12 Best A-Frame Cabins Near Franklin, NC, US 2025

Nestled in the Nantahala National Forest, Franklin is home to tall trees, mountain peaks, and waterfalls with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that wrap the town. Explore the infamous Appalachian and Bartram Trails, whitewater raft through wicked waters, or scour the lands for rocky treasures. Known as the Gem Capital of the World, Franklin features many mines filled with sapphires, rubies, and other precious stones waiting to be mined. Campers are welcomed throughout the seasons to campsites, glampsites, cabin rentals, and mountain retreats year-round. Whether searching for summertime sun or hoping for snowy slopes, Franklin campers indulge in this nature-filled oasis.

99% (308)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nestled in the Nantahala National Forest, Franklin is home to tall trees, mountain peaks, and waterfalls with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that wrap the town. Explore the infamous Appalachian and Bartram Trails, whitewater raft through wicked waters, or scour the lands for rocky treasures. Known as the Gem Capital of the World, Franklin features many mines filled with sapphires, rubies, and other precious stones waiting to be mined. Campers are welcomed throughout the seasons to campsites, glampsites, cabin rentals, and mountain retreats year-round. Whether searching for summertime sun or hoping for snowy slopes, Franklin campers indulge in this nature-filled oasis.

99% (308)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Heart Center

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(223)

34mi from Franklin · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Robbinsville, NC

The Heart Center 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. 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, and relaxing 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.

2. Nero Coffee Camping Spot

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(157)

46mi from Franklin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hendersonville, NC

Nero Coffee is a coffee brand based in the mountains on Western North Carolina, so when you camp at Nero Coffee + Camp you can enjoy a great cup of coffee (free coffee in my "coffee shed" on property!) and enjoy a relaxing spot in the mountains. Nero Coffee's mission is to create connection between people through sharing great coffee and conversation outdoors. I started Nero Coffee in 2019 and purchased 6 acres near DuPont State Forest to share my land and create my own coffee campground to continue growing the mission. Update for 2024! Nero Coffee's Camping Spot has three ways to camp. Site 1: Glamping in my custom built (and way too adorable) mini A frame cabin. This cabin is tucked in the rhododendrons for complete privacy. Enjoy the super comfy bed and unique lifting side door to let the outdoors in :) or Site 2: Camping with room for up to 8 guests. There are multiple sites and so much room to spread out for groups up to 8 people. This year I am only opening tent camping for one group at a time so you can experience the mountains in the most peaceful setting. The upper camping area has plenty of flat areas for vans, cars, trucks and tents, and if you don't mind carrying our tent down the hill, the lower creekside camping area is THE PERFECT stargazing spot. There's plenty of room to set up any size tent down there, too. basically, You have the campground to make yourself totally at home. Site 3: Simple Car Camping Spot - Just want a spot to pull over camp for the night close toDuPont State Forest? We can make that happen. No tents allowed here, but it's a peaceful alternative to a cracker barrel parking lot. ----- Once you set up camp feel free to visit the Coffee Shed - It's a small shed on the property by the house that has everything you need to make a great cup of coffee. Coffee is always free. :) I have fire pits, tables an, if I am home, I have a super cute corgi that roams around the property throughout the day. If you spot me outside feel free to say hi or ask any questions about the area. I love helping guests find new places to explore. You will be about 8 minutes to DuPont State Forest (my favorite hiking and biking area) which has miles and miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails. The entrance to Pisgah National Forest is about 15 minutes away as well so it's a convenient drive to visit the forest and drive up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. I also own a company that guides "coffee hikes" to local waterfalls in DuPont State forest. You can find more about that in the photo descriptions. :) Please note!! My road up to my driveway is steep and bumpy. It’s only 0.3 miles up but bumpy. You don't need four wheel drive but higher ground clearance is recommended. (I have had small cars make it up but it is a bit intimidating if you are not used to driving in the mountains). if you have a small car just go slow. :) ------- Larger group? Want an indoor bath and shower?? If you are planning a larger group camping retreat and want to book the entire campground (including the main house with indoor shower, restrooms, and full kitchen and spare bedroom) I can make that happen for $500 a night. It's honestly the perfect spot for private, group camping and glamping up to 15 people. Just send me your date request and I will share a link to book if your dates are available. (2 night minimum for all full campground requests)

3. Hidden Acres Mountain Camping

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(59)

27mi from Franklin · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Balsam Grove, NC

