. The mountain rises above the camp sites with hiking trails leading directly from your site.

20. Trout Creek Falls

41mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Tent

Bring a tent and fall asleep listening to the crashing of whitewater at this creekside campsite with a private swimming hole and water fall. Accessible via paved, main roads, but with minimal traffic, this is the perfect spot for exploring Western North Carolina’s natural beauty. There is an unoccupied house on the property with parking for up to 2 vehicles. Please remember to leave no trace!

Camper favorites near Fontana Dam

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Cove at Dick Branch

96%

(23)

11mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

The Cove at Dick Branch is a trails focused mountain side campground. Horse stalls and pasture available on request. The property is secluded and away from traffic noise but not difficult to get to. Everyone who sees the property comments on its beautiful grounds. The mountain rises above the camp sites with hiking trails leading directly from your site.

Trout Creek Falls

41mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Tent

Bring a tent and fall asleep listening to the crashing of whitewater at this creekside campsite with a private swimming hole and water fall. Accessible via paved, main roads, but with minimal traffic, this is the perfect spot for exploring Western North Carolina’s natural beauty. There is an unoccupied house on the property with parking for up to 2 vehicles. Please remember to leave no trace!

Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

91%

(383)

38mi from Fontana Dam · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

Indigo Eagle Sanctuary is an incredible place to experience the abundance of nature in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our Sanctuary features two main areas: Mountain Tops, or Creekside sites. Immerse yourself in beauty and adventure, with waterfalls, a rushing creek, fishing, and camping. Our creek properties include the Creekside Cabin, and Waterfall Haven (multiple camping site options, with their own areas by the creek). Guests have room to explore the mossy wonderland along Hornbuckle Creek, take a dip in a swimming hole, take an adventure and follow a rough trail (at your own risk) to another waterfall, accessed across the creek, or just kick back and relax. (Note to guests: Trail has not been maintained since last year. Go at your own risk.) Our mountaintop options include Eagle’s Nest and Songbird Campsites. These two sites provide breathtaking, long-range mountain views and epic sunsets. They are great for quick get-aways, with ease of access to main roads/highways. Indigo Eagle Sanctuary Sites are located within a few miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherokee Reservation (museum, shops, dining) and Maggie Valley, a quaint mountain town with more shops, food, and entertainment. Nearest grocery stores are Ingles in Waynesville, or Food Lion in Cherokee. The popular Asheville is about a 50minute drive from our Sanctuary. Plenty to explore here, while being able to unplug and unwind. *Disclaimer The creekside camping involves a road that will require vehicle clearance in order to access campsites. 4wd is not required but adequate vehicle clearance will be necessary as we have received damages from storms.

Mount Sterling Base Camp

100%

(107)

47mi from Fontana Dam · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

It's all about location!! Mount Sterling Base Camp, ran by Falcon Expeditions, is uniquely situated in one of the few remote areas in the Smokies, surrounded by many recreational activities. This is the perfect place to relax and reset or serve as the base camp for your next adventure! This remote camp is run by Falcon Expeditions, who specialize in remote camping experiences. The property is located bordered by the Pisgah National Forest and is next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Big Creek) entrance. The property is off Forest Service Road 288. Within 4 miles, there is an entrance to the Appalachian Trail, rafting along the Pigeon River, the Smoky Mountain 1000 trail, horseback riding trails, 4x4 trails, multiple hiking trails, horseback riding trails, and so much more! Cataloochee Valley, NC and Cosby, TN are both fun drives (all gravel roads) from the camp. We are happy to share more information with you!

Wanderlust Woods

96%

(35)

44mi from Fontana Dam · 10 sites · Lodging

Wanderlust Woods is a hidden 10 acre property hosting a flowing creek, mountain views, and plenty of space to wander yet minutes from adventure activities, fishing, and hiking in the National Park. Perfect for all seeking the glory of the mountains in a unique & immersive setting. We are located in Cocke County Tennessee near the towns of Cosby and Hartford, 10 minutes from the Interstate and situated very near the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The natural beauty of the area is unparalleled with views of the Smokies at almost every turn. Hiking, fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, and ziplining are all within a 10 mile radius of the property. Gatlinburg, TN is a 25 minute drive and Asheville, NC is just over an hour, offering guests options for fun day trips in the area.

