The best dog-friendly cabin rentals near Franklin, North Carolina

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.

98% (3.5K) • 201 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklin

Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

1. Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

98%

(25)

47mi from Franklin · 2 sites

New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 Welcome to Creekside Cabin, just 0.25 miles from Lake Hartwell. Tucked deep in the woods, this cozy yet spacious cabin blends comfort with nature, offering 500 sq ft indoors plus 500 sq ft of multi-level outdoor living. Sleep soundly in two king beds or the loft bedroom with a private balcony overlooking the trees. Inside features an open floor plan, stocked kitchen, and plenty of entertainment. Outside is where this spot shines—three levels of decking with a hot tub, fire pit, grill, outdoor TV, covered porch, and daybed. Perfect for campfires, lake days, stargazing, and unplugging in nature. Why Guests Love It 1. “Hands-down the best organized, cleanest… cabin I’ve ever rented.” 2. "Beautiful outdoor scenery and hot tub was perfect.” 3. "Such a quaint spot to unplug from the world." 4. “Cozy, comfortable… great night" EXPLORE NEARBY - 1 mi (Community Access) → Lake Hartwell - 17 mins → Tugaloo State Park - 25 mins → Lake Hartwell State Park - 34 mins → Chau Ram County Park - 35 mins → Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari - 36 mins → Victoria Bryant State Park - 40 mins → Tallulah Gorge State Park and Waterfalls - 45 mins → Riley Moore Falls SECLUDED YET CONVENIENT LOCATION - Creek & wooded view - Free boat launches, beaches, & fishing/swimming docks less than 10 minutes away - Access to community amenities: dock on Lake Hartwell, gazebos, & picnic tables less than 5 minutes away - Guidebook with nearby recommendations provided ADDED FOR COMFORT - Instant-hot, tankless water heater - Smart lock for secure and convenient access - Smart thermostat for central heat & AC - Custom bath robes - Luggage racks - 2 Yoga mats with carrying straps - Hammock - Myriad of games and entertainment - Hardwired grill, so no need for tank swaps IDEAL FOR COUPLES - Romantic setting, surrounded by trees for privacy - King bed - Custom bath robes - Wine, champagne, & cappuccino glasses - Moscow mule & coffee mugs - Chilled beer steins - Outdoor daybed with 55” smart TV - Hot tub - Fire pit *THIS CABIN IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN* PETS LOVE IT TOO

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$112

/ night

Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

2. Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

100%

(2)

7.6mi from Franklin · 3 sites

Beautiful cabin listing! Come and enjoy trout fishing on 1000 feet of our private, stocked, creek. The "Bear's Den" is a one bedroom, rustic, unique, and cozy cabin, located in the Great Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. It is the perfect getaway for couples looking to escape city life, and unwind. The inside is rustic, with barn wood accents. The creek, is a short walk from the cabin. Appalachian Trail and waterfalls nearby. The space Barn wood shutters and accents, pebble stone tiled bathroom floor, glass shower doors, cozy, outdoor fire pit and chairs, outdoor park model charcoal grill, hot tub complete with lights, outdoor dining table for two in the screened in hot tub area, wifi, and an outdoor fire pit. Guest access Follow the “Bear’s Den” signs to the parking area. Other things to note Inquire about our new creek-front, two bedroom, with hot tub, on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/wayahcreekcabinswatersedge. Eagles’s Nest Treehouse, hot tub, wifi, fire pit, creek front is on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/treehousehollow Please read the House Manual before booking. We have a firm check in/check policy: 4:00pm is check in, 10:00am is check out. We cannot allow cats due to allergies. We do allow 1 dog, please message us with any questions. There is a $50 pet fee. Please close the hot tub after use and turn the lights and the jets off. The temp shouldn’t be raised above 104 degrees. We have bundles of firewood for sale for $8.00/bundle located on the other side of the barnwood wall. Please place cash in the little antique mailbox located above the firewood, on the wall. Don’t leave trash outside overnight due to wildlife. Please place trash on the other side of the barnwood wall to be picked up in the morning. We provide 6 towels, washcloths, hand towels, dish towels, blankets, dish soap, paper towels (1), toilet paper (4 rolls), disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, hot tub towels, small pet clean up bags, outdoor trash can for pet clean up, small hotel size shampoo and conditioners, lotions, soap, hair blow dryer, outdoor fire pit, bundled fire wood for sale, and a charcoal grill. We hope you enjoy your stay here, and please message us if you need anything. We are willing to engage with guests and answer any questions you may have, while still ensuring your privacy during your stay.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$200

