The best cave campgrounds 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.

93% (495)

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.

93% (495)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Stoney Creek Oasis Campground

91%

(358)

42mi from Franklin · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Candler, NC

Learn more about this land: We have 20 beautiful campsites, including tent,and rv sites, along Stoney Fork Creek .We are located in Candler, NC, 20 minutes from downtown Asheville. 5 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway and within 2 miles to national forests. 10 minutes from Mt. Pisgah and 9 waterfalls within 10 miles. We offer off grid primitive campsites with a few touches of modernism, with and Wi-Fi. The sites are located adjacent from the greenhouses in a large grassy field, next to the creek, and behind the barn.

2. Harmony hollow

95%

(375)

48mi from Franklin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land: Hi and thanks so much for checking out the Harmony Farm . Things available you can enjoy here onsite are a small (seasonal) splash pool , a small take one leave one library , fresh organic vegetables (free) when in season , fresh eggs when available , trails with scenic views , abundant wildlife and natural springs , an outdoor macrame swing , two person hammock , forageable firewood , morels , a hot outdoor showers and EXTRA LARGE sites, . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood and 13 minutes from a super Walmart Incase you forget something . Only a short 30 minute drive gets you to the Great Smoky Mountains national park. I will be happy to share the scenic route . Greenbrier Tn. one of the first settlements here in the National park is only a scenic 30 minute scenic drive from the farm which will takes you through the arts and crafts community while avoiding the hectic hustle and bustle of town . While visiting Greenbrier you can find a picnic area near the river and an outdoor pavilion with a large grill for your special events located there . Several trail heads are located there in the Greenbrier community including Brushy Mountain trail Old settlers trail (several old settlements can easily be found here) Porters Gap trail. There are too many local attractions to list within 15 to 25 minute drive , from horseback riding . tubing, rafting , smoky mountain gravity park to shopping outlet malls . READ !! Be sure to check mypigeonforge.com , pigeonforge.com or gatlinburg.com to find all the local special events calenders as there is at times ALOT of heavy traffic you may not be prepared for . You're welcome . Discounted rides at local riding stables upon request depending on availability . We are accepting tents, hammocks, trucks, with campers, camper vans and pop up campers welcomed also .Small tear drop types ok . We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm . There are many private areas along the creek side for your primitive camp on our 80 acre horse farm. Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . You will find the laundromat and food venues just minutes away. you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 80 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.

3. Happy Holler

95%

(30)

18mi from Franklin · 1 site · RV · Bryson City, NC

Beautiful camper site on creek only 7 miles from downtown Bryson City. Located 2 miles from boat access to Fontana Lake and have extra parking for small watercraft. Easy pull in and out off paved road. Very quiet and peaceful area. There is a covered patio over the creek and a fire pit. We are close to Great Smokey National Park and only 22 miles to Cherokee casino. If you like to ride we are 60 miles to the Dragons tail. The Great Smokey Mountain railroad is only 7 miles away.It is private and peaceful with lots to do just around the corner. Fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming all within two miles. If your not into someone parked next to you, this is your spot.

Public campgrounds near Franklin

100%

(2)

Sandy Bottoms Campground

18mi from Franklin · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tate Branch Campground

18mi from Franklin · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

100%

(1)

Sarah's Creek Campground

19mi from Franklin · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

100%

(1)

West Fork Campground

19mi from Franklin · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

100%

(5)

Tallulah River Campground

20mi from Franklin · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

100%

(2)

Sunburst Campground

29mi from Franklin · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pisgah National Forest

Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(1)

Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area and Campground

30mi from Franklin · 81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

94%

(9)

Cove Creek Lower Group Campground

33mi from Franklin · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Pisgah National Forest

Lots or room. The creek crossing at Kuykendall Group Camp

100%

(5)

Kuykendall Group Campground

34mi from Franklin · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Pisgah National Forest

100%

(3)

Andrews Cove Campground

34mi from Franklin · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Elkmont Campground // Photo courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Warren Bielenberg

100%

(62)

Elkmont Campground

35mi from Franklin · 210 sites · Tents, RVs · in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Upper Chattahoochee River, campsites right on the river.

100%

(4)

Upper Chattahoochee River Campground

35mi from Franklin · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Stories from the community

W

Wendy

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Stoney Creek Oasis Campground

We loved tent camping on Ashley's land! He was very hospitable and kind. We loved hearing about all the animals and things he was doing with his time. We were right by the creek, so at night it was very soothing. Our children loved playing and throwing the ball with Ashley's dogs. It was our first time camping, so we didn't know what to expect but it was one of the best experiences yet and there was even a shower! We can't wait to go back! Thanks for the great time guys!

A

Abbie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Harmony hollow

Beautiful views, amazing location,! It couldn't have been simpler.

Courtney

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

Harmony Hollow was a cute and comfortable weekend getaway. The campground is close to the parkway but set back so it feels like you're in a remote area. You can hear the traffic noise, but the road isn't really visible from the campsites. Harmony Hollow campground is essentially a big field with 3-4 campsites around the outside and a big open space in the middle. You will definitely see your neighbors unless you hike out to set up a primitive site on the property, but if you do then you will likely be visited by the horses. The bathhouse with toilet, shower and sink was a nice amenity. There was no toilet paper supplied but thankfully we brought our own. The shower is not well lit so bring a lantern if you want to shower after dark. The firewood shed was not stocked, but it is the end of the season so perhaps not much demand.

