The best camping near Hot Springs with horseback riding

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The only known natural hot spring in North Carolina gave rise to the city of Hot Springs, which has become a resort town rife with privately owned spas, lodging rentals, and lots of camping and outdoor recreation. Hot Springs sits near the Appalachian Trail, a popular destination for long-distance hikers, and the French Broad River, believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. Head deeper into nature with a trip to Pisgah National Forest for mile-high peaks and dispersed camping. Lake James State Park offers lakeside campgrounds for water enthusiasts. And Mount Mitchell State Park offers backpacking campsites next to the highest point of elevation east of the Mississippi River.

97% (5.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hot Springs

1. 3feather Sanctuary

94%
(50)
6.4mi from Hot Springs · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are the coolest little campground in WNC. 3feather Sanctuary is tucked away in the amazing countryside of the Appalachian mountains, surrounded by beautiful, stately trees and a creek meanders through the property. We have all the amenities and yet retain the rustic natural charm of the majestic mountain town. We have an amazing bathhouse(commonground) with the best shower, communal fridge & honor system w/d, tucked beside a convenient outdoor covered kitchen, we have fiber WiFi, & swimming hole. This is the perfect peaceful getaway near great outdoor activities and some of the best that North Carolina has to offer! 3Feather Sanctuary is surrounded by beautiful, stately trees and has a creek meandering through it. The closest town is Hot Springs, which is 20 minutes away and the Hot Springs are a definite must-see if that peaks your interest! The town itself is also pretty cool. There are some good shops, restaurants & our favorite hardware store!! Downtown Marshall is also close, about 25 minutes and has a lot to offer! Gr8 restaurants, thrifting and cute shops along the river. Our property is about an hour away from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the adorable city of Asheville - which makes for a fantastic day trip with delicious restaurants, breweries, cool shops, and more! The Great Smokey Mountains and Deep Creek are about 1.5 hours away from the campsite. The Appalachian Trail is closeby and there are countless opportunities for stunning hikes. There's also kayaking, tubing, white water rafting opportunities as well as zip lining and horseback riding. There is something for everyone to enjoy and we can't wait to share it with you! Full disclosure: We have a camera pointed at the entrance and one at the bath house door, which we can move around to make sure that when people check in they make it to the right spot since I manage remotely part of the year. We have regular yard maintenance, however, we are Country natural landscape, not parking lot type campground, so the grass is slightly higher in some small areas but truly those things are part of a sustainable and uniquely beautiful camping experience!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night

2. Quiet Troublesome Gap

99%
(99)
6.6mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My parents bought the 120 acre property in the 1960s. I started clearing and building the campsite in 2019. Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side.  There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents.   There are also great spots to hang your hammock.   Camp where my family camps.  My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends.  We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too! The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer.  You'll have 3 acres all to yourself.  The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away.  There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.   This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away.  Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking. The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away.  Asheville is about an hour away. The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road.  However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper.   If you are pulling a trailer you'll really want to consider having 4wd. If you aren't used to driving on steep dirt mountain roads, you may want to bring your 4wd vehicle. If you have a 2wd vehicle, then you'll want to come to the site via Big Pine Road. This route will take you through Walnut, NC We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience. This is a campsite where have the whole 3.5 acre property to yourself. You are surrounded by properties that vary from 40 acres to over a hundred acres. We just want you to have a great time and bring home great stories. It seems like every visitor to Troublesome Gap has a great story. Come camp with us and build your own story. Important Note: Water is only available on the site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Otherwise you'll need to bring your own water. There is a camera on the property. It faces the gate (and away from the campsite).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night

6. French Broad Sunset

100%
(15)
11mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful RV site or camping site with 50 AMP Electric, Water & Sewer Hookups, a light weight metal table with 4 chairs and Fire Pit on the French Broad River. The site is pull-in onto either concrete pad or gravel pad (your choice) from a paved road. The site is 35ft x 53ft. The StarLink reception is strong at this site as reported by Hipcamp campers. French Broad Sunset is only 3 minutes to downtown Marshall, NC. Peaceful setting with amazing vistas on the river with the gentle whitewater rapids, wildlife, and stunning sunsets. Hipcamp campers can fish off the property (432 ft of river frontage). Lots of close outdoor activities (hiking, white water rafting (Section 8 and 9), tubing, horse back riding, bicycle, motorcycle and ATV rentals close by, guided fishing and hunting), yummy restaurants (fine and causal), regular music events, fun shopping, local brewery, and many ongoing local events. Marshall has a Super Ingles (groceries), and a natural food market (Madison Natural Foods). Bring your fishing gear, canoe, raft, and SUP (French Broad River on Section 7) to use right at the site. Playground 1/4 mile easy walk from site. Site is on a dead-end road in a quiet, peaceful setting. Site is accessed by going under a bridge (clearance is 13 feet 3 inches) to Rollins Rd. 25 minutes to Asheville, 30 minutes to Hot Springs (AT trail, Hot Springs spa), 30 minutes to Wolf Laurel (snow skiing)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