/ night

Stay Nantahala Cabins

3. Stay Nantahala Cabins

15mi from Franklin · 4 sites

Our spacious Nantahala cabin rentals and luxury yurt rentals at Stay Nantahala are on beautiful Nantahala Lake among the Great Smoky Mountains. We are between Franklin and Murphy, North Carolina at an elevation of over 3,000 feet. We are also not far from big cities, sitting an hour and a half west of Asheville and two and a half hours northwest of Atlanta. Each of our luxury yurts can sleep up to four people as they each have two bedrooms. If you want to try glamping, our luxury yurts can serve as the ideal setting for any outing. All of our Nantahala cabin rentals surround the idyllic Nantahala Lake, offering a deep connection with the surrounding natural beauty. Cabins come in a variety of sizes so they can accommodate however many you bring on your Nantahala adventure. The cabins offer a lot of amenities aimed at making your stay with us a memorable experience. Regardless of your choice, you'll be in a prime spot to enjoy the natural beauty of western North Carolina.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$395

/ night

Nantahala Cabins

4. Nantahala Cabins

100%

(7)

15mi from Franklin · 9 sites

Vacation cabin rentals in the mountains of North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains in the Nantahala Gorge, Bryson City, North Carolina on Highway 19/74 West, 2 miles West of Highway 28 North, 2.5 miles East of the take-out of the Nantahala River. We are between Andrews/Murphy to the West and Bryson City to the East. Nearby attractions include white water rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and skiing on Fontana Lake, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, antiquing, and the Cherokee Indian Reservation.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$175

/ night

Peaceful Cabin with Hot Tub

5. Peaceful Cabin with Hot Tub

100%

(1)

16mi from Franklin · 1 site

The cabin is secluded yet easily accessible with any vehicle Kayak and Paddle board for guest use! Welcome to our cozy cabin in the woods offering privacy, an outdoor firepit and hot tub. All within minutes of unlimited outdoor recreation. Spend your time relaxing on the deck, visiting the casino or adventuring to the outdoors with hiking, biking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, zip lining and river tubing all nearby. The space Relax and unwind in the hot tub surrounded by tall trees offering shade and privacy. Off the deck you'll find a firepit for making smores and telling stories into the night. Enjoy a home cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen or cook it outdoors on the propane grill. The open loft has a king size bed and the downstairs bedroom has a queen size. Both bathrooms have a shower/tub, one bathroom is in the loft and the other is downstairs. There are Roku TVs in the living room and both bedrooms. Kayak an inflatable stand up paddle board available for guest use. Finger lake is just down the street and as easily accessible for kayaking and paddle boarding. Nearby Attractions: Nantahala Outdoor Center 7 mi Fontana Lake / Almond Boat Ramp 3.5 mi Downtown Bryson City 12 Mi Tsali Trailhead 5 mi Harrah's Cherokee Casino 23 mi Fingerlake Recreation Area 2 mi Deep Creek Tubing 14 mi Great Smokey Mountain National Park 15mi Great Smokey Mountains Railroad 12mi The Polar Express Train Experience 12 mi Blueridge Parkway 24 mi Tail of the Dragon 32 mi Nantahala Outdoor Center offers rafting, zip lines and kayaking for those adventurous enough. It is only about 10 minutes away. For a more relaxing day, grab your floats and a picnic and drive just a few minutes down the road to Finger lake where you can float the day away. River Tubing down Deep Creek is fun for all ages, tube rentals and shuttles can be found at Deep Creek. There is truly so much to explore! Guest access This is a private residence with no one onsite other than your group. You will have access the the entire home and outdoor space. There is a locked supply closet in the loft. Other things to note - The cabin is heated by electric baseboards as well as a propane wall unit in the living area - The A/C unit in the loft window cools the loft as well as the living area and there is a second unit in the downstairs bedroom, as well as ceiling fans in all the rooms. - No indoor fires - Please note this is a remote location and while wifi access is available it cannot always be guaranteed.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$135

/ night

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.