Find a calmer space to get away from the busy, loud, and hectic environments of life where you can relax and unwind and find tranquility in nature. Our 12 acre property borders the Pisgah National Forest. Enjoy serenity in the woods surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, crisp meadows, a sparkling cool stream and fresh mountain air, all while retreating in your cozy and private camping area. Bathhouse with hot showers, shampoo, conditioner & body wash. WiFi. Located in the heart of the Pisgah National and Nantahala Forests, the Balsam Grove community is known for its secluded trails & waterfalls. There are a plethora of activities to do in the nearby surrounding area. Explore in adventures like hiking, cycling, mountain biking, canoeing, tubing, fly-fishing and kayaking. Transylvania county is also known as “The Land of Waterfalls”, where you’ll find over 250 spectacular waterfalls. Just 9 miles away, take in a day of scenic beauty up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’ll discover amazing long-range views of the Appalachian Mountain Range, stunning waterfalls, fields of wildflowers & trails, over-looks and elevations that reach more than 5,000 feet. Depending on the time of year you are visiting, you can catch a floral show as the seasons change. Afternoon picnics and sunsets on the Parkway are highly recommended as well as star gazing on a clear night is indubitably hypnotizing and will leave you awestruck!! Just a few nearby waterfalls under a 15 minute drive from campsite: 3.7 mi- Living Waters. Three easy waterfalls all within a short walk. French Broad Falls, Mill Shoals Falls, and Bird Rock Falls. 7.5 mi- Courthouse Falls. 45 ft. waterfall that plunges into a deep pool. Perfect spot for a dip on a hot summer’s afternoon. Ten minute fairly easy hike from trailhead. 7.7 mi- Paradise Falls Trailhead. One of the best secret swimming holes! A magnificent oasis. Challenging and steep hike, but worth it. 11 mi- Upper Dill Falls & Lower Dill Falls. 50 ft. Waterfall (lower) with just a short easy hike. Upper Dill falls is beautiful and tucked into a lush cove. 7.9 mi- Wolf Creek Lake. Better known to the locals as Wolf Lake, this 183 acre high elevation lake offers spectacular scenery and great swimming, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding.

4. Glamping Domes & A-Frame

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46mi from Franklin · 5 sites · Lodging · Newport, TN

Welcome to our luxurious glamping dome nestled in the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offering a secluded and peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. Our dome combines the comforts of a cozy stay with the awe-inspiring surroundings of the great outdoors. Located amidst lush greenery and towering trees, our dome provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of the mountains greeting you each morning. For adventure seekers, there are ample opportunities for river rafting and hiking right at your doorstep. Spend your days exploring the numerous trails that wind through the mountains, leading to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. After a day of outdoor exploration, return to your dome for a restful night's sleep under the starry sky. Our glamping dome is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including a plush bed, modern bathroom, and a cozy seating area where you can relax and unwind after a day of adventure. And for those chilly mountain nights, cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a solo adventure in nature, our glamping dome in the Smoky Mountains offers the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Book your stay with us today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.

5. Lake Hartwell A-Frame Cabin

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(3)

49mi from Franklin · 1 site · Lodging · Fair Play, SC

Tucked beneath the trees and just 3 minutes from beautiful Lake Hartwell, this cozy A-frame offers the perfect blend of rustic escape and modern comfort. Whether you’re here to unplug or just breathe in some forest air, this cabin is your peaceful home base. Sip your morning coffee on the spacious deck, challenge your travel buddy to a game of foosball in the screened-in porch/game room, or head down to the nearby dock for a day by the water. Inside, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed space with warm wood tones, cozy textures, and everything you need to relax after a day outdoors. Ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for a unique and peaceful getaway near the lake. Come get cozy!

Stories from the community

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Dave

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Glamping Domes & A-Frame

The view is the star of the show. Add a hot tub and fire pit and that’s a bonus. Inside is very comfortable and cozy. The kitchen setup was adequate. It could use a toaster/counter top convection oven. The grill outside worked well however. Also the fridge was a good size for the 4 nights we stayed. Google maps ends short of your destination so getting there was a bit confusing. We were lucky Ravi was on sight to escort us. Hopefully better signage will be added. The road is a bit rough but manageable for the last 1/4 mile or so. Again, once there, it’s all about the view and the isolation. Shower was roomy and nice. The bed was huge and comfy. The geo-domes were close but it all felt private enough and our neighbors were quiet. It’s close to the Smokies which was our draw but not much else. Fine by us as we didn’t even leave the premises for a day and a half. Did I mention the view?

Early November, 60s, cawing crows and plenty of sunshine! 🐦‍⬛🍁🌞

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Dionne

November 2025

1 night at Nero Coffee Camping Spot

My husband and I enjoyed the peace and sunshine at the A-frame! Directions getting there and to parking were easy, just noting that the road itself (last two minutes of driving) is a bit gnarly, but manageable (driving a RAV). And everything in the cabin felt secluded and sweet! We're grateful for the coffee and treat, as well as the noon checkout to fully enjoy the solitude of the surroundings. Would stay again!