7. Raven Ridge

99%
(269)
13mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Lodging
Raven ridge is a 5.0 acre property with plenty of botanical appeal, Appalachian charm and mountain views. James landed on the property in 2009, built a small dairy barn and milked 3 cows for a couple years before building the two cabins. In 2015 he was joined by Sofi, originally from Sweden and together they have three daughters. Together they manage a botanically interesting hobby hill farm and are happy to host travelers and seekers in their cabins. Hilltop was a joint project that James built in 2012 with a talented woodworker and friend in 6 months. We have maintained the original vibe of the place, rustic simplicity and elegance a notch or two above glamping, well-described by the zen koan, "chop wood, carry water" Orchard House was built entirely by James from the block up to the roof, averaging 1 hour/day for 3 years or 1,000 hours. Some of the Hilltop photos are a bit dated, we have a more private outhouse behind the cabin, and have made a few improvements here and there. Reach out anytime for any reason. We love hosting and nearly everyone enjoys their stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$77
 / night

8. Nolichuckey Bluffs Cozy Campsites

100%
(10)
14mi from Hot Springs · 12 sites · RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains near historic Greeneville, Tennessee, Nolichuckey Bluffs Bed and Breakfast RV, Camping, Cabins is a wonderful place to just get away from it all and escape into nature. Campsites are private with vistas overlooking the river and mountains. RV locations are easily accessible and have full hook-ups. Cabins are cozy with first-class amenities and East Tennessee hospitality. The fully equipped pet friendly cabins offer breathtaking views of the Nolichuckey River and mountains. Breakfast is available upon request and for a fee. Make a reservation or pick up a jam and jelly made from berries right here on the property. Your furry friends are our furry friends but we do require a special reservation and fee for them. So please let us know about them before you arrive. Whether you're looking for a weekend get-away, a place to hold a family reunion, a wedding, a church retreat, or a small business conference, Nolichuckey Bluffs can accommodate.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

9. Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

98%
(82)
15mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · RV
Welcome to our picturesque RV site, where you can experience stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, Cherokee National Forest, and Pisgah National Forest. The natural beauty of this area is truly breathtaking, with layers upon layers of mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. Our site is conveniently located just 5 miles from the Martha Sundquist State Forest, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's also white water rafting just 4.5 miles away! If you're looking to explore the surrounding towns and cities, you're in luck. Our site is located just an hour from Gatlinburg, TN, and Pigeon Forge, TN - two popular tourist destinations known for their theme parks, attractions, and shopping. You're also just an hour away from Asheville, NC, a vibrant city known for its arts, music, and culinary scene. And if you're looking for a more low-key experience, Hot Springs, NC is just 45 minutes away, offering natural hot springs, charming shops, and restaurants. Our RV site is the perfect basecamp for your next adventure in the mountains. You'll have access to all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including electric and water hookups, and ample space for parking. And when you're ready to relax after a long day of exploring, you can kick back and enjoy the stunning views from your RV or around the campfire. We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise in the mountains!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night

14. Bear Trail Ridge In Del Rio

100%
(10)
16mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent
Our 300 acres has seen cattle and tobacco over the last century, and featured in the Christy book series in the early 1900's, before falling into neglect. Stories abound of moonshiners and cock fighters reveling in it's isolation. Purchased with a dream in 2004 we have slowly recovered the original fields, and developed our own trails, linking in and out of the Cherokee National Forest. From grassy lowland skirted by creeks to ridges of hardwood timber, our farm, now home to our artisanal herd of beef cattle, is an idyll away from the bustle. Visit the old graveyard, or try to find the old schoolhouse location. Bring your dogs and enjoy getting away from it all. Learn more about this land: Private campsite in secluded hardwood forest glade. Clear acre deep in the woods; room for many tents. Custom-built picnic table, fantastic fire circle. Potable water and firewood will be provided. Privy. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Camp is a short (1/8th mile) from parking.  Hike in, or we are happy to ferry gear/people up.   Surrounded by miles of hiking trails, both on the property and into the surrounding National Forest. Rolling to mountainous terrain, creeks, set within artisanal cattle farm. Trout fishing less than two miles away. Ten minute drive to hot pizza, and 35 minute drive to town of Hot Springs - rent a hot tub, good local restaurants. Twenty minutes to nearest boat put-in on French Broad River.  One hour from Dollywood, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We are excited to share our slice of paradise, and can help orientate any visitors with suggestions of trails to hike/bike/ride, and places to visit.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night