98% (3.5K) • 201 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklin

Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

1. Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

98%

(25)

47mi from Franklin · 2 sites

New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 Welcome to Creekside Cabin, just 0.25 miles from Lake Hartwell. Tucked deep in the woods, this cozy yet spacious cabin blends comfort with nature, offering 500 sq ft indoors plus 500 sq ft of multi-level outdoor living. Sleep soundly in two king beds or the loft bedroom with a private balcony overlooking the trees. Inside features an open floor plan, stocked kitchen, and plenty of entertainment. Outside is where this spot shines—three levels of decking with a hot tub, fire pit, grill, outdoor TV, covered porch, and daybed. Perfect for campfires, lake days, stargazing, and unplugging in nature. Why Guests Love It 1. “Hands-down the best organized, cleanest… cabin I’ve ever rented.” 2. "Beautiful outdoor scenery and hot tub was perfect.” 3. "Such a quaint spot to unplug from the world." 4. “Cozy, comfortable… great night" EXPLORE NEARBY - 1 mi (Community Access) → Lake Hartwell - 17 mins → Tugaloo State Park - 25 mins → Lake Hartwell State Park - 34 mins → Chau Ram County Park - 35 mins → Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari - 36 mins → Victoria Bryant State Park - 40 mins → Tallulah Gorge State Park and Waterfalls - 45 mins → Riley Moore Falls SECLUDED YET CONVENIENT LOCATION - Creek & wooded view - Free boat launches, beaches, & fishing/swimming docks less than 10 minutes away - Access to community amenities: dock on Lake Hartwell, gazebos, & picnic tables less than 5 minutes away - Guidebook with nearby recommendations provided ADDED FOR COMFORT - Instant-hot, tankless water heater - Smart lock for secure and convenient access - Smart thermostat for central heat & AC - Custom bath robes - Luggage racks - 2 Yoga mats with carrying straps - Hammock - Myriad of games and entertainment - Hardwired grill, so no need for tank swaps IDEAL FOR COUPLES - Romantic setting, surrounded by trees for privacy - King bed - Custom bath robes - Wine, champagne, & cappuccino glasses - Moscow mule & coffee mugs - Chilled beer steins - Outdoor daybed with 55” smart TV - Hot tub - Fire pit *THIS CABIN IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN* PETS LOVE IT TOO

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$112

/ night

Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

2. Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

100%

(2)

7.6mi from Franklin · 3 sites

Beautiful cabin listing! Come and enjoy trout fishing on 1000 feet of our private, stocked, creek. The "Bear's Den" is a one bedroom, rustic, unique, and cozy cabin, located in the Great Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. It is the perfect getaway for couples looking to escape city life, and unwind. The inside is rustic, with barn wood accents. The creek, is a short walk from the cabin. Appalachian Trail and waterfalls nearby. The space Barn wood shutters and accents, pebble stone tiled bathroom floor, glass shower doors, cozy, outdoor fire pit and chairs, outdoor park model charcoal grill, hot tub complete with lights, outdoor dining table for two in the screened in hot tub area, wifi, and an outdoor fire pit. Guest access Follow the “Bear’s Den” signs to the parking area. Other things to note Inquire about our new creek-front, two bedroom, with hot tub, on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/wayahcreekcabinswatersedge. Eagles’s Nest Treehouse, hot tub, wifi, fire pit, creek front is on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/treehousehollow Please read the House Manual before booking. We have a firm check in/check policy: 4:00pm is check in, 10:00am is check out. We cannot allow cats due to allergies. We do allow 1 dog, please message us with any questions. There is a $50 pet fee. Please close the hot tub after use and turn the lights and the jets off. The temp shouldn’t be raised above 104 degrees. We have bundles of firewood for sale for $8.00/bundle located on the other side of the barnwood wall. Please place cash in the little antique mailbox located above the firewood, on the wall. Don’t leave trash outside overnight due to wildlife. Please place trash on the other side of the barnwood wall to be picked up in the morning. We provide 6 towels, washcloths, hand towels, dish towels, blankets, dish soap, paper towels (1), toilet paper (4 rolls), disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, hot tub towels, small pet clean up bags, outdoor trash can for pet clean up, small hotel size shampoo and conditioners, lotions, soap, hair blow dryer, outdoor fire pit, bundled fire wood for sale, and a charcoal grill. We hope you enjoy your stay here, and please message us if you need anything. We are willing to engage with guests and answer any questions you may have, while still ensuring your privacy during your stay.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$200

