The best waterfall campgrounds near Hot Springs, North Carolina

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Hot Springs, North Carolina with stunning waterfalls? Look no further than Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), and Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews). With over 1,000 options specifically tailored to your preference for waterfall adventures, you're sure to find the ideal campsite for your outdoor getaway. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, you'll be able to choose from a wide range of options that suit your needs and budget. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature and discover hidden gems. With popular amenities such as showers, campfires, and trash facilities, plus activities like hiking, whitewater paddling, and snow sports, your camping experience will be unforgettable. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the stunning waterfalls of Hot Springs, North Carolina!

97% (3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hot Springs

5. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(48)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

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

6. Little Bodhi Creek Farm Stay

96%

(12)

11mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Lodging

106 acre former tobacco farm near Max Patch and the Apppalachian Trail with historic off grid chestnut farm cabins, old logging road walking trails, spring fed creeks, pond, waterfall and mountains. We have chickens and ducks. We are right off "The Rattler" SR 209 a popular 223 curves mountain road thats a popular destination of many who like to cruise on their motorcycles, slingshots, Jeeps, horse drawn carriage or cars.

621 sites · Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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

11. Nantahala National Forest

95%

(73)

438 sites · Franklin, North Carolina

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. 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!

25mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · RV

This is a DRY SITE. Your camping vehicle must be able to hold both sewage and gray water. The site borders a North Carolina trout stream. We reserve the right to cancel if you do not comply. The campsite is about 1.25 acres and part of a larger property. We set up a travel trailer here while we built our home. Recently one of our neighbors, who does quite a bit of camping, set up their travel trailer in the same spot while their home was being painted. They loved it and recommended that we offer the site for others to appreciate. Respecting the DRY CAMPSITE helps.

19. Emerald Oasis at Mandala Springs

94%

(25)

26mi from Hot Springs · 32 sites · Tents

Discover Emerald Oasis at Mandala Springs, a 67-acre sanctuary 25-30 min from Asheville, bordering Pisgah National Forest. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a soulful, primitive camping experience with a community vibe. Why You'll Love It: Sauna & Splash: Steam in the Private Cedar or Public Woodfire Sauna then Refresh in our spring-fed swimming hole. Nudity is permitted and may be expected here and at the sauna, embracing natural freedom and body positivity. Explore: Hike trails, climb massive boulders, and immerse in a biodiverse region. Community: Join ecstatic dance and other events; and COMING SOON shop at our Marketplace or Vibe in the Lounge Pure Nature: Enjoy living spring water and vibrant wilderness. The Campground: 1 Community Group Site: Connect with others. 2 Private Group Sites: Ideal for small groups. 4 Single Camper Sites: Perfect for solo or duo adventurers. Compost Toilets: Eco-friendly facilities (porta-potty also available). Note: This is a primitive camping experience with limited amenities. Cross a shallow creek using provided waterproof boots and a cart for gear, or a handrail-free footbridge for you and gear. Accessibility is limited; no cart service to drive guests. Know Before You Go: Respect our residential community and stay on the campground side of the creek. Substance-Free: No smoking or alcohol. Pets: Keep leashed; contain when unattended (e.g., sauna). Campfires: Forage wood; check fire bans. Burn at own risk. Respect Nature: No soaps in stream; keep noise low 9 PM-9 AM. Parking: Limited. Van campers park but stay in campground. Future parking expansion planned to allow Van Camping. Nudity: Permitted at swimming hole and sauna. Who’s It For? For adventurers craving nature, okay with minimal amenities and a body-positive vibe where nudity may occur at the swimming hole/sauna. Be ready to cross a creek with boots/cart or footbridge. Unplug, hike, swim, and recharge in our wild haven!

20. The Waldhaus Resort

99%

(177)

26mi from Hot Springs · 5 sites · Lodging

Waldhaus Resort is a special place surrounded by the Pisgah National Forrest. Pure nature close to a thriving metropolitan area. We offer the Sawmill and the Summit!I have been an engineer, corporate executive and world traveler all my life. Born and raised in Switzerland I speak German, French, English and a little Spanish. My passion is the outdoors, hunting, fishing and cooking . My other calling is to entertain people which share the same passions. That’s why I created the Waldhaus resort.During the past years, the Sawmill has become my favorite place to spend quality time in what I call "Cabin Living" which I love so much. Nearly every day there is a small challenge, nothing comes easy, but all the coziness and comfort is there.  The water is supplied by a spring above the mill. Electricity is generated by solar technology and a generator. All refrigeration and cooking appliances are propane; and so is the basic heat (propane again) - and a very old Jotul wood stove will do the rest. I sleep a lot on the day bed in the living room so the Sawmill can be comfortably rented for up to 4 guests. The outhouse is a thing of the past, just recently I installed a compositing toilet besides the bedroom.We also offer The Summit which is a high elevation, 2-story cabin surrounded by national forest which has evolved into an off-grid living and play space located at nearly 3300 feet elevation on a 1/2 acre flat with an incredible view. There are very private old forest service trails leading directly into the Pisgah National Forest. 