15. Gnome Hollow Farms

100%
(10)
17mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging
Gnome Hollow at Dixon Hill Farms, LLC Nestled just outside Greeneville, Gnome Hollow hosts guests in their fully furnished on-farm tent campsite featuring beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and an amazing view of the entire mountain range. They also offer guided and self-guided farm tours that give visitors the opportunity to feed the baby and adult goats, chickens, turkeys, guineas, ducks and geese. They have added The Giddy Goat Gift Shoppe where they offer all types of handmade and one of a kind works from local artisans. Their event areas include the Hen Haven Gathering Hall and Pyrenees Pavilion. They also have a picnic and playground area. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and on their website to keep up with their weekly and monthly Family Friendly Events. And if you stay on Saturday Nights, Gnome Hollow Drive-In is there for a little Nostalgia at Dusk. gnomehollowatdhf.com
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

16. Mount Sterling Base Camp

100%
(107)
17mi from Hot Springs · 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night

18. Shoestring Creek Campground

97%
(246)
20mi from Hot Springs · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
We are a campground with tent sites and cabins. 40 acres to explore, the grounds are heavily forested, with walking trails and nature, nature, nature. Each site is secluded, We are located in the Cherokee National Forest at the foot of the Smokey Mountains. Just outside the towns of Hartford and Cosby. Hartford has River Rafting, Zip Lines, Kayaking on the Pigeon River. You will be able to get away from it all. but less than 45 minutes from favorite tourist attractions like Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville. We are located 2.6 miles off of I-40 at mile marker 447 just across the NC state line.Learn more about this land:Small off grid campground away from the noise and bustle of bigger campgrounds. Seclusion and privacy at all cabins. Cabins are primitive with no power or plumbing. Cabins have full or queen bed with 1 set of bunk beds in 2 of the cabins, table and chairs. Fire pit. Charcoal grills and picnic tables outside for cooking and eating. Bathhouse on site with thermal shower and real toilet. You will need your camping items such as sleeping bags, lanterns, and cooking items etc.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

19. Buffalo Creek Vacations

100%
(12)
21mi from Hot Springs · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging
Buffalo Creek Vacations was started after our father, Harold, retired from NY as a UPS driver.  He wanted to go somewhere & experience all 4 season!  Him & our mom settled in Haywood County, NC & built their own log cabin & started raising bison.  Then, myself, 3 siblings & our spouses purchases the 40 acres behind my folks 18 acres when it came up for sale.  We decided to build a cabin & then we started rented it out in 2007.  Now, we currently have 6 cabins & 2 train cabooses for rent.  We love living in God's country & raising the bison along w/ a bunch other farm animals.  We love hosting guest on our property & decided after many calls asking if we allow camping, to include a few lucky folks to camp at Buffalo Creek.  If you are looking for something other then "car camping" & being "on top of each other" at traditional camp grounds, then give us a call & come check us out.  You will be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

The only known natural hot spring in North Carolina gave rise to the city of Hot Springs, which has become a resort town rife with privately owned spas, lodging rentals, and lots of camping and outdoor recreation. Hot Springs sits near the Appalachian Trail, a popular destination for long-distance hikers, and the French Broad River, believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. Head deeper into nature with a trip to Pisgah National Forest for mile-high peaks and dispersed camping. Lake James State Park offers lakeside campgrounds for water enthusiasts. And Mount Mitchell State Park offers backpacking campsites next to the highest point of elevation east of the Mississippi River.