Nurture + Nature - Glamping Retreat

100%

(10)

33mi from Fontana Dam · 5 sites · Lodging

Relax. Rejuvenate. Reconnect. It is so important to have a safe space and dedicated time for disconnecting from the daily grind. Nurture + Nature provides our guests with opportunities to recharge their body, mind, and soul with positive energy and reconnect with themselves and nature. The retreat center is located on a small farm in the beautiful mountains in Western North Carolina, where you will be greeted by horses, chickens and Buddy the mini Donkey, everyone's fav! We are surrounded by picturesque views and fresh mountain streams. Accommodations include fully furnished tents with one, two or three beds per tent (the entire retreat center sleeps up to 16 people), electric heater to keep you toasty on chilly nights, large indoor workshop space, rejuvenating warm outdoor showers and plenty of private spaces to nurture in nature. *We clean and disinfect our accommodations and gear after every guest departure. We maintain very high standards of cleanliness and guest safety. Masks are required during group activities, we practice a socially distanced retreat experience.

The Barn at Huffman Creek Retreat

100%

(1)

10mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Lodging

The Barn at Huffman Creek Retreat: A Glamping Paradise Welcome to The Barn at Huffman Creek Retreat, where rustic charm meets modern luxury in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Designed with families in mind, this unique retreat offers a peaceful escape for bonding and creating lasting memories. Ideal for the glamping enthusiast looking to elevate their getaway, The Barn perfectly blends the feel of camping with the comforts of cabin living embracing the very best of indoor-outdoor getaways with a huge covered porch and tons of windows for bringing the fresh air in. A Cozy Haven with Modern Luxuries: Originally built to provide a serene space for families, The Barn has been thoughtfully modified over the years to enhance its elegance and appeal with addition over our over-the-creek porch, covered outdoor cooking space (in addition to the inside kitchen), and creekside fire pit for roasting marshmallows under the stars. Nestled amidst nature, it boasts two cozy loft bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious living area adorned with rustic Pendleton décor. Whether you're relaxing by the wood-burning, potbelly stove or unwinding on the private deck, the soothing sounds of the creek promise tranquility and peace. Nearby Attractions and Adventures: From Huffman Creek, you're just moments away from the cool, secluded waters of Lake Santeetlah. With its mostly undeveloped shoreline, the lake is a haven for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. Reach out to Smoky Mountain Kayak Fishing to plan a perfect day on the water. For thrill-seekers, a short drive to Highway 129 offers the exhilarating experience of driving the 'Tail of the Dragon,' with its 318 curves packed into just 11 miles. Extend your adventure on the Cherohala Skyway, a breathtaking drive through the Cherokee National Forest's mountaintop ridges, known for its stunning vistas and the blooming of the native flame azaleas each June. Embrace the Thrill of the Outdoor: For those seeking adventure, the Nantahala River offers a mix of Class II and III rapids, perfect for both novices and adrenaline junkies. More experienced paddlers can tackle the intense Class IV and V rapids of the Cheoah River. With options for white-water rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking, and horses!

Smoky Mountain Sky Camp - Cosby

100%

(12)