Camper favorites near Hot Springs

Highland Cow Off-Grid Treehouse

98%

(20)

32mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging

Escape to a custom-built, 100% sustainable off-grid treehouse on 23 private wooded acres in Western North Carolina. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a romantic retreat, this unique stay offers long-range mountain views, an eco-friendly design powered by solar energy, a cozy wood stove, and fresh mountain spring water. Enjoy an exhilarating outdoor shower and a homebiogas toilet with a scenic view. Thoughtfully designed with handcrafted woodwork, a charming kitchenette, copper finishes, and plush organic linens, this treehouse takes glamping to a whole new level of luxury. Meet the Highland Cows Guests have exclusive access to our adorable Highland cattle herd—Moonshine, Martini, and Mojito, the "cocktail" cows. Enjoy hiking? Well perfect because there are hundreds of trails nearby because the treehouse is equidistant to not 1, not 2, but 3 Blue Ridge Parkway entrances and is in the Pisgah National Forest. The highest point along the entire route of the Blue Ridge Parkway is located near us as well at Richland Balsam. In addition the treehouse is on a scenic byway which connects to another scenic byway. That makes the drive just breathtaking, going by farms and forest and runs along the Pigeon River which also offers tubing and amazing fly fishing. If that's not enough we are close to Asheville, Maggie Valley, Hendersonville, and Brevard. We suggest visiting our website www.flowertowncharmoffgrid.com/FAQ if you have questions! WINTER BOOKINGS: Our driveway may be impassible during winter weather and we recommend snow tires, snow chains, and/or 4x4 during the winter months due to ice. We do shut down the running water during the winter to prevent the pipes from freezing. We will provide guests with 5 gallon drinking jugs with a dispenser to use, and the toilet still has water to flush. But the shower, sink, tub, hose, and bidet will be shut down during these months. If you want the true off-grid experience this is it ;) We do require guests to e-sign our rental agreement that we will email to you, and request a $300 security deposit hold (not a charge) that we will release upon checkout. This is just a precaution for us letting people we don't know stay at our place and respecting it.

Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

91%

(383)

34mi from Hot Springs · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

100%

(161)

37mi from Hot Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land:You’ll cross the covered bridge (clearance 11’6” ) as you enter our farm, a 73 acre small family farm, nestled in the Buffalo Valley of Northeast TN, and featuring a down home country atmosphere. What makes our farm special are all of the unique extras: a working log cabin blacksmith shop, log cabin art gallery, certified commercial kitchen, lots of watchable wildlife, and walking trails. We have a one acre wildlife pond and a smaller pond fed by springs and Buffalo Creek, which runs through the farm. Our small buffalo herd is pastured not far from the campsites and our friendly peacocks and chickens roam the grounds. We also offer classes in blacksmithing, art, foraging and cooking periodically. We are rural but not remote and are minutes away from state parks, fishing, hiking, rafting and other recreational activities as well as downtown Johnson City and Historic Jonesborough with breweries, shops, and many restaurants. As purveyors of Appalachian culture and cuisine, we invite you to stay a day , or longer, to share our friendly and relaxing small farm atmosphere in the mountains.

Cherokee Waterfall Campground

97%

(193)

37mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Public campgrounds near Hot Springs

100%

(2)

Rocky Bluff Campground

2.3mi from Hot Springs · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pisgah National Forest

Paint Creek Corridor

5.3mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Paint Creek Campground

6mi from Hot Springs · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(1)

Round Mountain Campground

7.8mi from Hot Springs · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Houston Valley Campground

8.1mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Harmon Den Area

12mi from Hot Springs · 11 sites · in Pisgah National Forest

Harmon Den Horse Campground

12mi from Hot Springs · 10 sites · in Pisgah National Forest

100%

(3)

Old Forge Recreation Area

16mi from Hot Springs · 10 sites · in Cherokee National Forest

Horse Creek, which runs through the area, offers a nice, soothing background.

Horse Creek Recreation Area

18mi from Hot Springs · 15 sites · in Cherokee National Forest

96%

(13)

Cosby Group Campground

23mi from Hot Springs · 3 sites · in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The beginning of low gap trail just up from Cosby.

94%

(17)

Cosby Campground

23mi from Hot Springs · 157 sites · Tents, RVs · in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Lake Powhatan nice spot for a relaxing picnic

97%

(16)

Lake Powhatan Campground

31mi from Hot Springs · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pisgah National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Alicia

3 days ago

32 ft toy hauler

3 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

Very cool place we would definitely come again. Driveway down needs to be trimmed a little.