97% (5.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hot Springs

1. 3feather Sanctuary

94%
(50)
6.4mi from Hot Springs · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are the coolest little campground in WNC. 3feather Sanctuary is tucked away in the amazing countryside of the Appalachian mountains, surrounded by beautiful, stately trees and a creek meanders through the property. We have all the amenities and yet retain the rustic natural charm of the majestic mountain town. We have an amazing bathhouse(commonground) with the best shower, communal fridge & honor system w/d, tucked beside a convenient outdoor covered kitchen, we have fiber WiFi, & swimming hole. This is the perfect peaceful getaway near great outdoor activities and some of the best that North Carolina has to offer! 3Feather Sanctuary is surrounded by beautiful, stately trees and has a creek meandering through it. The closest town is Hot Springs, which is 20 minutes away and the Hot Springs are a definite must-see if that peaks your interest! The town itself is also pretty cool. There are some good shops, restaurants & our favorite hardware store!! Downtown Marshall is also close, about 25 minutes and has a lot to offer! Gr8 restaurants, thrifting and cute shops along the river. Our property is about an hour away from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the adorable city of Asheville - which makes for a fantastic day trip with delicious restaurants, breweries, cool shops, and more! The Great Smokey Mountains and Deep Creek are about 1.5 hours away from the campsite. The Appalachian Trail is closeby and there are countless opportunities for stunning hikes. There's also kayaking, tubing, white water rafting opportunities as well as zip lining and horseback riding. There is something for everyone to enjoy and we can't wait to share it with you! Full disclosure: We have a camera pointed at the entrance and one at the bath house door, which we can move around to make sure that when people check in they make it to the right spot since I manage remotely part of the year. We have regular yard maintenance, however, we are Country natural landscape, not parking lot type campground, so the grass is slightly higher in some small areas but truly those things are part of a sustainable and uniquely beautiful camping experience!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night

2. Quiet Troublesome Gap

99%
(99)
6.6mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My parents bought the 120 acre property in the 1960s. I started clearing and building the campsite in 2019. Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side.  There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents.   There are also great spots to hang your hammock.   Camp where my family camps.  My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends.  We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too! The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer.  You'll have 3 acres all to yourself.  The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away.  There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.   This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away.  Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking. The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away.  Asheville is about an hour away. The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road.  However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper.   If you are pulling a trailer you'll really want to consider having 4wd. If you aren't used to driving on steep dirt mountain roads, you may want to bring your 4wd vehicle. If you have a 2wd vehicle, then you'll want to come to the site via Big Pine Road. This route will take you through Walnut, NC We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience. This is a campsite where have the whole 3.5 acre property to yourself. You are surrounded by properties that vary from 40 acres to over a hundred acres. We just want you to have a great time and bring home great stories. It seems like every visitor to Troublesome Gap has a great story. Come camp with us and build your own story. Important Note: Water is only available on the site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Otherwise you'll need to bring your own water. There is a camera on the property. It faces the gate (and away from the campsite).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night

6. French Broad Sunset

100%
(15)
11mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful RV site or camping site with 50 AMP Electric, Water & Sewer Hookups, a light weight metal table with 4 chairs and Fire Pit on the French Broad River. The site is pull-in onto either concrete pad or gravel pad (your choice) from a paved road. The site is 35ft x 53ft. The StarLink reception is strong at this site as reported by Hipcamp campers. French Broad Sunset is only 3 minutes to downtown Marshall, NC. Peaceful setting with amazing vistas on the river with the gentle whitewater rapids, wildlife, and stunning sunsets. Hipcamp campers can fish off the property (432 ft of river frontage). Lots of close outdoor activities (hiking, white water rafting (Section 8 and 9), tubing, horse back riding, bicycle, motorcycle and ATV rentals close by, guided fishing and hunting), yummy restaurants (fine and causal), regular music events, fun shopping, local brewery, and many ongoing local events. Marshall has a Super Ingles (groceries), and a natural food market (Madison Natural Foods). Bring your fishing gear, canoe, raft, and SUP (French Broad River on Section 7) to use right at the site. Playground 1/4 mile easy walk from site. Site is on a dead-end road in a quiet, peaceful setting. Site is accessed by going under a bridge (clearance is 13 feet 3 inches) to Rollins Rd. 25 minutes to Asheville, 30 minutes to Hot Springs (AT trail, Hot Springs spa), 30 minutes to Wolf Laurel (snow skiing)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