T

The Rooted

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

This was a beautiful spot. This was our second stay here and we will likely be back.

A

Ann

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Harmony hollow

Welcoming, simple and Peaceful! Loved the shower and other amenities

Christina

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

We really only slept here! But it was very pretty and quiet despite proximity to the road. It was super accessible from Gatlinburg/PF. The toilet/shower was great! We did worry we were bothering the people in the little cabin each time we started the pump. We noticed upon our arrival the firewood area wasn’t stocked, but some time over that first night wood appeared. The two little solar-powered lights in our site did not work, and none of the tiki torches would light. Something splashed around in the creek a couple times, but no crazy wildlife encounters.

C

Colleen

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Harmony hollow

My family of 4 and I enjoyed our stay at this property (4 year old and 8 year old included!) The property is 5 minutes or less from a Family Dollar and a Walmart market but is back off the main road far enough you don’t feel like you’re in the busy of everything. My kids loved the swing, hammock and being able to just run around all where we could keep an eye on them. You’re within 15 minutes (on a busy day) to Dollywood and Splash Country

H

Hailey

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Harmony hollow

We loved camping here! Everything was straightforward and it was a very peaceful place to spend the night on a road trip. We hung out on the hammock next to the creek for a bit which was very relaxing. I would definitely go back and stay again if I pass through!

J

Jacob

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

Good campfire, close to town so it isn't inconvenient, it is well set up and clean which was nice. We were the only site with campers the night that we stayed there, if there had been multiple more sites filled it may have felt a little cramped. Well designed though and I would stay again.

Suzanne

August 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Happy Holler

This is a fantastic Hipcamp. The deck over a small creek was our favorite part...lots of hummingbird action! The hosts, Sue & Roy helped us park and were super friendly and helpful in pointing us in good directions for local trails & swimming spots. We hope to be back soon!

Drew

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

This land is really beautiful, and the owners brought us firewood when the shed was empty. It was great having a toilet and shower on the premises, and very lovely to see the horses running next to camp. Peace park is on a pretty severe slope so tent spots are limited, but otherwise great spot!

M

Matthew

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stoney Creek Oasis Campground

Beautiful piece of land nestled at the foot of a valley. Great babbling clear water creek with small fish and a nice sized swimming hole my six year old son enjoyed tremendously.

A

Alannah

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Harmony hollow

Absolutely stunning campsite with a very nice and accommodating host! Loved my time here and would highly recommend others to visit

S

Steven

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Harmony hollow

Very peaceful. Had plenty of nice and flat sections to put my tent which is a decent size. Easy access to toilet/shower if needed

R

Randy

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Happy Holler

Great spot to "Get Away". I would suggest that if you are a novice at pulling a trailer you select a different spot. Road is narrow and winding. I also suggest you approach from the southwest so you are facing the right direction to back in and to avoid having to turn around. If you come from the other direction, there is a church about 1/2 mile past the site that is small but should work to turn around. We didn't have enough sewer hose to reach the drain as it is all the way in the back, but not a big issue for us. We arrived empty and were only there for 2 nights.

C

Collin

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Harmony hollow

Nice place, nice people wood was a good price but quality wasn’t the best. Good experience for the first time in the Smokey’s.

C

Christina

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

This is a beautiful piece of property! The horses are gorgeous! We didn't bring a tent, but slept in our van. There was a shower and a bathroom, they had a small pool, And place for fire sticks. It was just what we needed!

M

Mark

July 2025

15 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Harmony hollow

We loved Harmony Hollow! Great little spot with basic but well kept and much appreciated amenities.

L

Lorie

July 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Happy Holler

We enjoyed our stay. It was pretty quiet. Nobody bothered us. There is traffic on the road but you don't feel like people are looking at you. Not really any views like you would expect in the mountains, but the bubbling brook is relaxing to sit beside. The road has wide shoulders so walking the dogs was easy as long as you don't mind uphill.

Hariharan

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

Great place to stay. Please fix the map . The location is leading to somewhere both in google and Apple. Rest all it’s good . We enjoyed it

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(62)

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Blairsville, Georgia

97%

(156)

Pisgah National Forest

Burnsville, North Carolina

98%

(192)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

96%

(48)

Cherokee National Forest

Mountain City, Tennessee

Other options near Franklin

Cove Creek RV Resorts

40mi from Franklin · 68 sites · Sevierville, TN

Cove Creek RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for luxury RV living, offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of Cove Mountain. Nestled in the serene Smoky Mountain region of Wears Valley, this resort is perfectly situated between the vibrant towns of Pigeon Forge and Townsend, TN. What makes Cove Creek RV Resort truly special is its blend of tranquility and adventure. Guests can unwind in the peaceful surroundings or dive into a plethora of exciting activities nearby. Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains, discover hidden swimming holes, or embark on outdoor adventures such as hiking and fishing. In addition to the natural attractions, visitors will find a variety of restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. Whether you’re looking to relax on-site or explore the vibrant local area, Cove Creek RV Resort is the perfect home base for creating unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and experience the charm and beauty of this unique destination.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best cave camping 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.