M

Makayla

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

I stayed in the Upper Treehouse with my cat and loved it! I was in the area to hike the Great Smoky Mountains for a few days and felt secure with leaving my cat back in the treehouse. The property was wonderful being deep in the backwoods, quiet, the communal kitchen, laundry, fire pit, and little store with very helpful items . If the weather was warmer I would've laid out in the hammocks! My cat and I were warm, comfortable and felt safe. The owners were very welcoming and accommodating. It was an extra bonus to meet and connect with other hikers/nature loves/adventure seekers. Overall, I had a fantastic experience and would stay again if I ever make it back out to the mountains.

I

Irene

November 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Cherokee Waterfall Campground

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

Connie

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

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

My wife waiting for me to join her on another sunset swing

Tim

November 2025

21 ft Class B

3 nights at Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

Sunset Ridge near Del Rio, TN is a true hidden gem perched high on a ridge with sweeping 50-mile western views of untouched American wilderness. From towering 6,000+ ft Smoky Mountain peaks to dense pine forests, deer, bears, and classic backwoods charm, this spot delivers the authentic mountain experience. Like many Hipcamp sites, you’ll drive through a few “interesting” areas to get there, but it’s absolutely worth the short detour off I-40. Hurricane Helen repair work continues in the region, so expect minor delays—but nothing that should deter your stay. The site itself is well laid out with a reliable 50-AMP hookup (30-AMP rigs should bring an adapter), two properly placed sewer connections for easy access, and a well-pump water source offering around 15–20 psi. We found that perfectly adequate for daily use, or you can fill your onboard tank and enjoy a stronger 40–50 psi via your RV’s pump. A cozy two-person swing overlooks the valley and is perfect for sunrise coffee or sunset photos. The spacious gravel circular driveway provides plenty of room for multiple vehicles and offers simple, level parking. Nights were peacefully quiet, with only the sounds of the woods around you. The paved road network above and around the property makes for great short hikes and even better sunset views. A firepit, available WiFi, and open sky complete the experience. Highly recommended for anyone seeking solitude, scenery, and Smoky Mountain magic. We will definitely be back soon.

D

David

November 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Creekside Park - w/ Wifi!

This campground was very easy to find and right off Rt. 26. Probably the quickest access we've ever had. The temps got cold, and David was great about warning that my water hose might freeze up. It was pretty quiet at the campground, I never got the chance to speak with any of the other campers. We were there visiting relatives for Thanksgiving and this fit the bill perfectly.

C

Cam

November 2025

36 ft Class A

With pets

1 night at Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

Great spot with a view as all have mentioned! I got in at night which i would bot recommend with a 36foot pusher. Thankfully John gave really good detailed instructions which made my arrival flawless!

B

Brittany

November 2025

1 night at Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

The Artist Studio was the perfect spot to stay on a solo road trip from Eastern Virginia to Nashville. The property was stunning and the studio was clean & cozy. Outstanding location 10 min from downtown Johnson City. The host, Pat, left delicious baked goods in the fridge of the studio. My highlight of the stay was enjoying a fresh baked good & coffee in the sun room overlooking the pond. Highly recommend!

J

Jacqueline

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Mountain Paradise

Incredible views and magical sunset! We stayed in the camper spot with our truck camper. Didn't get to explore the rest of the property but definitely recommend.

Brittney

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Far Flung Farm

Had an awesome time getting to hangout and just be at the farm. Perfect place to use my roof top tent for the first time. Beautiful setting. Heard two different owls and watched the sunrise.

T

Tammy

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Far Flung Farm

This place is truly breathtaking! The site is level ground with a creek surrounded by mountains. They have great fire pits and the hosts were so incredibly kind and fun! They helped me build a nice fire and they also offer packets to throw in the fire for colored flames, which I was really excited about! They also brought me a cornhole set up that you can order with your booking. I will defietly be back..maybe this trip. You can truly get a sense of mountain life here. I loved it!!

W

William

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

Our stay at John's place at Sunset ridge was wonderful. Very private and quiet with a beautiful view of the mountains and, yes, sunsets. Easy in and out with room for two campers if you want to have a friend join. We highly recommend this site. When I asked for local suggestions they shared a great list. Our only regret is that we could not stay longer.

Nick

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

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

K

Kelly

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

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

J

John

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Highland Cow Off-Grid Treehouse

We enjoyed our stay the cabin is beautiful. The host are amazing. The mini Highlands are definitely the favorite of the trip. They enjoyed being groomed and petted and loved on. Look forward to a possible return trip in the spring.

B

Blue

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Paradise

The view is beautiful as everybody else said. There's also plenty of space and he was nice enough to leave behind a decent pack of logs for the campfire. There are a few things that some people might consider downsides that I didn't see listed in the reviews. Though it isn't busy, the campsite is pretty close to the road. Maybe 30ft or so. While I was there, one of the neighbors happened to be doing some construction well into the night and two neighbors have pretty persistent outside dogs. The owner (I'm guessing) showed up during one of the days to do some construction on a cabin he's building a little bit further down the hill (great spot for a cabin). Though he left around sundown. Again, beautiful site and I'm greatful to have spent the weekend there, just wanted to share some details.