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Heather

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Nero Coffee Camping Spot

Super cute. Loved the location and privacy. We loved the hidden gnomes!!

Olivia

September 2025

1 night at Hidden Acres Mountain Camping

This place was absolutely magical! It was very clean and cozy! There was a cute little pond with fish in the greenhouse! It's a peaceful secluded site with a nice fire pit, running water, a grill, a mini fridge/freezer, a coffee machine, and a bathroom with a shower! Georgianna made this place feel like home with all the little touches! She's an amazing host, and I would recommend this place to everyone! Plus it's just a short drive to so many beautiful waterfalls and the Blue Ridge Parkway!

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Nat

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Lake Hartwell A-Frame Cabin

It was an amazing spot that provided me and my crush an unforgettable experience.

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Alyssa

July 2025

3 nights at Nero Coffee Camping Spot

The little A frame was absolutely adorable, quiet, and intimate! Would absolutely stay again ❤️ Katlyn is very clear and timely with communication. Thanks for sharing your piece of magic!

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Thomas

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Hidden Acres Mountain Camping

Perfect, mystical feeling hideaway on the property. Older grandkids enjoyed, with the added benefit of rain protection while grandpa tented it in Pine Woods. Only a few steps between the sites. Very well done!

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Bonnie

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Lake Hartwell A-Frame Cabin

This little A frame is adorable and much more spacious that appears from the outside. The front porch and screened in back porch with games are adorable and provides even more space to chill. We loved how close it was to the lake and only 15 mins from Ingles for supplies. Everything functioned great in the property and communication with Russika was stellar. Highly recommend!

Olsen

June 2025

With pets

2 nights at Nero Coffee Camping Spot

Amazing adorable A-frame! Would stay again, super responsive host

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Penny

May 2025

3 nights at Hidden Acres Mountain Camping

Hidden Acres is truly a magical place to experience. So much thought and creativity has gone into each and every campsite. Spring Haven is the second site I have had the pleasure to stayed at. I appreciate our hosts for being so nice and welcoming to us. We had such a lovely time and have never relaxed more during our camping trips as we did this past weekend. The campsites are very spacious and not too close to each other so you can definitely have privacy if you want. I enjoyed the free range chickens that were always happy to greet you as you make your way to the bath house. The bath houses were always clean and are very nicely built as well. We also enjoyed feeding the fish in the water feature pond at Spring Haven. They were fun to watch. If you get a chance to experience Spring Haven or any sites available at Hidden Acres you won’t regret it. One of the best camps I have had!

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Michael

May 2025

1 night at Hidden Acres Mountain Camping

Wonderful greenhouse shelter! Love all the mystical touches around. Great amenities for a campground and the bathhouse is private, modern rustic, and super clean.

Meg

March 2025

1 night at Nero Coffee Camping Spot

Katelyn thought of everything. She was very communicative and thoughtful. We loved how the A-frame was tucked away and felt magical. Absolutely LOVED it!!!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

A-frame cabins near Franklin guide

Where to go

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Blending the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an action-packed nature playground north of Franklin. Featuring frontcountry and backcountry campsites, group camping, and horse campsites, campers can hike or horseback ride the surrounding trails from base camp. Cyclists will need to stick to the lower Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, and Oconaluftee River Trail, or enjoy the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road. On any adventure, keep a lookout for black bears, elk, deer, and warblers.

Gorges State Park

Head east of Franklin to Gorges State Park for an epic environment of rivers, waterfalls, and gorges. Offering multiple routes to travel, consider the south route towards Highlands, NC and make a pit stop at Bust Your Butt Falls—a roadside waterfall popular for swimming, sliding, and cliff jumping. Upon arrival, choose from cabins, tent and backpacking campsites, or RV sites (some with hookups). Known for its backcountry recreation, Gorges State Park backpackers and horseback riders can be found forging through the 8,000 acres of temperate rainforest landscapes.

Nantahala National Forest

Step into the largest nearby national forest just moments from Franklin. Offering on-site campgrounds with tent sites, cabin rentals, RV campsites, and group camping, Nantahala National Forest provides serenity year-round. Home to over 600 miles of trails, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicles are popular throughout the area. With winding rivers and plenty of waterfalls, the forest also hosts fishing, hunting, and white water rafting. Picnic areas throughout the park make this the perfect place for a single-day trip or multi-day getaway.

When to go

Franklin’s unforgettable environment provides campers with adventure every season. Late spring to early fall sees warmer temperatures ideal for tenting, backpacking, and RVs without heat. Reaching average highs over 80°F in the summer months and average lows dropping to the 40s in the shoulder months, campers should plan ahead to enjoy some of the area’s water activities comfortably. The winter months bring highs around 50°F and drop below freezing overnight, so cold weather camping experience or cabin rentals are recommended this time of year.