46mi from Fontana Dam · 3 sites · Lodging

Two Great Smoky Mtn National Park entrances are within 8 miles! Leave No Trace mentality and simpler living, where wildlife abounds and zero city lights are visible. Motivation behind the creation of Smoky Mountain Sky Camp is to share with the public an alternative, nature-based vacation inspired by conservation with minimal impact. The treehouses are quiet, secluded, and actually border GSMNP property and Cherokee National Forest land; the Appalachian Trail at Davenport Gap is ¾ mile away. Nearby GSMNP entrances: Big Creek is 2.5 mi, Cosby at 8 miles. Only 3 to the Pigeon River whitewater section, and accessible to hundreds of miles of mountain biking and hiking roads/trails. Each treehouse was built by hand by hosts (husband/wife team) Anthony and Brenna. A long history of camping and working in the outdoor recreation industry inspired a design to intentionally interact with nature. By utilizing rain collection, solar power generation, composting toiletries, outdoor cooking, each treehouse is completely off-grid. Rest from your adventures on the comfy, queen and full-sized beds. A spacious queen bottom bunk and lofted double mattress can accommodate four adult campers. All bed linens and pillows are provided. The treehouses offer private, indoor bathing and toilet facilities. Every treehouse is equipped with a propane-heated, rain-collection shower and maintenance-free, vented composting toilet. All bath towels/washcloths, plus shampoo/wash are provided in each treehouse bathroom. You can dine al fresco in the trees! The kitchenette boasts wide concrete countertop table dining with four stools, two-burner propane cooktop, potable water and drain sink, and separate propane grill. Provided cookware includes pots, pans, cooking/grill tools and utensils, cutting board and knife. There are complete place settings for 4 glampers, plus coffee percolator and mugs (bring ground coffee.) There is no refrigerator, bring your own cooler and ice. Unique, spectacular views of nature are seen from each treehouse. Snowbird Mountain to North, Mt Sterling to East, Chestnut Mountain to West and Mt Cammerer to South. NEW for 2025: Short loop hiking trails onsite directly from each treehouse. Maps and directions provided inside the House Manual within each treehouse.

Public campgrounds near Fontana Dam

83%

(3)

Cable Cove Recreation Area

4.1mi from Fontana Dam · 26 sites · in Nantahala National Forest

88%

(4)

Pine Ridge Road NCSR #1147

4.6mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

Bear Creek Hunters Camp FDR#62

7.1mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(2)

Horse Cove Campground

7.1mi from Fontana Dam · 18 sites · in Nantahala National Forest

Snowbird Backcountry Area

7.1mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(4)

Rattler Ford Campground

7.3mi from Fontana Dam · 4 sites · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(5)

Joyce Kilmer Road NCSR #1134

7.5mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(1)

Long Hungry FDR #2586

7.9mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(3)

Santeetlah Creek FDR #81

9.7mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

Wolf Laurel Hunters Camp

10mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

Swan Cabin

11mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

Panther Creek FDR #2604B

12mi from Fontana Dam · 1 site · in Nantahala National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

I

Irene

3 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

This campsite offers ample room for any size family or camping group. The grounds are safe, clean and comfortable, with electric hookups, hot showers, and a toilet—all while being surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of untouched wilderness. Being here brought back childhood memories of exploring and charting unknown territory. The peaceful waterfall sings a gentle lullaby each night, carrying you into the deepest sleep. There is truly no campsite that compares. My only complaint? I lost track of time. I enjoyed myself so much and felt so disconnected from the outside world that days effortlessly blended into nights before it was suddenly time to leave. This was my parents’ first-ever camping trip, and the host did not disappoint! He was readily available to help them hook up their new RV and made sure they felt at home. By the end of the stay, they felt like pros thanks to his guidance. You can’t go wrong with this site—book now and make those special memories. We are so glad we did!

M

Mark

3 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

5 nights at Secluded Waterfall Haven

Amazing waterfall views. Great family camping spot with room for everyone. Tents and campers have plenty of spots to set up. Very secluded yet close to things you may have forgotten.

Connie

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Most unique place to stay. Warm comfortable beds, communal kitchen and Fire pit.. I would recommend a stay here for an experience.

B

Billy

3 weeks ago

29 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Harmony Glen

Had a great time at harmony Glenn was very quite and peaceful, it was a little tight for my 29ft travel trailer I was kind of skeptical if I was going to fit when I first pulled in but turned out to be a great site.

Tent site surrounded by giant, mossy boulders.

Shane

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Secluded Waterfall Haven

Everything was amazing from the site, the creek, and the waterfall.

Nick

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

An amazing camping site! What a cool adventurous place. The waterfalls were breath taking, and the sounds too. Note that the sites look a bit different than the old photos from the listing, in a bit of disrepair, but it didn't take away from the awesome place. Will definitely be back!