/ night

Stay Nantahala Cabins

3. Stay Nantahala Cabins

15mi from Franklin · 4 sites

Our spacious Nantahala cabin rentals and luxury yurt rentals at Stay Nantahala are on beautiful Nantahala Lake among the Great Smoky Mountains. We are between Franklin and Murphy, North Carolina at an elevation of over 3,000 feet. We are also not far from big cities, sitting an hour and a half west of Asheville and two and a half hours northwest of Atlanta. Each of our luxury yurts can sleep up to four people as they each have two bedrooms. If you want to try glamping, our luxury yurts can serve as the ideal setting for any outing. All of our Nantahala cabin rentals surround the idyllic Nantahala Lake, offering a deep connection with the surrounding natural beauty. Cabins come in a variety of sizes so they can accommodate however many you bring on your Nantahala adventure. The cabins offer a lot of amenities aimed at making your stay with us a memorable experience. Regardless of your choice, you'll be in a prime spot to enjoy the natural beauty of western North Carolina.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$395

/ night

Nantahala Cabins

4. Nantahala Cabins

100%

(7)

15mi from Franklin · 9 sites

Vacation cabin rentals in the mountains of North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains in the Nantahala Gorge, Bryson City, North Carolina on Highway 19/74 West, 2 miles West of Highway 28 North, 2.5 miles East of the take-out of the Nantahala River. We are between Andrews/Murphy to the West and Bryson City to the East. Nearby attractions include white water rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and skiing on Fontana Lake, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, antiquing, and the Cherokee Indian Reservation.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$175

/ night

Peaceful Cabin with Hot Tub

5. Peaceful Cabin with Hot Tub

100%

(1)

16mi from Franklin · 1 site

The cabin is secluded yet easily accessible with any vehicle Kayak and Paddle board for guest use! Welcome to our cozy cabin in the woods offering privacy, an outdoor firepit and hot tub. All within minutes of unlimited outdoor recreation. Spend your time relaxing on the deck, visiting the casino or adventuring to the outdoors with hiking, biking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, zip lining and river tubing all nearby. The space Relax and unwind in the hot tub surrounded by tall trees offering shade and privacy. Off the deck you'll find a firepit for making smores and telling stories into the night. Enjoy a home cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen or cook it outdoors on the propane grill. The open loft has a king size bed and the downstairs bedroom has a queen size. Both bathrooms have a shower/tub, one bathroom is in the loft and the other is downstairs. There are Roku TVs in the living room and both bedrooms. Kayak an inflatable stand up paddle board available for guest use. Finger lake is just down the street and as easily accessible for kayaking and paddle boarding. Nearby Attractions: Nantahala Outdoor Center 7 mi Fontana Lake / Almond Boat Ramp 3.5 mi Downtown Bryson City 12 Mi Tsali Trailhead 5 mi Harrah's Cherokee Casino 23 mi Fingerlake Recreation Area 2 mi Deep Creek Tubing 14 mi Great Smokey Mountain National Park 15mi Great Smokey Mountains Railroad 12mi The Polar Express Train Experience 12 mi Blueridge Parkway 24 mi Tail of the Dragon 32 mi Nantahala Outdoor Center offers rafting, zip lines and kayaking for those adventurous enough. It is only about 10 minutes away. For a more relaxing day, grab your floats and a picnic and drive just a few minutes down the road to Finger lake where you can float the day away. River Tubing down Deep Creek is fun for all ages, tube rentals and shuttles can be found at Deep Creek. There is truly so much to explore! Guest access This is a private residence with no one onsite other than your group. You will have access the the entire home and outdoor space. There is a locked supply closet in the loft. Other things to note - The cabin is heated by electric baseboards as well as a propane wall unit in the living area - The A/C unit in the loft window cools the loft as well as the living area and there is a second unit in the downstairs bedroom, as well as ceiling fans in all the rooms. - No indoor fires - Please note this is a remote location and while wifi access is available it cannot always be guaranteed.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$135

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Kiara

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

We had such a wonderful stay at this cabin! It felt like a peaceful retreat tucked away in nature. The cabin was spotless, cozy, and thoughtfully set up with all the amenities for a relaxing getaway. The kitchen was well stocked with everything needed to cook meals easily, the WiFi worked great, jacuzzi was a nice bonus and the cabin itself was spacious and comfortable. Can’t wait to go back!

Luke

January 2026

4 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

The place was beautiful and the views were too. Lots of amenities available. Good price points. It had a welcome book pointing out what's available in the area and how to get to them. Would recommend.

J

Jeffery

January 2026

4 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

We enjoyed the remoteness of the location and only 20 mins away from the exit and general shopping/food. Everything was clean and worked well even in the cold during new years. It was a great relaxing time away from everything.