7. Raven Ridge

99%
(269)
13mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Lodging
Raven ridge is a 5.0 acre property with plenty of botanical appeal, Appalachian charm and mountain views. James landed on the property in 2009, built a small dairy barn and milked 3 cows for a couple years before building the two cabins. In 2015 he was joined by Sofi, originally from Sweden and together they have three daughters. Together they manage a botanically interesting hobby hill farm and are happy to host travelers and seekers in their cabins. Hilltop was a joint project that James built in 2012 with a talented woodworker and friend in 6 months. We have maintained the original vibe of the place, rustic simplicity and elegance a notch or two above glamping, well-described by the zen koan, "chop wood, carry water" Orchard House was built entirely by James from the block up to the roof, averaging 1 hour/day for 3 years or 1,000 hours. Some of the Hilltop photos are a bit dated, we have a more private outhouse behind the cabin, and have made a few improvements here and there. Reach out anytime for any reason. We love hosting and nearly everyone enjoys their stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$77
 / night

8. Nolichuckey Bluffs Cozy Campsites

100%
(10)
14mi from Hot Springs · 12 sites · RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains near historic Greeneville, Tennessee, Nolichuckey Bluffs Bed and Breakfast RV, Camping, Cabins is a wonderful place to just get away from it all and escape into nature. Campsites are private with vistas overlooking the river and mountains. RV locations are easily accessible and have full hook-ups. Cabins are cozy with first-class amenities and East Tennessee hospitality. The fully equipped pet friendly cabins offer breathtaking views of the Nolichuckey River and mountains. Breakfast is available upon request and for a fee. Make a reservation or pick up a jam and jelly made from berries right here on the property. Your furry friends are our furry friends but we do require a special reservation and fee for them. So please let us know about them before you arrive. Whether you're looking for a weekend get-away, a place to hold a family reunion, a wedding, a church retreat, or a small business conference, Nolichuckey Bluffs can accommodate.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

9. Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

98%
(82)
15mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · RV
Welcome to our picturesque RV site, where you can experience stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, Cherokee National Forest, and Pisgah National Forest. The natural beauty of this area is truly breathtaking, with layers upon layers of mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. Our site is conveniently located just 5 miles from the Martha Sundquist State Forest, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's also white water rafting just 4.5 miles away! If you're looking to explore the surrounding towns and cities, you're in luck. Our site is located just an hour from Gatlinburg, TN, and Pigeon Forge, TN - two popular tourist destinations known for their theme parks, attractions, and shopping. You're also just an hour away from Asheville, NC, a vibrant city known for its arts, music, and culinary scene. And if you're looking for a more low-key experience, Hot Springs, NC is just 45 minutes away, offering natural hot springs, charming shops, and restaurants. Our RV site is the perfect basecamp for your next adventure in the mountains. You'll have access to all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including electric and water hookups, and ample space for parking. And when you're ready to relax after a long day of exploring, you can kick back and enjoy the stunning views from your RV or around the campfire. We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise in the mountains!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$48
 / night

14. Bear Trail Ridge In Del Rio

100%
(10)
16mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent
Our 300 acres has seen cattle and tobacco over the last century, and featured in the Christy book series in the early 1900's, before falling into neglect. Stories abound of moonshiners and cock fighters reveling in it's isolation. Purchased with a dream in 2004 we have slowly recovered the original fields, and developed our own trails, linking in and out of the Cherokee National Forest. From grassy lowland skirted by creeks to ridges of hardwood timber, our farm, now home to our artisanal herd of beef cattle, is an idyll away from the bustle. Visit the old graveyard, or try to find the old schoolhouse location. Bring your dogs and enjoy getting away from it all. Learn more about this land: Private campsite in secluded hardwood forest glade. Clear acre deep in the woods; room for many tents. Custom-built picnic table, fantastic fire circle. Potable water and firewood will be provided. Privy. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Camp is a short (1/8th mile) from parking.  Hike in, or we are happy to ferry gear/people up.   Surrounded by miles of hiking trails, both on the property and into the surrounding National Forest. Rolling to mountainous terrain, creeks, set within artisanal cattle farm. Trout fishing less than two miles away. Ten minute drive to hot pizza, and 35 minute drive to town of Hot Springs - rent a hot tub, good local restaurants. Twenty minutes to nearest boat put-in on French Broad River.  One hour from Dollywood, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We are excited to share our slice of paradise, and can help orientate any visitors with suggestions of trails to hike/bike/ride, and places to visit.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night