K

Kelly

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

This place was exactly what we needed. With some love this place could be absolutely beautiful. Still would Highly recommend. We made it in about 2AM with no problems. AWD recommended.

O

Owen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Harmony Glen

Don't think, just book. The beauty of this place is what drew me to it. The kindness, and warmth June brings to this place is what makes you stay. Quite a magical stay, with the sweetest dogs and beautiful grounds to explore. Placed perfectly to explore surrounding hikes and waterfalls. June is an excellent host with a wealth of information about the area and history behind her place. If you're looking for somewhere quiet, clean, with excellent stargazing, book it.

S

Steven

November 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magical Mountain Resorts

This place was really nice. Great for kids. They had a blast. The host were amazing. Not one bad thing to say about it. Stayed 11/7/25 - 11/10/2025. Will definitely stay there again.

B

Brenda

November 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Magical Mountain Resorts

The hosts are very helpful and knowledgeable. The thoroughness of plan for the resort and level of detail is truly remarkable!

C

Caitlin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Gateway to the Smokies

Well maintained and easy to find spot with directions provided by host. Campsite is also extremely close to many different activities and stores/gas stations. The street noise and light pollution are definitely a huge downside if are looking for a peaceful campsite in the woods or the chance to see any stars. I woke up multiple different times during the night su

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John

November 2025

11 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

Beautiful view. Toilet, shower, water spigot and electricity were very appreciate. The camp site was clean and very well setup. Would stay at again!

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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!

Site #1 Creekside has a 16' tent pad, picnic table, rock fire pit and a park style charcoal grill.

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Megan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gateway to the Smokies

Michael came through for me for a last minute request on my impromptu road trip! The spot was perfect for what I needed - a convenient and affordable spot to put my tent and get a good sleep. The tent pad was level and comfortable and 2 picnic tables let me spread out my stuff. I will say the site is right off the highway but I'm a sound sleeper and it didn't bother me. The sound of the creek was nice.

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Amy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gateway to the Smokies

Michael’s Hipcamp was perfect for our weekend of hiking in the Smokies. We had a beautiful spot to put our tent with plenty of privacy. The fire ring was great for our needs, and we loved the thoughtfulness of the grill, even though we didn’t use it. I’m always happy when there is a picnic table at a tent site, so having one was definitely a bonus:). We did hear traffic because it is close to the highway, but it didn’t bother us. (Also, it doesn’t “feel” like you are close to the highway.) Overall, this was a very good Hipcamp experience and we recommend!!

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Jeff

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

Most definitely a little piece of heaven! We were apprehensive booking it because we thought it had to be too good to be true but nothing could be further from the truth. It was absolutely gorgeous, very spacious & very private, even with another camper at the creek site. Richard was a very gracious & helpful host. Highly recommend!

Mirka

October 2025

7 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Secluded Waterfall Haven

We've been waiting for so long for our trip to Waterfall Heaven, and when our time to pack was getting closer, the weather was showing rain for the whole week we were supposed to be there... That was a little discouraging because we camp with 8 dogs and 2 crazy boys in a tent and I was worried everything will be way too wet and dirty and cold but I was not going to let this gem of a place go 😂 and what an amazing beautiful and serene place this spot is! The weather didn't matter, we had fun and the boys were in the water every day (even in 48°f), the dogs had so much space to run and sniff and explore and we even got a chance to do some activities in nearby towns (Stumphouse Tunnel in nearby city of Wallhala, SC and Foxfire Museum near the campsite was amazing)! What saved us was the fact we were able to put our 10x18 tent under the huge wooden gazebo right by the waterfall (you need to remove the tables first and they are heavy!) and that kept our tent dry inside and out. The cooking area under the smaller gazebo was perfect for us preparing meals in the rain (we've put one of the tables there and were able to stay dry while eating). The hike up the hill to see the bigger waterfall is worth the view and not having cellphone reception or internet at the campsite was the best break I secretly wished for 😂 We have another trip booked in March 2026 and I'm hoping I'll be able to also score a week in summer 2027! Thank you DeeDee for having us!

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Savannah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gateway to the Smokies

Great space for camping! It is right off the road so there is some traffic noise but the stars were incredible!