P

Paige

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

Excellent. 10/10. The house is clean and very well maintained. It’s super cozy. Hot tub worked great, blankets available for hanging outside. Stocked kitchen. Plenty of towels. Right on the water on fairly flat land. Had everything we needed. Will definitely stay again. Host is friendly and super responsive. Can’t wait to visit again as Franklin is an excellent place for a short vacation. Great places to eat and shopping within a short distance. My only complaint is that the beds are small, hard to tell if they were fulls or queens. No King bed (which is what I’m used to). Also no full-length mirrors. But otherwise, we loved it and will definitely be back.

A

Allie

November 2025

2 nights at Nantahala Cabins

Such a lovely little cabin! We brought the littles for a family trip to the Smoky Mountains and had such a sweet time here in Nantahala cabins. The hosts are very friendly & so helpful. We will back next year & highly recommend!

J

Jacob

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

Amazing little cabin! Very clean and well thought out design. My son and I stayed for the weekend and loved the rushing creek right from the huge back covered patio. We also really enjoyed the clean hot tub. There was plenty of seclusion and privacy even with renters in the treehouse next door. We will definitely stay here again!

T

Trenton

November 2025

4 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

I have to say, this was hands-down the best organized, cleanest, easiest, most amenity-laden cabin I’ve ever rented. So many details, from the embroidered robes to the bound book of instructions and recommendations. From the kitchen appointments to the coffee. There are really too many amazing little things to list here, but you could really tell the owners absolutely care about the experience their property provides. And we went panning for gold in the creek below the back deck and even found a little! It was incredibly comfortable and lots of fun. Just make sure you’re ok with stairs and aren’t too large to fit the spiral to the loft. I honestly cannot think of a single improvement to make. Didn’t even matter that it rained so much, because there was plenty left to do inside.

L

Lora

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Nantahala Cabins

My boyfriend and I enjoyed a little getaway at Jeanette’s cute Gone Fishin’ cabin. It was clean, had plenty of clean towels and the kitchen was just right for us to prepare our food. We enjoyed the hot tub and the covered porch.

R

Refaela

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

Lovely cabin, not too rustic for a small family retreat. Cool amenities, beautiful setting.

J

Jennifer

September 2025

With pets

4 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

This was the perfect get away with my partner and our dogs! The hot tub was a perfect way to unwind and the location felt very secluded and private. Elisabeth was super responsive and helpful!

A

Amy

July 2025

3 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

What a wonderful getaway!! My expectations were far exceeded!!

Luci

July 2025

7 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

Perfect location, Amazing scenery, all the essentials! My husband and i had a great time at the cabin with our dogs. Thank you!

J

Jesus

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Nantahala Cabins

Loved our stay at Nantahala Cabins. Would highly recommend to anyone.

A required picture at a cabin called “Gone Biking”

A

Adam

July 2025

3 nights at Nantahala Cabins

We rented this cabin for a family trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The location was great as it was a 30 minute drive to the park entrance which is short enough to be convenient but far enough to be out of the chaos. The cabin was clean and comfortable. It’s a little closer to the road than I’d prefer (you can’t see the road but you can hear it), but when we had the gentle hum of the hot tub or a fan then the road noise disappeared. Also, I was able to do some mountain biking at Tsali and the trailhead is less than 15 minutes away from this cabin, which was fantastic!

J

Jillian

July 2025

3 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

I couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing way to celebrate my birthday than staying at the Creekside Cabin. Most of our time was spent on the peaceful back deck, soaking in the quiet seclusion and calming sounds of nature. The well-stocked kitchen made it easy to prepare and enjoy several delicious meals. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!

G

Gabrielle

June 2025

With pets

3 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

Thoroughly enjoyed my long weekend at the Cabin. The vibes were so calm and restorative. The hot tub was the perfect touch, and there’s enough privacy here to be in one’s own little world. Would highly recommend!

a

anastasia

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Nantahala Cabins

I loved the cabin! Everything was amazing ❤️ you can do a fire outside, cook meals, chill at the hot hub. Very nice weekend

J

April 2025

3 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

We absolutely loved everything about this property. 5 stars!

D

Dylan

February 2025

3 nights at Creekside Cabin - Lake Hartwell

We had the best stay at the cabin! Cozy, comfortable, warm hot tub and fun arcade. And the bed is a great nights sleep as well. Elisabeth was an awesome host, we’ll be back!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly cabin rentals 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.