15. Gnome Hollow Farms

100%
(10)
17mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging
Gnome Hollow at Dixon Hill Farms, LLC Nestled just outside Greeneville, Gnome Hollow hosts guests in their fully furnished on-farm tent campsite featuring beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and an amazing view of the entire mountain range. They also offer guided and self-guided farm tours that give visitors the opportunity to feed the baby and adult goats, chickens, turkeys, guineas, ducks and geese. They have added The Giddy Goat Gift Shoppe where they offer all types of handmade and one of a kind works from local artisans. Their event areas include the Hen Haven Gathering Hall and Pyrenees Pavilion. They also have a picnic and playground area. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and on their website to keep up with their weekly and monthly Family Friendly Events. And if you stay on Saturday Nights, Gnome Hollow Drive-In is there for a little Nostalgia at Dusk. gnomehollowatdhf.com
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$36
 / night

16. Mount Sterling Base Camp

100%
(107)
17mi from Hot Springs · 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night

18. Shoestring Creek Campground

97%
(246)
20mi from Hot Springs · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
We are a campground with tent sites and cabins. 40 acres to explore, the grounds are heavily forested, with walking trails and nature, nature, nature. Each site is secluded, We are located in the Cherokee National Forest at the foot of the Smokey Mountains. Just outside the towns of Hartford and Cosby. Hartford has River Rafting, Zip Lines, Kayaking on the Pigeon River. You will be able to get away from it all. but less than 45 minutes from favorite tourist attractions like Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville. We are located 2.6 miles off of I-40 at mile marker 447 just across the NC state line.Learn more about this land:Small off grid campground away from the noise and bustle of bigger campgrounds. Seclusion and privacy at all cabins. Cabins are primitive with no power or plumbing. Cabins have full or queen bed with 1 set of bunk beds in 2 of the cabins, table and chairs. Fire pit. Charcoal grills and picnic tables outside for cooking and eating. Bathhouse on site with thermal shower and real toilet. You will need your camping items such as sleeping bags, lanterns, and cooking items etc.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

19. Buffalo Creek Vacations

100%
(12)
21mi from Hot Springs · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging
Buffalo Creek Vacations was started after our father, Harold, retired from NY as a UPS driver.  He wanted to go somewhere & experience all 4 season!  Him & our mom settled in Haywood County, NC & built their own log cabin & started raising bison.  Then, myself, 3 siblings & our spouses purchases the 40 acres behind my folks 18 acres when it came up for sale.  We decided to build a cabin & then we started rented it out in 2007.  Now, we currently have 6 cabins & 2 train cabooses for rent.  We love living in God's country & raising the bison along w/ a bunch other farm animals.  We love hosting guest on our property & decided after many calls asking if we allow camping, to include a few lucky folks to camp at Buffalo Creek.  If you are looking for something other then "car camping" & being "on top of each other" at traditional camp grounds, then give us a call & come check us out.  You will be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Hot Springs with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Pisgah National Forest

With over 500,000 acres of forested slopes, waterfalls, and mile-high peaks, Pisgah National Forest is a camper’s delight. Head out on multi-use trails for biking and horseback riding to rock climbing opportunities. Or go tubing, fishing, or swimming in the streams and rivers flowing through the forest park. On-site RV and tent campsites provide access to potable water and dump stations, while dispersed, primitive camping options in the wilderness are also available. For a bit of luxury, reserve a private furnished cabin or tiny house under the trees.

Lake James State Park

A popular destination on the Catawba River system, Lake James State Park welcomes campers to paddle-in and backpack-in primitive campsites for an immersive lake experience. Wake up and go boating, swimming, jet skiing and fishing. Then hike on pet-friendly trails like Holly Discovery Trail or Overmountain Victory Trail to see more of the park. For those looking for more traditional options, lakeside campsites for tents and RVs are also available with potable waters and hot showers.

Mount Mitchell State Park

Mount Mitchell State Park has two claims to fame—it was the very first state park in North Carolina and the mountain for which it’s named happens to be the highest point of elevation east of the Mississippi River. Campers can access the park in May through November via the Blue Ridge Mountains Parkway, or hike the Mountains-to-Sea state trails connected to Pisgah National Forest. Other peaks in the park like Mount Hallback, Mount Craig, Big Tom, and Balsam Cone have 360-degree panoramic views and are lined with Fraser fir forests. All campsites are walk-in backpacking sites with grills and picnic tables, but private campgrounds for RVs with full hookups are also nearby.

When to go

Hot Springs is in a mountain valley, which brings cooler temperatures in summer and offers  protection from winter storms, resulting in a comfortable temperate climate year-round. Daily high temperatures are around 85°F in summer months, while winters stay between 33°F and 53°F. Since Hot Springs sits near the Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Mountains, summer is a very popular time for campers who want to hike on the trails and enjoy the mountain wilderness.